The White Iron Chain of lakes offers the fisherman a choice of four lakes with over 6,000 acres of some of the best world class fishing. All of the lakes in the chain have a wide variety of structure: reefs, rock piles, wild rice in the bays, islands, and drop-offs.
Deer Ridge Resort is located on 670 acre Garden Lake, famous for its smallmouth bass and crappie fishing. Looking for a trophy northern pike for the living room wall? Just a short boat ride from Garden Lake to 1,328 acre Farm Lake and you are now in some of the best northern pike water in the state. Head west from Farm Lake through silver rapids and you are now in the 3,649 grand lake of White Iron. If walleye is your choice of fish White Iron will serve you right with consistent fish in 5-8lbs range. Looking for a true wilderness lake then 618 acre South Farm Lake is the one. Set inside of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area South Farm Lake is one of a few lakes open in the BWCA to motorized water craft (25 hp limitation). BWCA day use motor permits are required and only a few are issued each day which keep the fishing pressure very low. We can help you with getting a South Farm permit, but should be done well in advance as permits are very limited.
We specialize in planning fishing adventures to fit your needs. We will mark out on a lake map hot spots and help you with choosing the right gear. We have a well equipped tackle and bait shop located in our lodge.
If you choose to hire a guide to get you started, Deer Ridge Resort and Basswood Trails Guide Service have teamed up to offer you the best in Northwood’s fishing. Fishing with us is not only a trip, it’s a learning experience. You will learn how to locate and catch many species of fish. We encourage you to ask questions. What you learn can help you be more successful for many fishing trips to come. We recommend reserving our guide service in advance.