Public North Bay Dock?

Hey folks, I love hearing the fishing reports. I'll be up there in 1 month to share in the fun.

Having a cabin on the south shore, it's a source of humor for my crowd that in 35 years, I haven't ever traveled to North Bay. It's always straight off of Hwy 11, to Foote's store for last minute provisions or restocks, to Fish Bay Marina, and to the cabin. We're thinking about changing that this year. Last year we took a long boat ride to Dokis on the French, and this year we're thinking about crossing the lake. We'll have my mother with us, and taking her for a meal out and an adventure is tempting. Trust us, we know about the winds and waves, and we'll be sure the forecast is perfect if we attempt the trip.

Is there a public place to dock and walk from? I found the waterfront marina, but am unsure how to arrive with our rental pontoon boat, and be there without being a registered customer/slip holder. Other suggestions are appreciated too, although google maps doesn't offer many alternatives.

I've always been curious how North Bay became the large city on the lake considering that's where it seems to take prevailing winds straight in the face?...

EDIT: an email to a City of North Bay employee answered my questions very quickly and thoroughly about the waterfront marina... that said, I'd gladly take any alternative suggestions that you might have.

Nice public docks in Callander. Couple of restaurants in town. You’ll find better dining in North Bay though.

Enter Callander Bay, there's a private marina next to the Gov't dock. Not sure if they'll even charge you.

Unfortunately, the public slips at the gov't dock were damaged last winter and they haven't been replaced yet. (waiting on delivery)

There's Lulu's restaurant...think chicken wings, burgers etc that kind of food
or
1880 Lakehouse Bistro, higher end meals, steak, lamb chops etc....food prepared by a chef as opposed to a cook.

Thanks Porky and Lima. Good info... Now we just need calm winds. Your time is appreciated.

What is the difference between a chef and a cook??one has a piece of paper stating they have theyre red seal which means nothing i know cooks who have no credentials but have trained under excellent teachers who could cook the so called chef under the table!!

No disrespect intended. I think most readers will understand my comment.

Cooks work at certain types of restaurants whereas a chef will be at higher end places.

I know your not disrespecting but i run a upscale kitchen with no red seal ive learned more in restaurants then i could have going to school all good im just saying a red seal "chef" is about official as a red chef jackett

As long as the food tastes great and the plate is full, I am happy. My grandfather owned a bakery and a fish shop. He was a cook during WWII on a ship on the Atlantic Ocean. My mom worked as a cook at a seniors home for a long time. I was lucky and got to eat there sometimes, the food was great. My niece went to cooking school, but she is not a chef. She runs a big restaurant and the food is great. I worked at a Steak House when I was 18 years old. Had dinner there 5 days a week. My friends and I who were also 18 were the ones making the steaks etc. We were taught how to do it by a great cook. As long as the food is great and there is lots of it. BBQ, OVEN BAKED, GRILLED, STIR FRIED, DEEP FRIED, bring it on. I love food.

Don't forget desert.

You are so right crapee man and that plate looks great aswell as the desert

2 things after my last 2 week stay.

1) public docks are now in at Callander for anyone wondering.

2). After hearing about the Lakehouse Bistro for some time now from multiple sources, I tried it out with my Wife. Unbelievably good food! I highly recommend it and it will be a regular spot for us as we are frequently through the area! Attached is a pic of the grilled pork belly atop garlic mashed potatoes and fresh vegetables. Absolutely delicious! My Wife’s meal was fantastic as well but no pic!

Edited to add a 3rd thing. Fishing was exceptional as well!