Sandy Haven Camp http://ontariofishingcamp.com

A real camp isn’t just built with lumber, docks, boats and motors. It’s built with blood, sweat, tears and uncountable hours of labor. The most important part is never seen by the people that come to enjoy it. That part is having a group of old friends who somehow know how to fix anything, build everything, and turn complete disasters into good stories by sunset. The kind of crew that can rebuild a carb on a piece of 2x10, straighten a bent dock with a chain and a tractor, wire a generator in the rain, and still have time to sit around the fire arguing about the “right” way to do it. A camp without those friends is just property…with them, it a place where things always get figured out, nothing stays broken for long and you always have great food and lots of laughs.
Thank you, just doesn’t cut it. There’s no possible way I could do this without you guys.

After a warm dry week and the feeding rivers flowing high. This was yesterday’s (Sunday April 26th) satellite pic. Even though I believe Lake Nipissing will officially be “ice off” on May 4th. It will be crossable Sturgeon River to Sandy Island a few days earlier. Tuesday is calling for rain and a pretty good south wind that should break up the remaining pack ice. Wednesday we’ll go have a look. is here.

This isn’t a great satellite pic however you can see the French River is mostly open from Dokis to Lake Nipissing. Historically that means Lake Nipissing will be crossable from Sturgeon River to Sandy Island in 2 weeks. May the 4th be with you. See you on Sandy.

Happy New Year 2026!!! Thank you to our Sandy Haven family and friends for your love and support, wishing you all a year filled with happiness, prosperity and good health.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all our friends and family. Wishing you all a safe and happy holiday.

Happy Thanksgiving to all of our American friends and family. Hope you all have a great holiday.

Just so everyine is aware and if you were wondering if there is a qualification for water taxi and fishing charter services…there is

If you’re operating a water taxi service or fishing charter on Lake Nipissing or the French River, a Small Vessel Operator Proficiency (SVOP) certificate is not just recommended—it’s required by law.
This certification ensures you’re trained in navigation, safety, and emergency procedures for commercial vessels under 5 gross tonnage or carrying up to 12 passengers. Whether you’re ferrying guests across the lake or leading fishing trips on the river, the SVOP proves you have the knowledge and skills to operate safely and responsibly—keeping your passengers, your reputation, and your business protected on the water.
Also if there is ever an accident and you’re not certified your insurance will not cover you, they “assume” if you’re suppling the service you’re abiding by the law.
This initially came to law and was mandated in 2009
If you’re running either of these services you need your SVOP, SDV-BS and ROC-M now.
If you would like any info feel free to reach out. I’d be happy to point you in the right direction.
There will be courses in Sturgeon Falls this October. Space is limited.

Happy Canada Day