Manitoba Blast n' Cast: The Arrival

by
posted on May 23, 2015
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
blast_cast_1.jpg

We cover our fair share of adventure hunts here at American Hunter, and you'd be hard-pressed to find a North American adventure that rates quite like an fly-in bear hunt. That's what I'll be up to over the holiday weekend and into the early stages of next week, as I journey to a small island Eagle Nest Lake in Manitoba, Canada.

Our prey? Black bears, hopefully big ones. I'm told that the shorelines surrounding the lake are home to some big ol' bruins, and with luck I'll put a hurting on one before I re-board the float plane and start trekking south again next Thursday. I've never harvested—or, for that matter, hunted—a bear before, so suffice to say I'm stoked.

That's not the entirety of my itinerary, though. On top of the fly-in bear angle, the trip is an old school blast and cast. We'll be fishing the lake during the day, before regrouping and getting after the bears in the afternoon/evening. Walleye, northern pike and smallmouth bass are expected to be plentiful, and should serve as a lively start to the day. Should I just go ahead and stuff a catch or two into my pockets for the bear hunt?

Federal Premium and Savage Arms are playing host to the bear side of things, while Ugly Stik is showing off some of its latest wares during the fishing hours. Today's highlight was boarding the float plane, pictured above, and finishing our journey to Eagle Nest Resort. The group rallied in Winnipeg, before driving a couple hours to our pick up spot. Another first, for me.

Stay tuned throughout the coming week for regular updates!

Latest

W H2026 02 F RED STAG IMG 2426
W H2026 02 F RED STAG IMG 2426

Scotland Stag Hunt: A Proper Stalk

“That it [deer-stalking] is a chase which throws all our other field-sports far in the back-ground, and, indeed, makes them appear wholly insignificant, no one, who has been initiated in it, will attempt to deny.” – William Scrope, The Art Of Deer-Stalking

New for 2026: Browning Trail Cameras Defender Pro Scout Max HD Solar

Built for long-term performance, Browning Trail Cameras has added the Defender Pro Scout Max HD Solar to its 2026 lineup.

#SundayGunday: Burris Fullfield 3-12x42

On this week's #SundayGunday, we’re checking out the Burris Fullfield 3-12x42mm. While the Fullfield line encompasses a whole range of magnifications and objective lens sizes, this one appeals as an excellent balance of features for hunters facing almost any scenario in the field. Learn more about it in this exclusive video.

Restoring Hunting Rights: How a DOI Proposal Could Benefit Alaska’s Hunters

The U.S. Department of the Interior’s (DOI) has proposed restoring state-aligned hunting regulations in Alaska’s national preserves marks a significant shift toward reducing federal overreach and empowering local hunters.

AI, Robots and the Future of Conservation

Is the future filled with AI robots using facial recognition to check your hunting license? Will a cloud of “smart” drones launch on opening day? And why can’t hunters buy one of those robotic mules designed for the Marine Corps to haul big game out of a wilderness? If you've ever wondered about any of the above, check out this latest piece from our own Guy Sagi.

Turkey Tactics: Scout Now for Spring Gobblers

Want to find success this spring? Get on the ground now and start scouting for those springtime Toms.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.