Testimonials
Send us your Aikens Lake testimonial (click here)
——————————————–
Hi good people at Aikens Lake Wilderness Lodge! Definition of adventure, serenity & fun is viewing a bear swimming 30′ from your boat, sighting a moose meandering in the woods, eagles circling in the sky & fighting off red squirrels terrorizing the tasty incomparable ’shore lunches’ prepared by humorous and attentive guides only interested in your comfort. Did I mention that the fishing ‘aint so bad either’ as experienced by the 100’s of fish hooked & released by the “Sone Clan” this second week of July? May I also add that sharing this paradise with my two sons & granddaughter further enhanced my 2nd pleasurable return to Aikens. Kudos to Pat, Pit & lodge family for making this trip so memorable for me. There’s a renowned American cliche proclaimed when one wins a championship in any sport which is, ” I want to go to Disneyland!” … It should be changed to “I want to enjoy the Aiken’s Experience!” The old guy from Chicago thanks you again!
Ken ‘Hannah, the elite Fisherkid’s Grandfather’ Sone
——————————————–
I really want to compliment you and your staff fro making our trip outstanding. Elliot was just great, as well as everyone we came in contact with. The girls even saved our dinner and warmed it up for us after our late arrival from “Bonn”, that was above and beyond great service.
I don’t have to tell you we enjoyed the fishing after our experience at the “Bonn”. I hope this is just the first of my trips to Aikens Lake. Everything you advertised was more than truthful, if you need a referral for anyone else in the “South”, give them my name.
Art Parker - Aberdeen, NC
——————————————–
I would like to thank you and all the staff at Aikens lake Wilderness Lodge for your generous hospitality. Everything at the lodge was perfect.
The tour helped our delegates appreciate the Pimachiowin Aki World Heritage Proejct and understand just why it is being considered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The natural beauty of the area served as a reminder of how special our boreal forest is and why we must take steps today to preserve it for future generations.
Everyone in our group had a wonderful time and were left with a lasing impression of the importance of Manitoba’s boreal forest. I know I will never forget the best catch of my life while fishing on Aikens Lake.
After the trip the delegates all spoke very highly of the service at Aikens Lake Wilderness Lodge. You did an excellent job showcasing the best of Manitoba’s tourism industry. Sincerely,
Greg Selinger, Premier of Manitoba
Scanned copy of the letter of thanks from the Premier
——————————————–
From my first phone call to being dropped off at the Winnipeg airport for our return flight, our experience with Aikens Lake was first class. Ben and I thoroughly enjoyed the trip and it was everything that you said it would be. Customer focus isn’t just something that you talk about. From the dockhand, to the guide, to the chef, and all the rest of your super friendly staff, everyone had one goal… to make our trip the best that it could be. Obviously that service started with you. Kudos for running and well oiled machine dedicated to the delivery of a unique travel adventure beyond just catching lots of big fish. I can’t imagine a nicer Father’s Day weekend.
Ron Souders - Chestertown, MD
——————————————–
Hi - Bonjour Pit & Julie! What a wonderful fishing experience we had at your lodge!!! It started with a spectacular welcome (very impressive), then eating great food, fishing with very friendly guides, mixing and mingling, eating again, more fishing, shorelunching (unbelievable fish recipes…) Wow… that’s a 110%! You and your team know how to satisfy and impress your clients! Well done.
Martin Thibodeau - Winnipeg, MB
——————————————–
Aikens Lake is a fantastic spot to take your child for a fishing extravaganza. What’s so nice about Aikens is that the staff is so accommodating to every need that you might have. No one ever says that something is not possible. From the moment we touched down from our plane ride, everything was perfect. The food was fantastic, the atmosphere was perfect and fishing was just tremendous. My 10-year old son had the thrill of his life when he caught a 41″ northern pike on the second day of our trip. The guides who take you around the lake are very professional and, more importantly, were patient and completely understanding of the needs of a 10 year old boy. If you are looking for a totally all inclusive fishing vacations, Aikens is the place to be!
Andrew D Alpert - Crofton, MD
——————————————–
My enchantment with Aikens Lake Wilderness Lodge began when we landed on the lake in a Turbo Otter, I felt as excited as a young boy and I realized that I was grinning from ear to ear. Now, when I think of a fishing trip, hospitality is not the first thing that crosses my mind. But here in the middle of nowhere, the staff were right on the spot to greet us. They took our bags, welcomed my friends and I and they introduced themselves. Our belongings were taken to our cabin and as we walked to our accommodations we were given a little history of the place. What really struck me as well was that the view was awe inspiring.
