Guides & Outfitter Spotlight: Ely Fishing Guide Company
Early October usually finds northern Minnesota’s border lakes in classic fall mode—fish feeding hard ahead of winter. But with this year’s lingering warmth, the bite around Ely was in transition. That’s where local pro Troy Vega of Ely Fishing Guide Company came in, helping us navigate the in-between conditions on legendary Basswood Lake.
Basswood’s reputation precedes it—trophy pike, plentiful walleyes, and smallmouth bass fishing that makes it a destination lake. Reached via the Moose Lake chain, it offers that rare mix of Boundary Waters solitude and small-boat accessibility. From our first meeting in Ely to the last fish in the net, Troy delivered the kind of seamless, professional experience that defines a top-tier guide.
We spent the morning chasing walleyes before shifting our focus to big pike later in the day, only to return to walleye fishing to close the day. Despite strong winds and stubborn patterns, Troy’s adaptability kept rods bent and spirits high. He adjusted tactics quickly, moved efficiently, and shared insights that revealed a lifetime of local experience. Watching him work the conditions was a master class in on-the-water problem-solving.
Everything about the operation spoke of professionalism and pride—from pre-trip communication with Rob, the owner, to perfectly rigged St. Croix rods waiting in the boat. There was no wasted motion, no uncertainty—just a smooth, client-centered approach that made the day effortless and memorable.
GTC brought along our youngest contributor—an eight-year-old with a love of fishing—Troy’s patience, enthusiasm and communication style connected with him and the outing is surely etched as an enduring, lifelong memory. That personal touch, combined with deep knowledge and top-notch equipment, is exactly why Ely Fishing Guide Company is a no brainer recommendation for us.
If you’re headed for the Ely area, put them at the top of your list. Professional, personable, and dedicated to creating unforgettable days on the water, they represent guided fishing at its very best.