Best holiday wishes to all from the Aikens family. Here in Winnipeg, Staff and volunteers celebrated their Yule Time cheer at Pit and Julie’s on Saturday evening. Merriment and smiles were shared as everyone reconnected over a delicious meal (thanks Rolf, Lynne and Julie!). Thanks again to the Turenne family for hosting a very special evening once again. Also thank you to Ô Tours for getting everyone home safe.

Snowbound and bundled in our favorite Christmas sweaters, this year’s festivities have kicked off! With 2011 just around the corner, we look back on all the great memories and visit on last year with deep gratitude. From all of us at Aikens Lake Wilderness Lodge, have a very Happy Holidays with family and friends!

Every Christmas in Winnipeg, the big radio stations of CJOB68, Power97, and Groove FM host a radio auction that raises tens of thousands of dollars for a local Charity. This year, Aikens Lake is proud to be a part of it.  We have donated a trip for 2 people.  It is labeled as a father/son trip (we participated in a Father’s Day promotion last year with them), but is really for anybody.  The trip will be a full 3 day, 3 night stay valid anytime during our 2011 season. Someone will win this auction tomorrow and have a very special gift for someone come Christmas morning!

The auction is tomorrow; Friday, December 17th.  Bidding is not necessarily restricted to Manitobans, so if you are thinking of a trip to Aikens, this could be your ticket no matter where you are from.  The auction will last one hour (from 10 to 11 a.m. CST) and will be constantly updated on all three radio stations.  You can tune in online for updates on their respective websites.  Make sure to call 204-779-HOPE (4673) when placing a bid. All funds raised will support Hunger for Hope, because no child should go to bed hungry!

We look forward to following the auction tomorrow morning… and then hosting the lucky winners of the auction next summer!

http://www.cjob.com/ChristmasAuction/Story.aspx?ID=1317809

You will remember a story that ran in the Winnipeg Free Press last spring entitled “Fly-In Fishing Casts a Lasting Thrill”.   This two-page spread was written by Ron Pradinuk and created quite a buzz in Winnipeg, and is part of the ongoing tradition of generating a home-grown buzz in Manitoba.  Aikens Lake has become a household name in Winnipeg, which is outstanding when you consider that our industry has not historically tried to market to its own province.

Well, Ron is back at it.  He recently posted a new blog about his trip to Aikens on Trip Atlas.  Ron’s story ties in a lot of those unheralded “experiences” that all combine to make your overall “Aikens Experience” something truly special.  Ron has been in the travel business for nearly 30 years, has traveled to over 60 countries, owns and operates Journey’s Travel, and has served on the board of ACTA.  Trip Atlas is a Toronto-based website that has become one of the largest Online Travel Resource websites with over 3 million unique visitors per year.  Thanks Ron for your continued support and promotion of Aikens Lake!

http://tripatlas.com/guides/Canada/1721/Northern_Exposure…With_A_Fishing_Rod

After two very successful years as the Manitoba Lodges and Outfitters Association president, Pit Turenne has handed over the helm to elected president Mr. Paul Conchatre of Birdtail Waterfowl Services. Pit, whom many lodge & outfitter owners cheered and thanked for his considerable efforts and professionalism, completed his term on Monday this week during the annual general meeting of the association. Pit worked hand in hand with exiting Executive Director Mr. Ryan Suffron to usher in many new policies and to lobby government on all levels relating to issues pertinent to the membership. Thanks to these two, all of us who enjoy our vast and awe-inspiring resource-based products in Manitoba can ensure sharing it with all those who care to visit our great land. Pit your diligent, tactful and poised demeanor will surely make it a challenge for Mr.Conchatre to fill your shoes! Hats off to you for a great presidency!

Since 2005, he’s come a long way. Hired as a logger and general do-it-all labor, Christian “Kik” Dupont earned his stripes in spades through diligent hard work and incomparable ethics. His eagerness to impress and willingness to learn put him on the short list to become in 2006 one of our proud pro-staff guides. Kik is a quick study. He pushed himself to learn the ins and outs of the guiding craft. Mastering boat, line and fish in rapid succession he established himself as a staple team member on and off the water. His jovial and friendly attitude won over guests and staff alike. His unhindered ability to offer folks the unforgettable “Aikens Experience” is confirmed by the countless smiling anglers that land at the dock day after day. Fast-forward five seasons later, it’s no surprise that such a stalwart ambassador of our prized lodge would be bestowed the Head Guide title.