The day starts at Aikens with a coffee wake up call and then a few minutes later, breakfast is ready. The food is incredible and the service is impeccable. You certainly will never go hungry and in terms of service, the staff is always checking in with you. If high quality food and friendliness are important to you, then Aikens Lake is definitely for you. It is quite wondrous to be able to be out on the lake with the sun shining, fog rising off the water; rod in hand and the only thing you have to worry about is “oh I hope it’s a big one”.
Aikens Lake Wilderness Lodge allows you the opportunity to leave your busy life behind and be able to relax and enjoy yourself, knowing all your needs are being attended to if even for just a few days.
As our trip came to an end and we made our way back to the dock where the plane awaited us, all I could think about was what an amazing opportunity this lodge provides for its guests and those who have yet to experience it. My “other life” awaited me as I would step off the plane at the other end, however for that moment, all I could think about was “when will I be back?”
Thank you to the staff at Aikens Lake Wilderness Lodge.
Curtis Moore (A.K.A. Bob) - Winnipeg, MB
——————————————–
Pit and Julie - We want to thank you and all your staff for making our recent fishing trip memorable. Yes, it was all we expected and then some. Your staff is one of the best I’ve experienced at fishing lodges, kudos to them! Aikens Lake is one the most pristine lakes I’ve ever seen and thanks to your efforts in keeping it that way. It is a rare jewel in a remote area
Bruno was an excellent guide and like we said, we learned so much about fishing, different techniques, lures, and how to read the fish finder. Not to mention he’s an excellent cook. Now we just have to try and lose the extra pounds we put on!
Again, it was an experience I’ll never forget and I don’t ever remember having tears in my eyes when I ended a vacation. Thanks for making it so great!
Sue & Tom Burmood - River Falls, WI
——————————————–
Pit - I want to thank you, Julie, and the rest of your fantastic team for a tremendous “Aikens Experience”; the food, staff, lodging, Big Molly’s, everything was beyond my expectation. To the man, each of my customers expressed similar comments and because of it I will definitely get new business out of the trip. Oh yeah, the fishing was fantastic, but that really wouldn’t have mattered much if your hospitality and service were poor. Your one comment early in the trip, “I can’t control the weather or fishing, but everything else I can control” is very true in my business and the “Aikens Experience” has given me some ways to address a few issues within my area of influence. Thanks again.
Brian Archambault - Toronto, ON
——————————————–
Dear Pit and Julie,
Russ and I want to thank you and your staff for our wonderful experience at Aikens
Nancy and Russ Warncke - Dallas, TX
——————————————–
A quick word of thanks to you and everyone at Aikens: it was simply terrific, in every respect. The fish; the natural surroundings; the lake; our guide; the staff * every one of them; the food; the moose; everything. Thanks so much!
A la prochaine, et milles mercis,
Neil Besner - Winnipeg, MB
——————————————–
David Sone - Westchester, IL
Pit & Julie: It was a great time with a super bunch of individuals. I have not laughed so hard for years. I was glad to be part of it all. The lodge, service, and fishing were all outstanding. Thanks so much for such a memorable trip.
Don Lamont, Provincial Youth Angling Coordinator - Winnipeg, MB
——————————————–
Another great year of great fishing/ great weather and great hospitality. I have been fishing for many years and I can honestly say that the Thursday of fishing was by far the best day I have ever had. It topped off a fantastic week.
After three days of fantastic fishing we headed out for our last day. The day started off with my son catching a 41 inch trophy pike in the Honey Hole. Before 10, I had claimed the 100″ Century Club for the second day in a row. The only day I did not reach the Century Club was the first day when I caught my trophy 28 inch walleye. As we were fishing down the river Tyler our guide spotted a big moose with her baby calf. We slowly motored over to watch them cross the river. It was quite a sight. We capped off a great morning of fishing with the usual superb shore lunch with the rest of our crew. After lunch I told Tyler I wanted to go for pike. We headed off to Moosehead Bay. My son and I were casting and he caught a few smaller pike. Then I hooked in to a big, big pike. The pike took my lure almost immediately after it hit the water almost 50 feet from the boat. I immediately know it was a big fish and then got really excited as I brought it toward the boat and saw how large it was. After several runs from the boat and about 15 minutes I landed the largest pike of my life- a big hog over 44 inches and probably close to 30 pounds. I was so excited I could barely fish for the next half hour. But it was not over yet. We headed back to the Honey Hole just before dinner and can you believe my son caught a another 43 inch trophy pike to make it THREE trophy pike in our boat in one day. It just does not get better than this.
