Send us your Aikens Lake testimonial (click here)

Dear Pit and Julie,

 

Russ and I want to thank you and your staff for our wonderful experience at Aikens Lake!  When I was notified by radio station WBAP 820 here in Dallas that I had won the trip, we had no idea what a great adventure it would be.  I have to admit that I was a little anxious about the trip; I wasn’t much of a fisherman, and my husband had fished only a few times since we married eleven years ago.  Neither of us had been on a fly-in fishing trip.  I’m happy to say that our anxieties were totally unfounded.  You and the staff made it clear from the beginning of our stay that your goal was to make our visit an enjoyable one, whether we wanted to fish, hike, explore, or simply relax.  Ironically, we wound up fishing all three days and enjoying every moment of it.  Our guide David was an expert fisherman and knew all the good fishing spots on the lake.  Even this novice caught several walleyes (one was 24 ½”!) during our first day.  We soon learned that our guide was also a marvelous cook when he prepared our shore lunch with our freshly caught fish.  We were hooked!  (Pardon the pun!)  At our request, David also took us on some short hikes and showed us several notable sites around the lake.  The lake is beautifully pristine, the accommodations are first rate, the staff members are super, and the food is incredibly delicious.  We had a wonderful time!  Thanks for the fantastic fly-in fishing experience; we’ll never forget it!

 

Nancy and Russ Warncke - Dallas, TX

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Hi Pit & Julie,

 

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

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“Greatest week of fishing in a decade! Thanks again! You guys run a class operation. Everything was top-notch, and what a quality fishery you guys manage! Even an amateur angler like me (who fouls his line in a prop one day and catches a trophy the next) enjoyed consistent action all week! And a shout out to all the staff whose courtesy, organization, and expertise made the trip all that more enjoyable! You guys rock!…”I’d also like to commend you on the quality of the photography (props to Pat and those waterproof Olympus cameras)! That totally brought it all together and was another example of the attention to customer service that you possess, and is lacking in most businesses today. Well done!

 

David Sone - Westchester, IL

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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

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Pit & Julie,

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

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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

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Pit & Julie,Just wanted to send a quick note to say thanks for a great three days.  The fishing, friends, and food were outstanding.  You folks out-do yourselves at every level.  Fishing was fantastic and the staff always goes that extra mile to make everything perfect.  It’s like Disney World for the fisherman!  Look forward to seeing you next year.

 —- Darrell Morgan, Sioux Lookout, ON

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“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

 

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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

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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

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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

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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

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Pit, Julie, and Crew,

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.

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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)

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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)

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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

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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

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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 Toyota’s Call of the Tundra. Every aspect of the Aikens experience exceeded our lofty expectations. The fantastic fishing, great meals, beautiful accommodations and the amazing staff all added up to a first-class experience.

 

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 Aikens Lake and we look forward to continuing our relationship in the future.

 

Sincerely,

 

Ron Ball

Chairman, Prairie Toyota Dealers Advertising Association

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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Hey Pit & Julie,

We just wanted to send you an email to thank you again for a wonderful time! It is difficult to find the words to express how much fun we had and how much we appreciate everything you did! We cannot stop talking about our experience at the Lodge! Your outstanding staff treated us so well; made us feel at home. Mitch was the perfect guide for us! We had a such a great time with him! There was so much laughing, conversation and shared interests, the days just flew by! Just thinking about our trip makes us smile! We have great pictures of our experience, both from you (and Mitch) and our own pictures and have been sharing them with everyone!

Thanks again and take care,

-Sherri and Marc Grandmont, Winnipeg, MB

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Julie & Pit,

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.

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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

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In Less Than 12 Hours…

…flew from Denver to Winnipeg,

…luxury van ride to Silver Falls,

…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, Colorado

Retired Aerospace Executive

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“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