Appreciate the advice. Any outfitter or launch point you guys recommend?
Bummer, I used La Croix Outfitters a few times. In Buyck, (pronounced BIKE) MN. But they're no longer. Great guys.
In any cases, there are tons of lakes. All with good fishing. Some solid advice, spend as many days as you possibly can. Figuring that as far as you can go in, you have to come that far back out - a 3 day trip is too short. Unless you're going to get picked up at a different trailhead than you were dropped off at.
Things to bring: Rope for bear bags. this is a must. Unless you're on an island, the bear bags can not be far enough away from your camp. Listening to a bear breathing on the other side of your nylon tent wall, is enough to curl your toes. And yes, the bears visit even the small islands.
Bug Spray. When you think you have enough, double it. The more DEET, the better. Them're some hungry bastages up there.
Map. Most of the outfitters have them for sale. Buy one. Bring a big Ziploc bag to put it in, so you can have it on your pack or your lap, and can see it at a glance, even in the rain. The Rainy River is aptly named. You might think you can just directions from the sun, but not on a cloudy day, so bring a decent compass. Also, the maps will show established campsites. Or your outfitter can point some out for you.
Also, don't worry about the fish. I love fish and fishing - don't get me wrong, but it's beautiful up there, and if you're with good people, you'll enjoy yourself even if you don't catch trophies.
Regarding the Kevlar vs Aluminum canoe, I would go with the aluminum. You WILL hit rocks, and I didn't feel like buying someone else's canoe. Kevlar is lighter, yes, but you can paddle away from scratches and dents.
I've only ever used an outfitter, and pretty much everybody I've talked to agrees. It's worth it to have someone put your meals together, along with the Duluth packs for the tents and sleeping bags, etc.
Enjoy yourselves!!
Jaykay