Congratulations on running such a high quality fishing resort. I have sent my pics off to many of my friends and I suspect you will have a lot of new business in the upcoming years. We are looking forward to coming back for more great fishing and hospitality.
- Michael Clarfield, Toronto, ON
Hi Pit & Julie,
Thanks, as in all of our past visits, Brad and I had a great time. Everyone was great. All of the girls did a great job, Tyler was a fantastic guide. We appreciate the attention and superb fishing. We’ll see you again, as soon as possible, Thanks, Steve and Brad
-Steve & Brad White - Dacula, GA
——————————————–
—- Darrell Morgan, Sioux Lookout, ON
——————————————–
“Hey Pit and Julie. Thank you for your GREAT hospitality and excellent fishing. I can honestly say that in all my years of fishing I have NEVER had a 250+ fish day on the water. You Lodge and staff are top notch. You will be highly recommended! Thanks again!”
- Ryan Knutson - Winnipeg, MB
——————————————–
At Aikens Lake the entire experience is amazing! The fishing is always a blast, and the staff make the experience that much greater! Especially when you are an amateur fisherwomen such as myself, having a guide ready and willing to take the fish off the hook is awesome! Food is great and the accomodations are beautiful! Plan to go to Aikens for years to come. Would recommend to anyone even if you are not an avid fisher. You will have a fishing experience incomparible to all others!
Danielle Leitch - Winnipeg, MB
——————————————–
This was the best fishing experience we have ever had! Fish are always biting somewhere and the guides know just where to take you. I’ve never had a more relaxing vacation where the staff was so great. Thanks for everything. Can’t wait to come back. Heaven is up… straight up to Aikens Lake!
Mike & Trish McKenney - Bedford, IA
——————————————–
Pit & Julie: Thanks for everything. By far and away the best fly-in fishing experience I have ever had. This was my 5th one to Canada and I have done two in Alaska. The staff was great and the comaraderie amongst the staff, guests and your management team is unparalleled anywhere. You also have an excellent Sales Manager in Pat Trudel. We all enjoyed spending time with him. The food was great and we had a lot of fun with our guides at shore lunch. Good guys! Don’t know that I will every replicate the fishing I experienced over the 4 days, you are sitting on an virtual Walleye factory, Unbelievable fish with many over 24 inches. We will spread the word about this adventure and you are sure to see us again. Take care and regards to your staff.
Mike Downing - Paradise Valley, AZ
——————————————–
To Pit, Julie, and all the staff:
You make a “good” trip into a “great” one with the smiles and outlook you all possess. Great fishing plus excellent shorelunch doesn’t hurt either! Thanks again,
Greg Bennett - Lee’s Summit, MO
——————————————–
I just wanted to say thank you again for everything you did to make the Komatsu trip a rip-roaring success! From start to finish, you guys were great! I don’t think I ever heard the word “No”, which is music to a meeting planners ears!
Those lucky enough to go on this trip have been talking about it non-stop and I think they’ll be talking about it for years to come.
Thanks again!
Sarah Ayre - Buffalo Grove, IL
Account Manager - Creative Group, Inc.
——————————————–
Just because it has taken us so long to get back to you does not mean we did not so enjoy the visit to Aikens Lodge! The whole trip was most interesting and beautifully organized and all of you responsible for it are to be congratulated. All went so well and was so interesting and enjoyable! The flight in the old De Havilland Otter was an interesting experience, which reminded me of my younger days! The fishing was unbelievable, like nothing we get in Ontario, where cormorants (and over fishing!) have depleted our lakes. We shall certainly recommend it to all our fishing friends. The food at the lodge was good and very sensible, not fish! lt would be impossible to equal the barbequed pickerel or pike we fished and ate, on some little island on the lake, only minutes after being caught! We had forgotten what really fresh, good fish, tastes like!!! Please convey our thanks for everything to all.
Miguel Jardim & Jeanne Innes - Elora, ON
SATW Associates (Society of Adventure Travel Writers)
——————————————–
We knew as we deplaned the float plane at Aikens Lake Wilderness Lodge that we were stepping into a little part of paradise. The warm and friendly staff made us feel completely welcome, they were more than willing to direct us to any part of the resort, even leading the way if necessary.
For such a remote & air-accessible spot, we were surprised at the number of modern and unexpected amenities: high-speed satellite communications and internet, clean, modern accommodations with the latest in easy-care composite wood floors. Suzanne was most pleased with our cabin’s indoor plumbing with hot showers and flush toilets.
