This is a list of information I have gathered or, answers to questions that have been posted to the Isle Royale Info Web Board, the Isle Royale Mailing List or, asked of me personally.
    It is in the form of questions, then, an answer.  I have tried to categorize the questions into topic sections.  If you have a particular question, look for a topic, then go directly to it.  If you are looking for general information, just scroll down through all the information.  It should answer most of your questions.
    It is meant to be in a form that is easily printable.  All the links give the full URL so you can reference them after printing.  Make sure you check the Links page for a complete listing of all of these links and additional detailed links.  If you have any questions that aren't answered, go to the Isle Royale Info Web Board and post them there.  There are some very knowledgable people there.  If you have additional information you wish to share, email me at:mike@isleroyale.info.

Where is Isle Royale?
It is in Lake Superior approximately 25 miles east of Minnesota and 55 miles west of the Keewenaw Peninsula in Michigan.  For a map showing it's general location, you can pull up a map I made at: www.isleroyale.info/IRareamap.jpg

What is Isle Royale?
Isle Royale is a National National park.  For full information, go to the Isle Royale National Park site at: www.nps.gov/isro/index.htm

When is the busiest time on the island?
The most popular months are July and August.  For a chart showing the number of visitors by month over the last 10 years, I've created a Visitation Spreadsheet page at: www.isleroyale.info/visitors.htm.

How many people go the Isle Royale?
The average yearly attendance is around 22,000 people.  It is the least visited national park but, has the most repeat visitors.  For exact numbers from 1990-2000, go to a Visitation Spreadsheet page at: www.isleroyale.info/visitors.htm.

When is the park open?
The park is open from April 15 to October 31.  Though the boats only run from the beginning of May to the beginning of October.  To see the most current schedules and links go to "Transportation" further down in this FAQ.

How much does it cost to go to the island?
The National Park Service charges $4.00 per day user fee.  It is free for kids 11 and under.  There is also a season pass available for $50.  If you will be there 13 or more nights, then it is worth it.  To get a season pass, call the park headquarters at: (906) 482-0984.  The boats cost different amounts depending on which boat.  For information and links go to "Transportation" further down in this FAQ.

Is the water on the island safe to drink?
No.  Rock Harbor and Windigo both have potable water.  Beside there, all surface lake and stream water should be considered contaminated with natural parasites.  Water needs to be purified or, passed through a 0.4 micron or less water filter.  It can also be boiled but, should be at a rolling boil for at least 3 minutes which requires fuel, time and doesn't taste too good.  If you are going into the back country, you should bring a purifier and/or filter.  For details, go to the Park Service information page on water at: www.nps.gov/isro/drinking.htm

How do I pay my park user fees?
User fees are collected when you make your boat reservations.  If you are going by a private boat, you pay your user fee when you register at Windigo or Rock Harbor.

