A trip to Smith Bay Camp is a true wilderness experience. Located on the remote waters of Lake Kipawa, our boat-access camp offers exceptional fishing in a beautiful northern setting. To help you prepare, we’ve put together a recommended packing list to ensure you are comfortable and ready to enjoy your time on the water.

Because we are in a remote area of northern Quebec, it is important to arrive prepared with personal items, clothing for changing weather conditions, and your fishing gear.

A printable version of the information below is available here.

Clothing & Personal Gear

Weather in northern Quebec can change quickly. Even during the summer months, mornings and evenings can be cool.

Recommended items include:

  • Layered clothing (t-shirts, long sleeves, sweaters or hoodies)
  • Warm jacket or insulated coat
  • Rain jacket or waterproof shell
  • Comfortable pants or outdoor trousers
  • Extra socks
  • Hat or cap
  • Warm hat (especially early or late season)
  • Comfortable footwear or hiking shoes
  • Boat shoes or waterproof boots
  • Pajamas or comfortable cabin wear

Fishing Gear

Lake Kipawa is well known for walleye, northern pike, and lake trout. Anglers typically bring their own gear and tackle.

Recommended fishing equipment:

  • Medium-light to medium spinning rod and reel
  • Medium or heavier rod for pike and trout
  • Assorted jigs (chartreuse, pink, orange, black, white)
  • Soft plastics and twister tails
  • Crankbaits and minnow-style lures
  • Spoons for lake trout
  • Leaders (especially for pike)
  • Needle-nose pliers
  • Hook remover
  • Small tackle box
  • Landing gloves (optional)

If you prefer, you may also bring:

  • Portable fish finder
  • Extra line
  • Spare rods

Forget something or need something local?

Personal Items

Guests should bring their own personal necessities.

Suggested items include:

  • Toiletries
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Shampoo and soap
  • Towels and washcloths
  • Prescription medications
  • Personal first aid items
  • Headlamp or flashlight
  • Phone charger

Bug & Sun Protection

Being surrounded by wilderness means sharing the environment with insects during certain times of the year.

Recommended items:

  • Insect repellent
  • Bug jacket or bug hat
  • Lightweight long-sleeve shirts
  • Sunscreen
  • Sun hat or cap
  • Sunglasses
  • Lip balm

Food & Drinks

Smith Bay Camp operates on a housekeeping (European) plan, which means guests bring their own food and beverages.

Recommended items:

  • Groceries for the duration of your stay
  • Snacks for fishing trips
  • Coffee (percolator) and tea
  • Cooking oil or condiments
  • Fryer oil
  • Paper towels
  • Beverages of your choice
  • Cooler for transporting food
  • Water - there is running water but it is untreated and not recommended for drinking

Each cabin is equipped with a full kitchen including refrigerator, stove, and basic cookware.

If travelling lighter is your plan, or you want to pick up some last minute items, here are some stores along your route that should have what you need.

Grocery

Optional Items

These items are not required but many guests find them useful:

  • Camera or binoculars
  • Portable speaker
  • Deck of cards or board games
  • Books
  • Folding lawn chair
  • Small daypack for boat trips
  • Sleeping bag

Important Documents

Don’t forget the essentials for travel:

  • Valid photo ID
  • Fishing license (Quebec)
  • Border documentation if traveling from the United States
  • Booking confirmation

A Final Note

Smith Bay Camp is a peaceful and remote place where guests come to relax, fish, and enjoy the beauty of northern Quebec. Preparing properly will help ensure you can focus on what matters most—great fishing, quiet waters, and time well spent in the wilderness.

If you have any questions about what to bring, please feel free to contact us before your trip. We’re always happy to help guests prepare for their stay.