Food & dining in the communal dining room were first-rate, with excellent service. Jimmy’s fine cooking was irresistible, even after having over-indulged during each day’s fabulous shorelunches. We certainly caught good numbers of Walleye and Northern Pike to amply supply fillets for shorelunches, with a few good-sized specimens to photograph, then release.
The 18-foot aluminum Lund fishing boats were comfortable and stable. Our guides gave us great directions and instructions on use of tackle and fishing techniques. They doubled as fantastic chefs as well! Besides fishing, Aikens Lake is home to a great variety of wildlife. We saw bald eagles, turkey vultures, and even a young moose cooling himself in the lake. The numerous loons assured us there was lots of feed in the lake for fish to grow big.
Suzanne took great interest in the number of sites containing remains and evidence of First Nations in the region. We also examined the artifacts left behind by fur traders and other early European explorers. With so much to see and do for all ages, Aikens lake Wilderness Lodge is an ideal place to visit for the entire family - boating, fishing, sight-seeing, wildlife-viewing, and swimming will keep all members of a family occupied!
David Wei & Suzanne Clouthier, Adventure Writing and Photography - Vancouver, BC
Members of the SATW (Society of Adventure Travel Writers)
——————————————–
I just wanted to let you know, that I had the best time at Aikens Lodge. It was wonderful to be around people that love their work. The fishing was the best one could hope for. The weather could not of been better. Good fishing, great food! And Awesome People! = The best vacation so far! Hope to see you again next year! Sincerely,
Deb Holtz/John Reinert - Iron Ridge, WI
——————————————–
We arrived at Aikens Lake where we were given a warm welcome by our hosts
and a quick tour of the lodge. Our fishing experience was world class, and
was accented not only by great scenery, but by professional and personable
guides who made the experience unforgettable.
I personally noticed that our guide had an excellent grasp of the geology
and history of the area, and this too made for an interesting trip.
The quality of the facilities, boats, equipment, and food on our trip made
it a once in a lifetime opportunity for us and our clients. The knowledge
and professionalism of our guides was outstanding.
Lane Salvato - Lubbock, TX
——————————————–
On behalf of myself and the directors of Prairie Toyota Dealer Advertising Association I would like to express our sincere thanks for your amazing hospitality during the recent filming of
Coordinating a trip for over 30 people (including a film crew) from across the Prairies can be daunting task. However, your team succeeded in making our experience at Aikens Lake Wilderness Lodge outstanding. It is a true sign of a world class fishing lodge when we were constantly and pleasantly surprised with all the little things your team did so well. As supporters of fishing and the great outdoors, we are excited to be associated with
Sincerely,
Chairman, Prairie
——————————————–
The idyllic setting of Aikens Lake, first class cabin accommodation, delectable meals (including fabulous shore lunches), convivial conversations with other anglers at the end of a day on the lake, and especially the high standard of service of an obliging and friendly staff, contributed to a vacation experience that will be long remembered. And thanks to the patience and assistance of our guide, within 3 days each of us had landed a walleye in excess of 26 inches in length - to go along with several other walleye and pike!
-Clare & Ted Towsley; Toronto, ON
—————————————
Pit, Julie, and the Aikens Team:
A few days ago I returned from my fourth trip to Aikens Lake. It has been my good fortune to experience many fishing lodge operations in Ontario, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan over the past 21 years, and of all those visited, Aikens Lake Wilderness Lodge is at the top of my list. You and your staff treat your guests like royalty from the moment they step off of the plane and onto the dock until it is time for the handshakes, smiles, and goodbye hugs when we have to depart for the “real world”. The thing I have noticed the most is that the staff truly enjoys working for you, and are well versed in customer relations. When you have this in place, add the beautiful scenery, outstanding fishing, and extraordinary food there is no doubt Aikens Lake puts the exclamation point on the Canadian fishing experience!!
-Jeff Ohman; Cottage Grove, MN
—————————————
We had always wanted to experience a fly-in fishing adventure and decided to come to Aikens Lake for a special celebration of our 30th wedding anniversary. From the moment we stepped off the plane our expectations were exceeded. We wanted to be pampered in a luxury setting yet experience trophy fishing. Everyone “on the peninsula” made us feel more like family than guests, and yet, spoiled us with service. We developed a special relationship with our guide Trevor, who put us in the Master Angler’s Club with a trophy Northern Pike for each of us as the ultimate culmination of a dream vacation. Thanks to everyone at Aikens Lake!
-Helen and Brian Jefferies; Brampton, ON
—————————————
Being the “responsible party” when bringing friends (and their wives) could make one apprehensive. The Aikens Lake staff did not let me down, but delivered top line treatment once again. Thank you!!!