How do I get to the island?
You can get to the island one of five ways (besides finding someone with a boat to take you there).
1-Houghton, Michigan, Ranger III - You can take the Ranger from Houghton, Michigan.  It is run by the National Park Service and is a 165' vessel.  It runs from approximately June 1 till September 12.  It goes from Houghton to Rock Harbor on Tuesdays and Fridays then, Rock Harbor to Houghton on Wednesdays and Fridays.  It costs approximately $48 for adults and $24 for kids 11 and under.  It is a 6 hour boat ride. For detailed information, go to the National Park Services web site at: www.nps.gov/isro or, call: 906-482-0984
2-Houghton, Michigan, Seaplane - Seaplane service has been started again after not being available 2002-2003.  Royale Air will fly between Houghton County Airport and the Park from May 18 through September 15. The Cessna 205 amphibious aircraft, capable of carrying five passengers in addition to the pilot, will fly on-call up to six days a week, weather permitting.  For more information or to make reservations, contact:
Royale Air Service, Inc., P.O. Box 15184, Duluth, MN 55815
Website: www.royaleairservice.com E-mail: RoyaleAirService@aol.com
Toll Free Phone: 877-FLY-ISLE (359-4753) / Toll Free Fax: 877-359-4754
2004 rates are $160 one way and $230 round trip.  The trip on the previous servce took approximately 50 minutes.  It could land at either Rock Harbor or Windigo.
Further information is avaialble at the NPS site at: www.nps.gov/isro/Transportation/seaplane.htm
3-Copper Harbor, Michigan, Isle Royale Queen III - You can take The Isle Royale Queen from Copper Harbor, Michigan.  It is run by the concession service and is a 81' vessel.  It runs from approximately mid-May till the end of September.  It costs approximately $42 for adults and $21 for kids 1-11.  It is a 4.5 hour boat ride.  It's schedule varies based on the season.  For the exact schedule and detailed information, go to the Isle Royale Line web site at: www.isleroyale.com or, call: 906-289-4437.
4-Grand Portage, Minnesota, Voyageur II - The Voyageur II runs from approximately mid-May till the end of of October.  It's schedule changes based on the time of the year but, mostly, it runs from Grand Portage to Windigo then Rock Harbor on mondays, wednesdays and saturdays then, returns to Windigo and Grand Portage on tuesdays, thursdays and sundays .  It costs approximately $49 one way and takes about 2 hours to travel the 22 miles to Windigo.  It then leaves Windigo and goes along the north shore to Rock Harbor where it overnights.  The following day it travels the south shore to Windigo then back to Grand Portage.  It is possible to be dropped off at various docks along the way but, you must make reservations first.  For complete information, go to the Grand Portage Isle Royale Transportation site at: www.grand-isle-royale.com or, call: (715) 392-2100.  If taking the Voyageur II, there is parking available at the dock but, it cost $3.00 per day which you pay upon your return.
5-Grand Portage, Minnesota, SS Wenonah - The Wenonah runs from approximately June 9 to September 16.  It runs daily from Grand Portage to Windigo and back.  It cost approximately $34 one way for adults and kids ages 4-11 cost $17.  It takes 3 hours to travel the 22 miles.  For complete information, go to the Grand Portage Isle Royale Transportation site at: www.grand-isle-royale.com or, call: (715) 392-2100.

Do I need to make reservations for the boat(s)?
Reservations are essential.  Especially during the busiest times of the year.  You might try and call at the last minute but, to plan a trip like this, you should plan well in advance and buy your tickets or, at least call to make sure there are space left.  I personally, wouldn't go without reservations.

Where can I stay in Houghton?
Check out the Houghton web site at: www.cityofhoughton.com . Or, the Hancock web site at: www.cityofhancock.com (Hancock is right across a river from Houghton).

Where can I stay in Copper Harbor?
Hotels: Check out the Copper Harbor web site at: www.copperharbor.org. I can personally recommend the King Copper Motel right by the boat dock.  Their phone number is: 800-833-2470 or 906-289-4214.  Their web site is at: www.exploringthenorth.com/kingcop/kingcop.html.
Camping: There is camping at Fort Wilkins State Park Campground. Their web site is at: www.sos.state.mi.us/history/museum/musewil or, call:  906-289-4215.

Where can I stay in Grand Portage?
Hotels: Check out the Grand Portage web site at: www.grandportagemn.com.  I can personally recommend the Grand Portage Lodge and Casino.  Their web site is at: www.grandportagemn.com/gplc.html or, call: 218-475-2401 or, 800-543-1384.  As of 2001 it was $79/night for double occupancy.  There were rooms available right by the dock at The Melby's but, they have sold the property including the hotel to the Grand Portage tribe and, as of now (2001), the rooms are no longer available.  I have been told of another hotel north of Grand Portage near the Canadian border.  It is called "Ryden's Cafe" and their phone number is 218-475-2330.  Per Don R., "it is very economical" with "loads of ambiance" and "good for a hearty breakfast".
Camping: For camping, C.R. Magney State Park is about 15 miles south of the Grand Portage Marina.  The camping is reasonable, pretty and, they even have showers.  Per Don R. "if you go there, be sure to hike up to see the magnificent 'Devil's Kettle' waterfall, one of the wonders of the North Shore".  There phone number is: 218-387-3039.  It is also possible to camp at the marina but, since it has been sold, I'm not sure of the future status.  I saw people camped there in May, 2001 though.

Where can I stay in Grand Marais?
Check out the Grand Marais Chamber of Commerce site at: www.grandmaraismn.com or, call: 888-922-5000

Where can I stay in Thunder Bay?
Check out the Thunder Bay, Ontario site at: www.city.thunder-bay.on.ca.