Kik has unique traits that make him a respected yet unassuming leader. A quiet confidence and a patient disposition put everyone that meet him at ease. He has picked up a huge bank of knowledge of Aikens Lake by scouting the reefs and flats, casting and cranking the shallows and listening in on the cues dropped by the “Old Dogs” and other guides alike.  As an added bonus, Kik has graced Big Molly’s since 2005 with many impromptu concerts featuring his deft touch with the guitar. Presently, Kik is completing his guitar-making courses (known as luthiery) in Québec City. If his skills with the strings are any indicator, his instruments will be highly sought-after!

Our Head Guide manages the water and guides to ensure a quality of expertise and stewardship that has become one of Aikens’ most recognized strengths. Our ten guide team is proud to have him as their representative; he embodies the traits that make our staff the best in the business. Assuredly, many of the past guests who’ve had the pleasure of spending a day in Kik’s boat will applaud his new title. We’re excited to have you as the team leader as of 2011! Congratulations Kik, your well-deserved position is a true testament to your kind nature, professionalism and resolve.

After a great season at the lodge, which saw more visiting guests than years prior, our office is buzzing with activity once again. Our bookings for the 2011 season of fishing are starting to shape up with happy fisherman from all over calling in to secure their preferred dates, guides and cabins. That being said, to further drive folks to invest in our top-class fishing adventures, we are freezing our 2010 pricing until December 17th, 2010.  Book your 2011 “Aikens Experience” at 2010 rates now!

Email (fishing@aikenslake.com) or phone toll-free (1-800-565-2595) for your personalized proposal at our 2010 rates! These rates combined with any of our discount promotions can afford you some serious savings.  We look forward to hearing from you!

With record temperatures lasting into mid-November, many Aikens staffers are taking advantage of the beautiful weather to get in a few last casts of the open water season. It seems a full summer of daily fishing just wasn’t enough. Two trips in particular are the subject of this newsletter. Firstly, a couple weekends ago, 7 intrepid anglers traveled east to Minaki, Ontario in search of trophy Musky. The group was a mash of Aikens regulars, both present and past. Opting for the cabins and boats at Bayview Lodge, the fishermen set out on the lake for a three-day adventure chasing down the fish of a thousand casts. Sunny blue skies made for an exceptional time on the water. Since the annual trip’s begin (Fall Classic 2007), the boys have been elaborating their playbook (and tackle boxes) to dial into these finicky beasts. This year’s tally was 9 Musky, with the largest boated by Fall Classic rookie Jeff Peterson. His 46” fish beat out the closest rival by 2”! A great time was had by all and plans are in motion for the next year’s annual tradition.

The second adventure we’d like to share with you was undertaken amidst the breath-taking vistas of the Rocky Mountains in British Columbia. Nestled near the confluent of the Fraser and Harrison rivers, The Echo Resort greeted Pit, Julie, Pat & Janelle for an unforgettable experience. Patrick and Pit had been dreaming of fishing for the mythical Great White Sturgeon for years. The largest freshwater fish in the world is found in copious amounts in these rivers. Armed with courage, anticipation and delicious sandwiches for lunch, the guys and gals headed out on the water with their veteran guide Anthony ”Merr” Sprangers. It didn’t take long for them to hook up. Within an hour Janelle was struggling to handle one of the prehistoric beasts. Her first sturgeon measured 56”! What a fish to get the trip started. Julie was second to land an impressive specimen. Her smile with this four foot fish tells it all. Pit showed his mettle next, facing-off with a whopping 5′5” Goliath. With an 8 foot rod and 150# test line, he heaved the bottom dweller on board. Patrick, not to be outdone set hook on what proved to be the largest fish of the trip. After an amazing run the fish let up enough for Patrick to take a picture with this 5′9” horse. Everyone in the boat were ecstatic to have conquered these outlandish creatures. In all over the two days, 9 sturgeons were caught, tagged and released. Way to go gang!

Many thanks go to our gracious hosts at Bayview and The Echoes. Our time spent at both these establishments reminded us once again why we are so proud to to be part of an industry that offers so many smiles and memories to its clientele. For more info on either of these two locations please visit their links here:

Bay View Lodge: www.minaki-bayviewlodge.com

The Echoes Harrison River Retreat:  www.harrisonriverretreat.com

We are very proud to admit we still have the itch. Remember, you’re always just one bite away!

