Hatchet Lake Lodge
Saskatchewan, Canada
Accommodation
Fly-In Lodge
Season
June – September
Species
Northern Pike, Lake Trout, Walleye, Arctic Grayling
Fishing Style
Spinning & Fly Fishing
Hatchet Lake Lodge 🇨🇦
Hatchet Lake Lodge is a remote fly-in fishing lodge on a private island in northern Saskatchewan. Anglers have access to Hatchet Lake, three nearby portage lakes and a wider network of remote fly-out waters, with northern pike, lake trout, walleye and Arctic grayling forming the core of the fishing program. Direct charter flights from Saskatoon land on the lodge’s private runway, removing the need for additional floatplane or road transfers. With a limited number of anglers, experienced guides, private log cabins and a well-equipped main lodge, Hatchet Lake combines productive multi-species fishing with a comfortable wilderness setting.
The fishing at Hatchet Lake Lodge is centred on four species: northern pike, lake trout, walleye and Arctic grayling. Anglers who catch all four during their stay complete the Hatchet Lake Grand Slam. The variety of lakes, rivers, rapids, bays and deeper structure allows guides to adjust each day according to weather, water temperature and the preferred species of the anglers.
Northern pike are the main attraction for many anglers. Early in the season, pike can be found in shallow bays as they recover from spawning and take advantage of warmer water. As summer progresses, they move towards deeper weed beds, drop-offs and feeding areas. Lake trout also begin the season in relatively shallow water around sand flats and rocky reefs before moving deeper as surface temperatures rise. Walleye are targeted around deeper holes, current, reefs and submerged structure, while Arctic grayling are generally found in flowing water and around rapids.
Both fly and conventional tackle can be used. Anglers may cast spoons, plugs, jigs, soft plastics and large flies depending on the species and location. Lodge fishing takes place on Hatchet Lake and three nearby portage lakes, while optional fly-out days provide access to a further selection of isolated lakes. A traditional shore lunch is prepared by the guide during many fishing days using fresh fish from the morning’s catch.
Fishing boats are equipped with 50-horsepower Yamaha four-stroke outboards, Garmin GPS electronics, satellite phones and personal flotation devices. Anglers may bring their own tackle or use lodge rods and reels, subject to availability. The lodge also has a tackle shop carrying lures selected for the local fishing.
Anglers stay in private log cabins set around the lodge’s island property. Cabins range from one to four bedrooms and combine a traditional northern lodge design with practical modern comforts. Each cabin has private bedrooms, hot and cold running water, electric heat, comfortable bedding, a lounge area with a wood-burning stove and Starlink Wi-Fi.
The main lodge contains the dining room, lounge, bar, library and tackle shop. Breakfast is served before fishing, with most anglers leaving the dock at around 8:00 am. Lunch is usually prepared beside the lake, followed by further fishing through the afternoon. In the evening, anglers return for appetizers, drinks and a chef-prepared dinner.
Additional facilities include walking trails, canoes, kayaks, paddleboards and a small exercise room. Starlink Wi-Fi is available throughout the main lodge and cabins, although the remote location still provides a quiet and relaxed atmosphere away from the water.
Hatchet Lake Lodge is located in far northern Saskatchewan, approximately 128 kilometres south of the Northwest Territories border. There is no road access to the lodge.
The standard journey begins at Saskatoon International Airport. From Saskatoon, anglers take a scheduled charter flight directly to Hatchet Lake Lodge’s private 6,000-foot gravel runway. The runway is only a few minutes from the lodge, so there is no connecting floatplane flight or lengthy ground transfer after landing.
International anglers should normally arrive in Saskatoon at least one day before the scheduled charter. A hotel night in Saskatoon may therefore be required before the trip, as well as after the return charter if onward flight times do not connect comfortably. Charter timings and baggage instructions are provided before travel.
Private charter flights can also be arranged for custom groups. Anglers travelling in their own aircraft may use the lodge runway with prior permission and advance coordination.
Rates Per Angler:
Starting from $6,250.00 per person
What’s Included:
- Four nights of accommodation at Hatchet Lake Lodge
- Four days of guided fishing
- Scheduled return charter flights between Saskatoon and the lodge
- Fishing on Hatchet Lake and nearby lodge-accessed waters
- Use of lodge boats and safety equipment
- Access to lodge rods and reels, subject to availability
- All meals at the lodge
- Traditional shore lunches during fishing days
- Non-alcoholic lodge hospitality
- Use of lodge facilities and amenities
- Starlink Wi-Fi
What’s Not Included:
- Flights or other travel to and from Saskatoon
- Hotels and meals in Saskatoon
- Saskatchewan fishing licence
- Optional fly-out fishing by floatplane
- Personal lures, flies and terminal tackle
- Purchases from the lodge tackle shop
- Premium wine, cocktails and bar purchases
- Gratuities for guides and lodge staff
- Travel and emergency evacuation insurance
Day 1: Fly from Saskatoon to Hatchet Lake Lodge
Meet the scheduled charter at Saskatoon International Airport and fly directly to the lodge’s private runway. After arrival, anglers are transferred the short distance to the lodge, shown to their cabins and introduced to the guides. Fishing begins once equipment and travel logistics have been completed.
Days 2 to 4: Full Fishing Days
After breakfast, anglers leave the dock for a full day of guided fishing on Hatchet Lake or one of the nearby portage lakes. An optional fly-out can be arranged to reach more distant water. Lunch is usually prepared by the guide beside the lake before fishing continues through the afternoon. Anglers return to the lodge for appetizers and dinner.
Day 5: Final Fishing and Departure
Depending on charter timing, anglers may have a final fishing session before returning to the lodge, packing and transferring to the runway. The scheduled charter then returns directly to Saskatoon International Airport.
Exact arrival, departure and fishing times depend on the charter schedule and flying conditions.
What level of fishing experience is required?
Hatchet Lake is suitable for both experienced anglers and those taking their first guided fishing trip. Guides can adjust the species, locations and techniques to match the abilities and priorities of the anglers. Previous casting experience is useful, but it is not essential.
Are rods and reels provided?
A selection of spinning, baitcasting and specialist rod-and-reel outfits is available at the lodge. Availability is limited, so anglers planning to use lodge equipment should request it in advance. Personal lures and terminal tackle can be brought from home, while additional tackle can be purchased at the lodge shop.
What is the difference between lodge fishing, portage fishing and fly-out fishing?
Hatchet Lake can be fished directly from the lodge. The three portage lakes are reached by boat and a short walk, providing access to quieter and lightly fished water. Fly-out fishing involves travelling by floatplane to a more distant lake for the day and is normally arranged as an optional addition.
Do anglers need a fishing licence?
Yes. Anglers need a valid Saskatchewan fishing licence. Instructions for purchasing the correct licence are provided before travel, and it should be arranged before boarding the charter flight.
What is the luggage allowance?
The scheduled charter has a strict luggage allowance of 50 pounds per angler. Soft-sided luggage is recommended, and anglers should avoid packing unnecessary equipment. Rods and heavier fishing items should be discussed before travel.
What clothing should anglers bring?
Northern weather can change quickly, even during summer. Anglers should bring layered clothing, warm outerwear, a hat, gloves and a good-quality two-piece rain suit. Polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent and non-slip footwear for the boats are also important.
Is Wi-Fi available?
Yes. Starlink Wi-Fi is available in the main lodge and all cabins. Anglers can also use Wi-Fi calling where supported by their mobile provider.