How far is it from Wherever to Grand Portage, Houghton, Copper Harbor?
To find out the exact mileage, I would suggest a site called Mapquest at: www.mapquest.com.  Here are a few of the ones I know:
Chicago area to Grand Portage = 600 miles
Detroit area to Grand Portage = 850 miles
Detroit Area to Copper Harbor = 600 miles

Once on the island, is it possible to taxi to points on the island?
Yes, the Voyageur II circumnavigates the island every other day and will make certain stops if you make reservations ahead of time.  For detailed information on their schedule go to the Grand Portage Isle Royale Transportation web site at: www.grand-isle-royale.com or, call: (715) 392-2100.  Also, the National Park Service provides taxi service from Rock Harbor to both McCargoe Cove and Siskiwit Bay.  This service is only available part of the year though.  For detailed information, go to the National Park Services web site at: www.nps.gov/isro or, call: 906-482-0984

It says on the Voyager II site that if your backpack weighs over 40 pounds, you will be charged extra.  Is this true?
I have never seen them weigh anyone's pack but, according to Erica G., who works at the GPIR transportation office, they will weigh packs if they seem to be over 40 pounds.  "The reason for this change was that we have had people who 'significantly' take advantage of our not weighing the packs, and we are limited by the US Coast Guard as to how much weight our vessels can carry, including passengers, packs, etc.".  For complete information, go to the Grand Portage Isle Royale Transportation site at: www.grand-isle-royale.com or, call: (715) 392-2100.  I personally have never seen them weigh anyone's pack and I have seen some pretty big packs being brought over by people who were staying in one area fishing.  I think that's to prevent people from bringing over huge items in their pack (ie.table, kegs, etc.).  According to Don R., in May, 2001, they now charge an additional $27 for any pack weighing between 41-100 pounds (it used to be $.26 per pound).  As I say, I've never seen them weigh a pack and, I'd guess, the average pack weighs around 60 pounds.

How can I get from Thunder Bay to Grand Portage?
Per Captain Don Szczech, "You can get a taxi from Thunder Bay to drop and pick you up, I had customers do it in the past. Contact Lacey's Taxi or any other in Thunder Bay.  It's a lot easier than car rental.  Also, if you are staying in the Grand Portage Lodge, I have been told there is a shuttle available for guests.  I have not used it but there is a website for the shuttle at: www.httours.com/transportation.htm.

Can I drive my 16' boat to the island?
Per Captain Don Szczech, "There are days when you would have no problem at all. But on any of those given days, you could end up in some nasty weather. This past weekend, I saw more small boats at one time on the island than I've seen since early May. For example, Saturday was flat calm and very warm, early Sunday morning brought heavy rain and dense fog w/less than 1/8 mile visibility. There has been fog and wind since then. My point is, you would be forced to camp much longer than you would have planned because you can't get off the island. I run a 40' charter boat to the island from May to Nov. and several times each season I cancel trips due to weather. Oh, I'm sure if I had to I could get back and forth, but it wouldn't be any fun and border on unsafe, and my boat is as wide as yours is long. If you want to go, and you can and have a great time, make sure you plan for an extended stay or be ready to race back to the mainland well ahead of any forecasted inclement weather."

Are there stores/supply's available on the island?
There is a store in Windigo and Rock Harbor.  They are open from approximately June 6 to September 4.  They contain only the bare essentials and you will pay a premium of course.  Do not rely on the store to purchase anything.  They are best used to get something you forgot.  If you are using liquid fuel, the most common types may be purchased there.  If you are coming over on the seaplane, you may have to purchase your fuels on the island.  For detailed information, go to the National Park Services web site at: www.nps.gov/isro or, call: 906-482-0984.

Are there showers on the island?
There are pay showers at Rock Harbor and Windigo.  They are only open from approximately, Memorial Day to Labor Day.  At Rock Harbor a five minute shower will cost you $3.  You buy a token at the Rock Harbor store.  At Windigo, a six minute shower will cost you $1 in quarters. At the end of a long trip, it's worth the money.