Fishing at Aikens Lake is amazing! This year was no different. Hundreds of anglers from all over the world converged on Aikens this season to try their hand at landing trophy fish on our rich fishing grounds. Thousands upon thousands of fish were caught (and released) in our guide boats between now and early May. But above all everyone enjoyed their fun-filled relaxing experience at Aikens.

Some truly awesome fish were recorded this year, our Master Angler’s Club and new Century Club grew with many new members. Here are this years biggest fish by species:

First off 2010’s largest Whitefish was caught by Mr. Mark Jaster from Mankato, MN. This 25” slab put up a heck of a fight at the Fast Waters.  Way to go Mark!

Our benchmark Northern Pike this year was angled by Mr. Micheal Clarfield hailing from Toronto, ON. The 44” beast was seduced out the weeds with a Glidin’ Rap in Moosehead Bay in mid-June. The Snaggletooth was the second of a three trophy pike day! Incredible catch and an incredible day!

Aikens Lake’s deep waters held another awe-inspiring fish for one lucky angler. Jacob Siegal (whose family has been visiting us for many years), had his nerves, and his knees a-knockin (inside joke for Jake!) in check when he fought this Goliath. The large Lake Trout  smacked his tube jig way out in uncharted waters between Kik’s and Chris’ Corner. The Siegal’s guide (Griffin) reported hauling in lake trout non-stop that early June day - one of the best laker days recorded on Aikens with over 75 fish landed including a bunch of triple-headers!  Hot action on a hot day!

And of course, Aikens’ claim to fame is its out-of-this-world Walleye fishing. By far the most prevalent of our trophy species, 2010’s biggest was claimed by first-time guest Mr. David Sone. On the morning of his first day out on his first (but definitely not last) trip to Aikens Lake,  he hauled in a whopping 31” Eye in 31 feet of water off South Shore Reef! What a way to begin your Aikens Experience. David and his father Ken, both from Chicago, couldn’t stop smiling!

Congratulations to all these lucky fishermen. Your trophies will surely etch a spot in your memories and give us all something to dream about! Thanks for being a part of our 2010 season.

At Aikens, our full-time staff is a vibrant collection of students and young adults.  They are a huge part of the “Aikens Experience” for our guests and lifelong friendships have been forged as a result.  For those of you that have been to Aikens over the years, this is what will be of particular interest to you as you read this newsletter item!

In late August and early September, the majority of our staff returns to civilization to get back into their studies.  Our “September crew” is always a devoted, small, and fun crew.  We often have a very relaxed month with fewer guests and fewer staff.  It’s a very fun time of year as the forest is changing color, that familiar chill in the wind starts to reappear, and the fish are getting fattened up for the long winter ahead.  On the other hand, having a smaller crew in September opens the door for us to bring back names from olden days for short stints when times are busy.

We had the opportunity to do just that this past week with a group of 33 heading into camp.  We brought in a lot of of our ex-guides and girls back for the week.  On the water, some of the names you would recognize include Marquis, Turbo, Rob Jounot, Andrew, and Trevor.  Heck, even Pit, Pat, and Gerry were guiding.  On the peninsula side, two of our past chefs Rachelle and Megan were back to help out wherever they were needed.  There was definitely a “reunion” atmosphere at the lodge with all of our favorites back up for the week!

Landing a day before the group arrived gave the guides the chance to scout Aikens and get reacquainted with their old mistress.   Marquis guided for many years until 2000, and was our head guide in those last couple of seasons.  Marquis (aka: Keester) is known for his quick wit, endless supply of jokes, and of course his fishing prowess!  Marquis went out that first morning to see if he couldn’t find some fish.  He asked Pit if anyone had fished the tip of Trout Island.  A puzzled look ensued.  In all honesty, that spot probably hasn’t been touched in the 10 years since Marquis was head guide!  As the gentle waves pushed up against Trout Island, Marquis had found his money bite for the week! That afternoon, Marquis and a few others reeled in slot walleye after slot walleye.  It is a small spot, and has quite a range of depths.  The most successful depth was 38-42 feet.

As the guests started to arrive the following day, the tip of Trout Island became the new hotspot.  That said, everyone respected Keester’s space and allowed him first dibs on it every day.  He guided an absolute monster there on the 2nd day… 28″ with a 15″ girth (normal girth on a trophy fish is 12-13″)! After having guided for those many years, Marquis finally has a spot on the lake to call his own!  The North point of Trout Island is now known as Keester’s Spot (POT = Point of Trout!).  I am sure that the spot won’t be overlooked any longer.

