2025 Season in Review

How do we describe the 2025 season at Aikens Lake?

Resilient. Grateful. Optimistic… and maybe just a little stubborn.

There’s no question that 2025 tested us in ways we never would have scripted. A mid-summer wildfire forced us to pause operations for several weeks, cutting into what is already a short northern season. We’ve already shared the details of that chapter (and promise not to rehash it here), but if you missed it, you can read more here: https://aikenslake.com/after-the-fire/.

What matters most now is how the season responded — and how it finished. As it happens, hope really is everlasting.

Before the interruption, the season got off to a terrific start. Spring fishing reminded us all why those early weeks are so special at Aikens. Hungry fish, quiet shorelines, long daylight hours, and guides who couldn’t wipe the smiles off their faces. It was one of those springs that makes you think, “Yep… this is why we do this.”

One moment from early in the season perfectly captured that spirit. The Mauceri group managed to drop a phone off the dock — where it promptly disappeared to the bottom of the lake. Fast forward more than 24 hours, a patient netting effort, and the phone was retrieved. Against all odds, it powered on… and had been receiving messages the entire time it was underwater. Proof, perhaps, that at Aikens Lake it’s not just fish that can grow in the water — apparently even text strings have a chance down there.

Back at camp, the kitchen once again became a highlight of daily life. Chef Colin continued to impress with creative, comforting meals that somehow tasted even better after a full day on the water.

Linnea’s baking quickly became a daily talking point — and in some cases, a competitive sport. (Pro tip: if you hesitate, that last cinnamon bun will not wait for you.) Guest feedback made it clear that the kitchen at Aikens is operating at a very high level, and we couldn’t agree more.

As always, none of this happens without an exceptional team. Our guides and staff once again proved why they are the backbone of this place. Their professionalism, adaptability, good humor, and genuine care for our guests showed through all season long — especially when circumstances required patience and flexibility from everyone. Quite simply, they rose to the occasion.

When we were able to reopen, the final month of the season was outstanding. Thanks to an enormous behind-the-scenes effort, camp was brought back into pre-fire condition quickly and thoughtfully.

Guests returning that final stretch were met with a camp that felt familiar, welcoming, and very much alive. Fishing was excellent, spirits were high, and there was a shared appreciation for simply being back where we belong.

That late-season push also saw the completion of an important project: a new staff cabin for Jus and Kailee. Investing in the people who invest so much of themselves into Aikens has always mattered to us, and finishing this build during a year like 2025 felt especially meaningful.

Perhaps the most humbling part of the season was the response from you, our guests. The understanding, encouragement, and loyalty shown during the closure meant more to us than we can properly express. Many of you rebooked for 2026 almost immediately, sent kind notes, and reminded us that Aikens is more than a destination; it’s a community. That support carried us through the year.

Looking ahead, it’s impossible not to feel optimistic. Northern forests regenerate, friendships deepen, perspectives sharpen, and experiences gain meaning. Seasons like this deepen our appreciation for just how special the Aikens fishery truly is — and how fortunate we are to share it, thoughtfully and responsibly, with those who care about it as much as we do.

We’re excited to watch that growth unfold in the coming years, and even more excited to share it with you. The lake endures. The team is strong. And we remain committed to delivering the kind of experience that keeps people coming back, year after year.

If 2026 (or beyond) is on your horizon, we’d love to help you start planning.

Thank you, as always, for being part of the Aikens story.