Is there lodging available on the island?
The Rock Harbor Lodge is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.  It is a lodge with "American plan" hotel rooms (meals included).  There are also "house keeping" cabins.  Advance reservations are required.  The house keeping cabins have a stove, refrigerator, pans and plates etc.  For more information go to the Rock Harbor Lodge site at: www.isleroyaleresort.com.

Are there boats and canoes available on the island?
There are canoes and boats available for rent at Rock Harbor.  If you plan on getting one, it is best to make a reservation.  However, If you plan on portaging, keep in mind that the canoes available for rental are aluminum and they do not have yokes.

Are there washers and/or dryers available on the island?
There are both available at Rock Harbor and Windigo.  They are only available from approximately, Memorial Day to Labor Day.  At last report, they cost $3 for washer and $5 for a dryer.

Is there somewhere to store items while on the island?
There are storage lockers available at the stores in both Windigo and Rock Harbor for approximately $1 when they are open (see stores/supplies above).

How are the trails in the spring?
The trails can be extremely wet.  The low lying trails can be under water and/or muddy.  The higher trails can be very slippery with rain.  The trails may not be clear of fallen trees and debris.  In the springtime, plan a little extra time for hiking due to the conditions.  If hiking the Minong Ridge trail in the spring, you'll have to pay close attention to the trail as some of the markers may be missing in the spring and it's easy to lose your way.

Where are the most populated areas on the island?
The eastern end of the island tends to have more people on it at any given time.  The trail from Rock Harbor to Daisy Farm having the most.  The Greenstone Ridge trail seems to be the most populated trail of any distance.

Are there any bears on the island and what animals do I need to worry about taking my food?
There are no bears on the island.  And, no raccoon's for that matter.  The only animals you need to worry about are foxes and squirrels.  The fox are incorrigible. They will walk off with not only food but boots, dishes, clothes, anything they can pick up.  I once followed a fox and found a stash of everything from sandals to a canteen.  They are quite brave at the popular campgrounds because they are used to people (and some feed them). Please, do NOT feed them, they are wild animals.  As they say, a fed fox is a dead fox!  The squirrels are another thing to worry about.  They will climb into your backpack or, chew a hole through it in no time.  I hang my food on a tree branch right next to my tent and/or keep it all in "zip-loc" bags.

How many miles a day can the average person hike?
This depends on the person, the trail, the weather and numerous other variables.  I usually figure 2 miles per hour when planning a trip.  My actual average is about 2.5 to 2.7 miles per hour when counting only walking time.  I've found that measuring only the time you are walking is the best way to guestimate the distance you have covered.  This should be adjusted for the experience of the hiker.  Remember to include breaks.  Including breaks, I'd figure averaging from 1.7 to 2.0 miles per hour.  For a trail mileage chart, check out a Mileage Table at: www.isleroyale.info/IRmiles.htm.

Where can I get a map?
There are maps available at both stores on the island and, stores near the boat docks if they are open.  These are generally folded up topographic maps.  I like a plastic coated one made by "Trails Illustrated" because it is very durable and, it has the mileage between campgrounds written on it.  It is available through the Isle Royale Natural History Association at www.irnha.org and, most outdoors shops and web sites.  Another map that was recommended is the National Geographic Topographic.  On a recent trip, I have taken a GPS and found the milelages to be slightly longer than those marked on the maps I have.  So, based on this, don't be surprised if it's another half mile or so.

Are there fires allowed at the campgrounds and where?
Fires are only allowed in campgrounds with fire rings.  Campgrounds with fire rings are: Belle Isle, Caribou Island*, Chippewa Harbor, Duncan Bay, Duncan Narrows, Island Mine, Little Todd, Malone Bay, McCargoe Cove*, Siskiwit Bay* and Todd Harbor* (* indicates a community fire ring).

Are "twig" stoves allowed on the island?
Yes, self-contained "twig" burning stoves are allowed.  Be sure to not use on top of a flammable surface.  Also, dispose of ashes properly.

Is there water available at the campgrounds?
There is potable water at spigots only at Rock Harbor and Windigo.  At all of the designated campgrounds there is a source of water but, it need to be filtered or boiled. See "water" under  the "General Information" section of this FAQ for more details.

