Naotkamegwanning First Nation
Land Code Information Website
About Naotkamegwanning
First Nation
Naotkamegwanning First Nation
The Ojibway community of Naotkamegwanning First Nation, also known as Whitefish Bay, is located in the Lake of the Woods region in Northwestern Ontario, within the heart of the Treaty #3 Territory. In Anishinaabemowin, Naotkamegwanning means “of the Whitefish Point.” The community is recognized as the "Home of the Jingle Dress", reflecting its deep cultural and spiritual connection to the land through fishing, hunting, trapping, and traditional ceremonies.
Naotkamegwanning First Nation consists of three reserves—Whitefish Bay 32A, Yellow Girl Bay 32B, and Sabaskong Bay 32C—and shares the Agency 30 Reserve on Lake of the Woods with twelve other First Nations.
The nearest township, Sioux Narrows, is 15 km away, and the nearest urban centre, Kenora, is located 96 km north of the community. Naotkamegwanning has year-round road access and an ice road in winter, supporting a total population of 712 on-reserve members and 496 members living outside the community.
Cultural Identity
Naotkamegwanning is known throughout the Treaty #3 Territory as one of the few communities that has maintained strong and vibrant Anishinaabe cultural practices and beliefs. Nearly 48% of the population speaks the Ojibway language, a remarkable achievement compared to the national average of 24% among Indigenous people across Canada.
The community is also home to the White Fish Bay Singers, a renowned drum group that has been a champion drum since 1989. Through their music, they preserve and share traditional Anishinaabe songs, performing across Canada and internationally. With over ten released recordings, they remain respected cultural ambassadors across North America.
Many members of Naotkamegwanning continue to live in close connection with the land, engaging in fishing, hunting, and the harvesting of wild rice. The importance of passing on teachings, language, and cultural practices is reflected in the programs and services offered throughout the community, ensuring that Anishinaabe ways of life remain strong for future generations.
Community Support
Naotkamegwanning is a community that strives for self-sufficiency and offers a wide range of programs and services designed to support members of all ages. These include:
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Baibombeh Anishinaabe School (Kindergarten to Grade 12)
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Mino’ Giizhigad Elders Centre (Supportive Housing)
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Naotkamegwanning Health Centre (Clinic / Traditional Care)
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Naotkamegwanning Emergency Medical Service (Ambulance / Paramedic Services)
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Naotkamegwanning Head Start Program
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Naotkamegwanning Alternative High School
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Naotkamegwanning Women’s Shelter
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Naotkamegwanning Administration Office
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Naotkamegwanning Social Services Administration Office
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Black River Camp (Youth & Elder Cultural Camp)
Additional programs and organizations with offices in the community include:
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Treaty #3 Police Service
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Shawendaasowin Child & Family Services – Prevention Program
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Shawendaasowin Child & Family Services – Child Protection Program
In addition to these essential services, Naotkamegwanning’s cultural life is supported by its traditional Roundhouse and pow wow grounds, which serve as gathering places for ceremony, celebration, and community connection. A cultural component is embedded in all community programming, ensuring that services reflect and honour Anishinaabe values, teachings, and identity.
