Trip Planning & Travel Information

Getting Here, Border Crossing, and Where to Stay

Planning a trip to the Northwest Angle is different than most fishing destinations. Because of the unique geography, travel routes, border requirements, and lodging choices can have a real impact on how smooth your trip is.

This page walks through how to get here, how border crossing works, and how we help guests choose the right place to stay.

If you ever have questions, we’re happy to help you plan the best route and lodging setup for your trip.

Getting Here

Getting to the Northwest Angle

The Northwest Angle is part of Minnesota, but most guests who drive will travel through Canada and then re-enter the United States at the Angle. There are also options to remain in Minnesota the entire time by water or air.

01

Drive Through Canada (Most Common)

  1. Drive to a staffed U.S.–Canada border crossing and enter Canada
  2. Travel through Manitoba toward the Northwest Angle
  3. Upon arrival at the Angle, you must check back into the United States

Details on U.S. re-entry are outlined below.

02

Stay in Minnesota the Entire Time (No Canada Driving)

By Water (Summer)
  • Drive to Baudette, Minnesota
  • Travel by boat to the Angle area

Passenger service is available from Baudette through Lake of the Woods Passenger Service.

  • Fly into a regional airport, rent a vehicle, then continue to Baudette or the Angle
  • From there, continue by boat, tracked vehicle, or ice road depending on season
  • Float planes may fly directly to the lake when conditions allow
Flights & Airports

Flying In

Most Common Airport

Fly in, rent a car, and drive toward the Angle

Other Regional Airports

From these locations, guests typically rent a car and continue toward Baudette or the Angle area.

Crossing the Border

Border Crossing Requirements

What Every Traveler Needs

  • Passport card
  • Enhanced driver’s license
  • Trusted Traveler cards

Traveling With Children

  • A signed consent letter
  • Any applicable custody paperwork
U.S. Re-Entry

Re-Entering the U.S. at the Northwest Angle

When you arrive at the Angle, you must check in with U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Easiest Option: CBP ROAM App

Before Your Trip

When You Arrive

Tip: Screenshot or save the confirmation email.

No Service or Prefer a Kiosk?

CBP iPad kiosks are commonly available at:

If the app is not working, use a kiosk or call CBP using the number listed in the ROAM instructions.

Checking Into Canada

Heading Back South: Checking Into Canada First

When leaving the Northwest Angle by road, you must report to Canada before driving through Canada.

How to Report

You will receive a report number. Write it down and keep it with you.

Have This Information Ready

  • Full name
  • Date of birth
  • Citizenship
  • Travel document type and number

Do not unload and do not let passengers wander until you are cleared.

Important Border Rules

Need Help Choosing the Best Route?

Tell us:

  • Where you’re coming from
  • Your travel dates
  • Whether you’re driving or flying

We’ll help you choose the best route and walk you through the border steps.

Where to Stay

Where to Stay During Your Backcountry Guide Co. Trip

We help guests choose the right lodging based on trip dates, group size, and the type of fishing experience they’re looking for.

Important:

If you’re planning lodging first or aren’t sure where to stay, we recommend contacting us before booking so we can help point you in the right direction.

Lodging Considerations

Why Lodging Matters More Than Most People Realize

The Northwest Angle and Lake of the Woods area offer island resorts, mainland access points, and private rentals. While many locations offer fishing, where you stay can directly affect:

Because every Backcountry Guide Co. trip is customized, we strongly recommend coordinating lodging with your guide.

Already Looking at Lodging? Start Here.

If you’re researching or planning to book lodging before selecting a guide, contact us first. We can:

Lodging Options

Lodging Options We Commonly Coordinate With

We regularly work with guests staying in:

Exact recommendations depend on time of year, ice conditions, group size, and target species.

Important Note

Backcountry Guide Co. does not own or operate lodging and is not affiliated with any specific resort or rental property. Lodging recommendations are provided as a courtesy based on experience and trip logistics.

Our Lodging Process

How Lodging Coordination Works

Some guests book first; others contact us while planning lodging.

Dates, group size, species, and travel preferences.

Lodging options that align with your guided trip.

Guests book directly with the resort or property owner.

trip Plan

Planning Your Stay?

If lodging is your first step or you’re unsure what option makes the most sense, reach out and we’ll help guide you in the right direction.