I have been fishing during the past twenty three years throughout the provinces of Ontario and Quebec, as well as Mexico, the east coast of Canada and the New England states. By far my greatest fishing experiences have been at your lodge dating back to 1984 which in many cases include multiple yearly trips. Since your taking over from Jean Trivet, the service, set-up and accommodation at your lodge has gotten better and more enjoyable.

In my opinion, together with my family, friends and business associates, the fishing, setting of your lodge and overall scenery of the west arm of Lake Nipissing is quite simply the best that Northern Ontario fishing offers. Year after year, the fishing remains constant and plentiful, where my limit (catch & release) such as Northern Pike, can be readily caught within an hours time.

As indicated many times before, your lodge is well situated, picturesque, easily accessible. Our fishing parties over the years have caught hundreds of Walleye, Northern Pike, Bass including the elusive Muskie, with my own personal Muskie record a a thirty one pounder caught in 1999 (released).

I take great pleasure in talking about fishing and when people ask for a recommendation, the first words out of my mouth are “Memquisit Lodge”. The feedback from my recommendation from a following trip, has been without exception, positive and enjoyable.

As usual, I will be looking forward for one of my yearly highlights, a fishing trip and/or trips to Memquisit Lodge. Thanks again for the great service, hospitality and just as important, your friendship.

Emmanuel Chris Rebelo

Andrew (my son) and I would like to thank you for the wonderful three days we had at the Lodge. I know that I told all of you that I have been coming to Memquisit Lodge for nearly 25 years (when owned and operated by the Trivett’s) but the past two years of your ownership have showed us that the Lodge is carrying on the tradition - no - has improved upon the congeniality, thoroughness and hospitality that a “great” Lodge, or :retreat” should encompass.

Although we participated in only one aspect - fishing - our conversations with other fisherman and hunters indicated that they are very pleased with your service, food and operations. I think that it may take me a few weeks to lose the extra pounds tat are attributed to your fine down-home cooking and the unique shore lunches.

On our last day, we toured the cabins that were vacant (as it was the last week in October) and noticed the extensive remodeling that you have undertaken. The renovated house-keeping cabins look great, take advantage of the marvelous scenery and views to the West Arm of Lake Nipissing and provide all types of conveniences.

You should be very proud of what you have accomplished in just 2 years.

It took us one-day to travel from Cleveland but two-days to return. We were exhausted but refreshed and contemplated turning around about one-half dozen times. Last night we cooked some of the 12 Pickerel we caught amongst our group and will send a recipe that I created for serving such a sweet tasting fish. Andrew wanted me to reproduce the shore lunch but I said that we had to leave that to the numerous fishing guides, their training and techniques.

We would never have found the secret pockets where the Pickerel hang out without Denis and Frank advising us on bait-type for that time of year, and how to approach the spots. And, it was all done with a feeling of being a part of the family.

Andrew has taken the photograph of the prized catch to school and is looking forward to receiving his fish once mounted. It’s great to know that all fish types and sizes have increased over the past 10 years and 6 and 7 pounders are the norm.

As for your summer activities, I will consult with my daughter and wife on the many activities for young children that they have created for summer entertainment and woodland hands-on learning experiences. I trust your own summer staff who are trained in the care of children of all ages will find some ideas useful and fun to initiate.

One last point. Andrew and I were trying to remember the meaning of the word “Memquisit” Andrew thought it was “Lost bay of the north” and I thought it was “Hidden bay of the north” Perhaps you would let us know of the true Indian meaning and a bit of the history. In addition, since his event was digitally recorded, could you forward an e-mail for my wife and I to brag about. Andrew took the copies to school.

All the very best for the remaining part of the year, Christmas, New Year’s and for next year. We will definitely be back about the same time (Canadian Thanksgiving or Columbus Day here in the States) What a relaxing vacation. We look forward to seeing you at the Exposition in March in Cleveland.