Marten River versus French River

[Ron gula]

Hi all. Does anyone have a view on how the two compare? We love the French / Chaudierre but are always looking for new adventures. Main focus is fishing both in terms of scenery and the fishing / catching itself. Any thoughts super appreciated.

[fishmagnet]

We go to Marten River 3 or 4 times a year..
It is beautiful area which keeps bringing us back.
Fishing is tough on the river always and most will just head to one of the lakes that are connected to the river.
There are some great lakes throughout the area that in my opinion have great fishing opportunities..
Never been to the French but from reports fishing isn't what it used to be unless your a local that knows where the spots are..
We have been going to Marten River now for 26 years and never get tired of it.. We usually stay with friends that are on a somewhat private lake as there no real access to it.. The provincial park there is one of the nicest parks in Ontario of course in our opinion.
You can't go wrong with what ever you decide.
Cheers Dave B.

[Ron gula]

Super helpful and thank you! Are the various lakes you refer to accessible by boat or are they effectively landlocked / require portage or something like that?

We went to the French last September and the fishing was unbelievable so I can only imagine what it was like in the old days when it was good!;)

Thank you again!

[fishmagnet]

Pm sent..

[fishmagnet]

If looking for nicer accommodations in the area check out Marten River Lodge, pricey but nice and puts you near everything..

[Fozzy47]

Over the course of the last 40 yrs or so, I've been lucky to have fished both regularly.
I still can't decide which one is the better choice.
I'll keep trying to decide though....i'm no quitter...lol.

We are fortunate we have both of these super river systems to choose from....very fortunate indeed.

Cheers,

[Ron gula]

I like that! Super funny!

If you don’t mind me asking, how are they different and / or what do you like in each?

Thanks in advance. I’m hoping I have 40 more to figure things out!

[Fozzy47]

That's a hard one to answer.
For me, I like the added pleasure of having all the pot-hole/ adjacent lakes you can get into with the Marten River system.
On the French River I believe you have more water to cover plus the added excitement of "huge" Muskie. I was lucky to catch and release a 54" female a few yrs ago.

Tough decision...still considering.


Cheers,

[Ron gula]

Thank you again! Narrowing down to the Marten River Lodge or Chaudierre. Much appreciate everyone’s feedback!!!!!!!

[Winterfisher]

I've only done the french a couple times. I take angling fairly seriously and I put my time in. I found the french a fairly tough one to figure out the fish patterns and spots, but once you have it figured, the fishing is pretty decent. Cant beat the scenery, especially it you make it to georgian bay.