What do you do when you get your permit? Is your itinerary set in stone?
When you get your permit, they will ask you what you itinerary is.  They might suggest a different route based on the amount of people on that route or, suggest a days stay here or there to avoid overcrowding.  This is usually only an issue at the busiest time of year.  Your itinerary can vary from what you say.  You are only asked to adjust it on your permit before you turn it in at the end of the trip.  This is to help them keep track of traffic patterns and adjust their maintenance.

What kind of equipment do I need to bring?
General backpacking equipment.  For specific concerns like water, boots, etc.  See other places on this FAQ.  To see a sample, go to My Backpacking list at: www.posterityscloud.com/backpack/list.html, or, to see other peoples list, check out the Isle Royale National Park Web Ring at: www.isleroyale.info/mail.shtml.  If you are new to backpacking, there are hundreds of sites on the web or, check out books at the bookstore.

What kind of boots do I need to bring?
I think boots are one of the most important if not most important things.  Make sure whatever boots you bring are broken in. I like Goretex lined for the breath ability and I wear ankle high ones do to a previous ankle injury but, you may want high ones for the island because of the amount of rock and potential slippage.

What do I need to purify water?
A water purifier or a 4 micron or less filter is the recommended way to get water.  It is also possible to boil it but, this takes fuel and, doesn't taste very good.  See details under the "General Information" section of this FAQ for more details.

Will a cellular phone work on the island?
I have heard reports of them "occasionally" working but, more times then not, not working.  Someone from my group carried one and got through at Todd Harbor in the fall.

What kind of clothes do I need to bring?
The weather on the island can change quickly.  You need to be prepared for every possibility.  The best thing is to dress in layers so you can just keeping adding as needed.  To see a sample of clothes to bring, go to My Backpacking list at: www.posterityscloud.com/backpack/list.html, or, to see other peoples list, check out the Isle Royale National Park Web Ring at: http://www.isleroyale.info/mail.shtml

What temperatures and precipitation can I expect at this time of year or that time of year?
This is a graph I made based on the weather history for Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada.  I couldn't find any accurate info for Isle Royale proper but, this seems to be closest thing to it.  Based on experience, I would subtract about 1.5 degrees off the temperature and maybe, add about .5" to the precipitation.  This gives you a general idea of the cycle though.  The main thing to keep in mind on the island is, that, it is an island.  It is subject to the extremes of the averages very quickly.  Be prepared!

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Avg. High

16 F

20 F

32 F

47 F

60 F

68 F

75 F

73 F

63 F

51 F

35 F

21 F

Avg. Low

-6 F

-3 F

11 F

26 F

36 F

45 F

51 F

50 F

41 F

31 F

18 F

1 F

Mean

5 F

9 F

22 F

37 F

48 F

57 F

64 F

62 F

52 F

42 F

27 F

12 F

Avg.Precip.

1.3 "

1.0 "

1.6 "

1.9 "

2.7"

3.3 "

3.2 "

3.5 "

3.4 "

2.4 "

1.9 "

1.6 "

There is a place on the National Park Service site that give these same general numbers in more detail with percentage of sunshine, percentage of rainy days, etc.  I don't know where they got their information (there is no full time weather station on the island) but, it is quite detailed.  To check it out go to the National Park Service Climate Table at: www.nps.gov/isro/climtabl.htm.

What time is sunset at this time of year or that?
For a table of sunrise/sunset and moonrise/moonset for any place in North America go this site with Sun/Moon calculations at http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/RS_OneYear.html.

Has anyone used a weather radio and, how is the reception?
Per John I, "Just got back from canoeing from Belle Isle to Rock Harbor. Our weather radio was useless. But it probably would have been just as useless if we could get a weather report because the weather changed so frequently (4 layers to shorts and T-shirt and back multiple times a day). Don't bother with the radio!"
Per Uncle Lar, "Just came back. The rangers and the campground crews' walkie-talkies could be tuned to get the weather reports. Reception left a lot to be desired. I was able to get a day by day report from the workers in the park. I didn't take my weather radio and didn't miss it at all."

Where is the best place to see moose?
Moose can be seen in any parts of the island but, the areas that seem to have the most is around Feldtmann Lake, Washington Harbor and Chickenbone Lake.  It also depends on what time of year you go.  In the springtime, they seem to be more skittish and prone to run as soon as you are detected.  While, in the the fall, they seem to be more used to people and, have other things on their mind (the "rut").