As the week continued, the older guides brought back to life many of their favorite little spots.  Pat guided a 38″ pike on Colin’s Cruise, while Turbo was able to one-up him on the final afternoon by guiding a 42″pike there as well.  Pit found good bites on Banjo Reef, Rob was netting big fish on South Gull (he also landed a trophy there!) .  It wasn’t just the main lake that was hot… spots in the river were also hitting.  Indian Nose was the most popular spot in the river.

It is always special to welcome back members of the Aikens family.  As our staff graduate from school and start careers and families, it’s really cool to have the opportunity to keep in touch with them and bring them back to Aikens every now and then.  The knowledge and experience that is handed down to current staff is invaluable.  It is also great to be able to see where their lives have taken them since they last left Aikens as a full-time employee.  Thanks to everyone who came in to help us out last week - it made for a very memorable time at Aikens! What a reunion!

The Ytterberg brothers had never been on a Canadian fly-in fishing trip.   However, they had heard the stories about all the huge fish and started asking friends where to go.  They decided late in the summer that this would be the year they would try it out!  Serendipitously, through a referral from a referral, they found us.  Phil, from MN, contacted us only a few weeks before their hopeful dates.  As it turned out, we did indeed have room over the long weekend to house them.  Phil met up with his brother Carl in Winnipeg and both were excited to fly up to Aikens Lake for their first fly-in fishing experience!

On their first day, they were fishing for walleyes in the Gammon River.  There is a small hole that only dips to 13 feet as you near the falls.  You may have noticed that there was a trophy pike caught in “Chinatown” earlier this year… well this is the place!  As Carl was bringing in a small walleye, this 42.5″ pike decided to latch on!  Luckily, they landed both fish before the pike let go.  As the trophy pike glided into the net, the brothers high-fived and Carl exclaimed “I just caught a brochure fish”.  They had heard the stories and seen the website full of monster fish, but had never expected that they would be able to catch anything like it.  What an exciting way to start a trip!

The following evening they were at the Honeyhole when a trophy walleye bit on the jig!  Two trophies on the first two days for Carl… now Phil was starting to ask questions.  That said, both brothers qualified for the new “Aikens Lake Century Club” that day.  Carl’s largest four walleyes measured at 103″, while Phil landed walleyes of 25,25,26,27″ for a total of 104″.

With Griffin as their guide, the brothers learned a lot about Aikens and they started to develop a new technique on Aikens.  Now known as the “lemon-pepper troll”, they would start trolling after shorelunch between Middle Gull and South Gull, pulling lures over anywhere from 90-250 feet.  They would have lures that ran near the top of the water column, from 5 feet to 30+.  This technique yielded them dozens of slot walleyes over the few days.  Despite the rain and wind, they continued this technique until Phil was rewarded with a 41″ pike of his own!  It was caught with a deeper diver (30+ feet) over 90 feet.

With one day left, they decided to visit Bonaventure for a day trip.  Bonaventure is our portage lake.  Well, they couldn’t keep the fish off the hook!  Griffin estimated over 150 walleyes were caught that day, starting from the moment they got in boat on the other side of the falls.  They had their first double-header casting into the whitewater as they were pushing off at the beginning of the day! Back in the day, Bonaventure was known for its numbers of walleyes but never for their size.  This time, the average walleye was around 20″ with the biggest being 26″.  Seems those smaller year classes are growing up!  Bonaventure only gets fished about a dozen times per year, and so the fish there go crazy when they see a hook!

With only one evening left, the brothers convinced Griffin to take them out after dinner.  As they were catching walleye in the flats where the Honeyhole washes into the main body of water, lightning struck a second time.  Another 42″ pike struck a small walleye and after a brief struggle both were landed.  In fact, it seemed the pike were voraciously feeding on small walleyes that night, because as soon as a small walleye would bite and get hooked, its struggle as it was being reeled in set off alarm bells for the big pike in the area.  They had several other trophy pike strike their walleyes as they were being brought in, but landed only the one.

In all, it was a tremendous stay for the Ytterbergs.  They had seen the website and hoped that the “Aikens Experience” would live up to the hype.  In the end, the brothers went home with several “brochure pictures” of their own!