-Gary Bernegger - New London, WI
—————————————
Pit, Julie, Pat, Bruno:
Words can not describe the experience Randy and I had. First off, what a pleasure it was to be fishing with Jonathan and Bryan. They definitely made a great fishing experience even better. Jonathan & Bryan, both Randy and I thank you. Since the charity auction for The Children’s Wish Foundation, I have heard many great things about Aikens Lake. You truly can not appreciate it until you experience it. Pit, you and your staff have gone above and beyond the call of duty. From wake up to the time we hit the bed in the wee hours of the morning, we were treated like family. Every time I hear or see ‘Beer Batter’ I will always have a smile on face. I consider myself to be a fairly novice fisherman, I appreciate the knowledge and experience of both Pat and Bruno shared. I surely came out knowing a lot more about fish and fishing. Best of all, the kids of The Children’s Wish Foundation will benefit from the great experience that Randy and I had. Once again, thank you so much.
-Claudio Reda - Winnipeg, MB
—————————————
Being a woman of retirement age who has never done this type of trip, I heartily congratulate and thank the staff and our extremely competent guide, Points, for a really great trip. Fishing was excellent, food is superb, and the shorelunches are melt-in-your-mouth perfect! Accommodations are rustic, clean, and just lovely. Thank you!
-Mary J Campbell - Waterville, OH
—————————————
Had a wonderful 4 days at Aikens Lake. Been to several fishing camps but never one as nice as this. The staff is superb, the food great, the accommodations comfortable and I even got my first lake trout!
Want to say we thoroughly enjoyed “Points” as our guide. Hope he has a great season and a wonderful winter!
-Walt & Chip Bumb - Montpelier, OH
—————————————
Super, super, super… AGAIN!
Thanks to a wonderful staff - great adventure -
great guides - great chef - fabulous menu -
and even a dear dog!
-Dave and Kitty Chism - Maumelle, AR
—————————————
We just wanted to send you
Thanks again and take care,
-Sherri and Marc Grandmont, Winnipeg, MB
—————————————–
I had the pleasure of coordinating a fishing trip/business meeting at your lodge this year. Normally, coordinating a trip for eight people can be a challenge and this one wasn’t without a few along the way. Our trip was on, then off, then on again. The number of people changed from the original list and we had to change our dates close to when our trip was to occur. I have worked through changes such as these with other facilities, but never have I experienced such an accommodating couple to work with. You both handled the changes without a flinch, which was greatly appreciated.
Our group had never been to your lodge before, but had been to several others. Without exception, all felt that our experience at Aikens Lake Wilderness Lodge was much superior to other facilities that we have been to. From the time we arrived where we were greeted by all of your staff at the dock (very nice touch), until the time we fly out and were bid farewell again by all of your staff, our time at your facility was second to none. The accommodations were very comfortable, your staff were all very friendly and helpful, the fishing was outstanding, shore lunches were amazing (still thinking about the beer battered walleye) and the meals at the lodge were wonderful.
Clearly, you and the others that own/manage Aikens Lake Wilderness Lodge want to make your guests feel like they are special and you succeeded.
Our group will be back again to enjoy the hospitality and great Manitoba fishing that we now know exists at Aikens Lake.
Best regards,
Ross May
Dow AgroSciences Canada Inc.
——————————————-
To Best Sum Up our feelings about Aikens Lake is to say “Is this Heaven?” We must have said that about a dozen times. If you can’t come here & get your head right with the beautiful scenery, the tranquility, and the upmost in taking care of your guests, then you must already be a goner! This is truly the place to come for beauty, relaxation, a good bit of world class fishing. The staff quickly become good friends and your guides become mentors. God bless! ps - Pat, remember that you promised to stay till our return!
- Ray and Eliene Herderhorst, Cahioka, IL
——————————————-
In Less Than 12 Hours…
…flew from
…luxury van ride to
…float plane ride to Aikens Lake Wilderness Lodge,
…toured the facilities,
…enjoyed Happy Hour,
…had a terrific dinner,
…went fishing with a guide,
…and caught a Trophy Walleye!
Steve Meyer - Parker,
Retired Aerospace Executive
—————————————————————–
“Great trip! I’ve been to many other “trophy” lakes in Canada over the past 15 years and I must say Aikens was the best all around camp I’ve been to. Fishing was outstanding, accommodations were 5 star+, the staff was the best I’ve seen as were the guides and boats. A+ Grade on the Aikens Experience, we’ll be back. . . that’s for sure! You get more than you pay for at Aikens Lake Wilderness Lodge.”
- Bob Gillispie - Coralville, IA




Newsletter