Where is the best place to see wolves?
Nowhere!  Really, it would be a rare thing to see a wolf.  They know you're coming long before you would see them and, either leave or blend into the scenery.  I have never seen one but, imagine, I have walked right by one.  Consider yourself lucky if you hear them.  It is possible to see tracks and scat though.  They seem to be on the western side of the island more than the east during the summer.  Most likely due to the population being lower on that end.

How are the bugs at this time of year or, that?
You should be prepared for some breed of biting insect anytime between May through August.  It the spring, it can be a question of whether or not you hit a hatch.  In September, most of the insects have died off or, are very slow moving.  In the summertime, it can vary day to day and depends on where you are at.  The ridges are usually clear due to the wind but, the lower areas can be "a-buzz" with bugs.  For more bug details, go the the Isle Royale Bug Page at: www.nps.gov/isro/bugs.htm.

Is it possible to see the northern lights and when?
It is possible to see the lights at anytime but, they seem more prevalent in the fall.  Usually they are visible anywhere from 10:00 till 3:00 in the morning although, I have seen them right after the sun went down on a few occasions in the fall.  There is a site at the University of Alaska that monitors for events but, they can only predict for around 2-3 days in advance.  The site is at: www.gi.alaska.edu/predict.php3.

How many moose and wolves are on the island?
The latest Wolf and Moose study report can be found on the Isle Royale National park site at: www.nps.gov/isro/wolfmoos.htm.
For a excellent book on the study and the researcher who has been conducting it for the last 30 years, check out "The Wolfs of Isle Royale: A Broken Balance" by Rolf Peterson.  It provides great insight into the interactions on the island in an extremely fascinating way.  It is available through the Isle Royale Natural History Association at www.irnha.org.

Is there poison Ivy on the island?
Per Erica G., "there is poison ivy on the island, but I've never actually seen it. I know its there, however, because my sister got it all over her arms up there once several years ago. It isn't very common though. My dad said there never used to be any up there when he was little. Some hiker must have tracked it in on their equipment or clothing."

Are there any snakes on the island?
Garner snakes are quite common.  Yankee has reported seeing Northern Redbelly.

What inland lakes have fish and what kind?
Based on posts on the Isle Royale BBS and my experience:
Big Siskiwit River - I have seen Steelhead running up in May.
Chickenbone- Walleye, Northern Pike, Perch?
Feldtmann Lake - Northern Pike, Rainbow Trout, Lake Trout?
Hatchet Lake- Brook Trout
Intermediate - Northern Pike
Lake Desor- Lake Trout, Brook Trout? (I have recently been told Brook Trout were there but, no more)
Lake Ritchie - Northern Pike, Perch?
Lake Siskiwit- Lake Trout, Northern Pike (I have seen Lake Trout caught there in May)
Lake Wagejo - Northern Pike, Perch.
Moose Lake - No fish
Siskiwit Falls - I have seen Steelhead running up in May..
Whittlesey- Northern Pike
Wood - Northern Pike
There is also a book available called "Fishes of Isle Royale".  It is available through the Isle Royale Natural History Association at www.irnha.org.  There is also some information in the book “Isle Royale: Footpaths and Water Routes” by Jim DuFresne.  It is a must have if you are going there.  It is also available through the Isle Royale Natural History Association at www.irnha.org and, most outdoors shops and web sites.

Is it possible to fish from the shore?
It can be quite hard to fish from the shore due to vegetation and deadheads.  You really have to walk out a bit.  Your best bet is a canoe.

What kind of lures do I need to bring?
Good luck with Northern Pike was reported with black and white Daredevil spoons about 3-3 1/2 " long, red & white spoons, shiny spoons and sinking Rapella's.   Another report from John M. confirmed using 3" and over Spoons.  Another comment was to bring Rapella's and Daredevils.  Per Erica: "I will definitely agree with the daredevils. I used a 3" one with black zebra stripes on one side and neon orange, yellow and green in Lake Feldtmann and caught a 38" northern.  And you might want to use a steel wire leader. I caught mine on 8 lb. test (swear to God) and my line broke about 30 seconds after dragging the thing onto the beach (northerns have lots of big teeth). And keep your drag relatively loose, just in case".  Please, if you have fished any lakes, let me know what you used and, what kind of luck you had.

