I’m sure most of you who have fished since an early age can vividly remember your first encounter with those underwater swimmers at the end of your fishing line. The childhood or mid-teen memories of casting a lure for the first time or going to that secret spot with Mom, Dad or Grandpa in search of the big one.

I personally remember, as a young kid, being picked up from school almost every afternoon by my father during the late spring or early fall, and I still recall the overwhelming anticipation I had knowing that we would be heading down to our favorite river to fish until dusk. These special memories hold a special level of excitement that every kid should have the opportunity to experience and enjoy – the first cast, the first fish, the quality time in the outdoors.

I have had the pleasure of working in the sport fishing industry for over 13 years now and have had countless angling experiences with kids coming to fish in northern Manitoba with their families. I always seem to be rewarded with an ear-to-ear grin from an eager youngster who has just caught the first, most, or biggest fish of their lives. I can honestly say that this particular feeling is nothing short of addictive.

Our family following at North Knife Lake Lodge has become quite diverse over the last few years. I feel that we are very fortunate to have such dedicated family customers who believe and focus on spending time in the outdoors and fishing with their kids. I truly believe that nothing educates more than positive outdoor experiences. Fishing in general allows our youth to enjoy something at their own pace; there are no overwhelming expectations to be met, and it’s an activity that encompasses many aspects of a positive outdoor experience or encounter.

The 2008 season brought many family-related success stories for those who included young kids in their fishing vacations to North Knife Lake Lodge. Big fish were often the most popular topic of conversation, with many impressive Master Angler size fish being caught by both first time and seasoned angling youngsters. But not far off were the tales of local sights and sounds: cow and calf moose, hovering eagles, howling wolves and the unforgettable sunsets that displayed colors unimaginable to some.

Fly fishing lessons, banana boat rides and evening walks down our winding sand trails were often the pinnacle of the young one’s outdoor adventure. I think
it really comes down to our youth having the opportunity to experience something different, something outside of everyday normal life – nature at its finest – readily available to experience and enjoy – unique opportunities that are a sure to develop and sustain lasting memories and a true appreciation for the simple things in life.

I would like to thank our customers for bringing their kids to North Knife Lake Lodge and giving them the opportunity to experience and enjoy a rare  angling and outdoor adventure. I hope that they enjoyed their time with us as much as we enjoyed having them. May they cherish those memories for many years to come and carry on the tradition in the future. And most importantly, always have fun!

This one’s for the kids…