When Will the Bugs "Be Bad"?

It is that time of the year when (once again) many people start asking questions regarding the "bugs" on Isle Royale and when they will be present and bothersome in large numbers. Here are my thoughts on that subject:

1) ALWAYS come to Isle Royale prepared for potential encounters with large numbers of attacking flies, mosquitos, and other bugs. Bring insect repellent. Bring a head net. Maybe treat your clothing and gear with permethrin--or similar repellents. It is better to come prepared to deal with "bugs" and not need it--than to need it--and not be prepared.

2) No one knows (for sure) when and where the bugs will be "problematic" on Isle Royale. (Read that sentence again--two or three times and slowly). Contrary to popular opinion, the bugs DO NOT publish their plans long in advance on social media. Weather conditions play a big role in regard to when there are more/less "bugs". Large numbers of bugs can be present at just about anytime that the park is open. (That being said, the chances of encountering lots of problematic bugs is probably less very early and very late in the Isle Royale season).

3) Even on the same day, "bug conditions" can vary from place to place on the Island--and even at different places in the same campground (or on different sections of the same trail).

4) Some people seem to attract bugs (such as flies and mosquitos) more/less than other people. Also, different people deal with "bugs" differently. Some people can have a huge swarm of mosquitos landing on them--and hardly feel bothered by it. Other people can SEE two bugs 20 feet away from them --and practically lose their mind over "the really bad bug conditions".

5) For those who still REALLY need to have an answer to the question "When (and where) on Isle Royale will the bugs be really bad?" Here is an answer:

"Moskey Basin-- from 5:45 p.m. to 9:02 p.m. on June 11, 2022 and also at East Chickenbone Campground from 7:19 p.m. to 8:27 p.m. on June 22nd."

I hope that answer helps those individuals who REALLY need to know when or where the bugs will be problematic.

(Actually, my answer has just about as much chance of being accurate as nearly any other answer that someone might offer).

Happy trails!