If going from Minnesota to the island, where can I get a fishing license?
You used to be able to buy a Michigan fishing license at Voyageur's Marina next to the Voyager II boat dock but, since it was sold, you cannot.  That might change.  Your best bet now would be to buy one ahead of time or, in Grand Marais.  You can also buy one at the Rock Harbor lodge or store and the Windigo ranger station, if they are open.  According to John I., The Grand Portage Marina, adjacent to the GP Lodge, sells Michigan fishing licenses.  They're open 6am-8pm.  You can find Michigan license agents by going to http://www.mdnr-elicense.com/welcome.asp then clicking on the Agent Locator.

Are there fishing charters available?
A recommended fishing charter from Grand Portage Harbor is run by Captain Don Szczech of "All-Out Charters And Marine Svc. Inc.".  He can be reached by email at: wrench528@worldnet.att.net.

What are some good Kayaking trips on the island?
For a description of  the possible water routes and portages, get the book “Isle Royale: Footpaths and Water Routes” by Jim DuFresne.  It is a must have if you are going there.  It is available through the Isle Royale Natural History Association at www.irnha.org and, most outdoors shops and web sites.

How hard is it to Kayak in Lake Superior?
Lake Superior is notorious for changing quick.  It can be peaceful then, a half hour later, treacherous.  For a description of what is needed and what you should keep in mind, check out a write-up that was posted on the Isle Royale National-Park Chat Page by Dave Naudi by clicking here.

Is there a place to rent Kayak's to bring over?
In Grand Marais, Minnesota there's a place called "Cascade Kayaks".  Their phone number is: 218 387-2360.  For general outfitting there's a place called "Bear Track Outfitters" in Grand Marais.  Their phone number is: 218-387-1162.
In Copper Harbor, Check out the Keewenaw Adventure Company.  Their phone number is: 906-289-4303.  Their web site is at: www.keweenawadventure.com.  Keep in mind that if you rent you will have to pay to have them taken over to the island but, if you plan on portaging, you are better off because they only rent aluminum canoes on the island.

These are the regulations typed verbatim from the back of the permit I received in May, 2001:
1. Fires are permitted only in designated grills and metal rings, as indicated on your permit.  Use only dead and down wood.
2. Carry out all of your trash and litter, including cigarette butts and foil.  Burning trash, or discarding trash or litter into pit toilets, is prohibited.
3. In campgrounds, tents must be pitched in designated sites only.  Tents are prohibited at shelter sites.
4. Cross-country camping is permitted only if pre-registered with Park Ranger for zone & date on permit.  Special rules apply.
5. Never feed wildlife.  Keep a clean camp.  Keep wildlife away from food and garbage and vice versa.
6. Keep all soap - even biodegradable soap - out of lakes and streams.  Do all washing and bathing at least 100' away from the waters edge.
7. Where there is no fish cleaning station, cut remains into small pieces and dispose in deep water (>50 ft depth) or on shorelines at least 100' from campgrounds.  Leave them on shore above water and below vegetation where gulls will scavenge.
8. DOGS, cats, and other domestic mammals are prohibited on the lands and waters of Isle Royale National Park.
9. Quiet hours are between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. Eastern Time.  During this time, generators are prohibited. Special rules apply to Quiet/No Wake zones.
10. Fishing on inland lakes, artificial bait only.  On Lake Superior, Michigan fishing license required.
11. Streams and creeks are open for fishing from the last Saturday in April to August 15.  Special rules apply for brook trout.
12. Possession of fish fillets is prohibited, unless fillets are being prepared for immediate consumption.
13. Groups (7-10 people) must have advanced camping registration and follow itinerary specified on the permit.
14. Removing, disturbing, or possessing living or dead wildlife or parts of them (such as antlers), or plants, is prohibited.  Disturbance of paleontological specimens, or any cultural or archeological resources, is prohibited.  Collecting and removing mineral resources such as agates, datolite, or greenstones, including those in Lake Superior, is prohibited.