Dan Lecuyer Owner/Manager Professional Master Guide Wildlife Educator, Whitetail, Moose, Bear, Waterfowl     Dan grew up in the hunting lodge business. Assisting other veteran guides on their hunts at a young age, learning most of his skills through his father who started the lodge in the mid 40s. Dan's knowledge of BIG GAME Animals, Waterfowl and their habitat has produced a great many super hunts for his many clients. As well, Dan's abilities have helped train more than 35 professional working guides. Dan has done many seminars on big game hunting as well as water fowling and written articles as well. Dan oversees all aspects of his clients' hunts as well as being a working guide himself. At the lodge each evening to help answer any questions at days end, as well as insuring all goes smooth for both guest as well as staff.. Gordy Belvin Professional Master Guide White Tail, Moose, Bear, Waterfowl      Gordy came to us with a vast amount of hunting skills. Raised in northern Quebec he started out guiding for caribou, moose, bear and waterfowl. Then on to Anticost guiding for deer. He is one of the best in the business at calling in big bull moose as he has guided bow hunters for moose for years. Hunting and trapping most all his life, he brings us a tremendous amount of high quality skills which has helped in producing some giant bull moose, trophy bucks, pig black bears and fast action waterfowl shooting for his clients for over the last 20 years. His love for the bush and excellent scouting abilities have paid off handsomely for our guests. Lorne Jackson Master Guide Whitetail, Moose      Lorne has over 20 years big game guiding experience. He is known by many of his hunting buddies as 'Lucky', always seems to be in the right place at the right time. Lorne is an electrical engineer by trade. Taking time away from this to pursue something he loves to do each fall. With excellent big bush sense, hunting skills and a vast knowledge of Whitetails, Moose and their habitat. This has provided many trophies for the past clients.

Rich Organ Professional Master Guide Whitetail, Moose, Bear, Waterfowl     Rich's attitude and bush wise skills, have placed him highly respected by both his clients as well as his fellow professionals. With over 26 years experience on Moose, Waterfowl and 12 years experience guiding for Whitetail and Bear. An avid outdoors man, with a great knowledge for the bush and the animals. One of our top deer guides the past 3 years. Jerry Lecuyer Master Guide Whitetail, Moose     Dan's brother Jerry has over 27 years in deer and moose hunting. He grew up in the business and has had excellent success in his ability to call Big Moose. Taking time off each fall to guide in Big Bush as well as Farmland Whitetail hunts. During this coming moose and deer season, let Jerry help put you on your next trophy. Wayne Spingle Professional Master Guide Whitetail, Moose, Bear, Waterfowl      Wayne has over 15 years experience in Moose and waterfowl hunts. In addition to his 10 years Whitetail deer hunting, his specialty being Big Bush and Island Whitetails. His keen sense and knowledge of Big deer habitat combines with his location and tracking skills are second to non His guests continue to harvest trophy Whitetails, Moose, Bear and fast action Water fowling experiences Everett Jackson Master Guide Whitetail, Moose     'EV' has over 35 years experience in Big Bush hunting for Whitetails and Moose. Not many know it any better. Coming from a long line of hunters in a large family. is skills in locating, tracking are some of the best in the business. Ev is a master mechanic by trade. We are very fortunate to have his services during the fall hunting season.

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS With ......... Dan “ Canada Dan “ Lecuyer

Whitetail Deer

The following questions are those that have been most asked by hunters inquiring and coming on one of our world class hunts. They may help in answering several questions you your self may have. However, as we treat each hunt and each hunter as important as the last, we welcome any questions you may have in regards to our facilities, and our trophy hunt.


Q: Is your deer hunting any good and what kind of deer could I expect hunting with you?

A: Yes, our deer hunting is great! To understand just what makes it so good. Let me first tell you a little about our location and deer populations. We are locate 70 miles north of Minnesota ( U.S.A ) and only 60 miles east of the bordering Province of Manitoba. North Dakota is just to the south west approx. 70 miles. The province of Ontario { as of latest figures 2004 ) hosts the largest white tail deer population in all of Canada. However, those deer are split into basically 3 distinct groups. The lower south eastern area in the farmland country. The deer of Manitoulin island and our deer herd here in north western Ontario. Travel 70 miles north of our lodge....no deer! Travel 70 miles east of our lodge .... deer are thinner than blueberries in December. You would have to drive almost 16 hours east of our lodge to get back into white tail deer.
So, we are located in a very high density deer zone. However it’s not that easy a place to hunt as it is also the heaviest big bush country one will ever hunt in. The combination of the larger number of animals, combined with the tough access to the animals is what makes for our having a lot of super size, older deer.
Our average deer harvested, anywhere from low 140's ( B&C ) to mid 170's typical ( B&C ) and all the way up to 250's class non typical ( B&C ).
Over the last 6 seasons we have helped our hunters maintain above 70% actual harvest on animals in this size class.


Q: I have herd by some as well as reading. That the deer in your area are very large. Is this true and just how big are they?

A: Yes, the deer here are the heaviest bodied deer in all of north America. The reason for this is quite simple. We are located directly south of Hudson Bay. International Falls, Mn. ( called the ice box of the U.S. of A. ) is just to our south. The father south, east or the farther west you will go, the warmer it gets in the winters! You can see this by watching your weather map on TV. This is why our deer have heavy bodies, to with stand the cold and make it through the very tough winter. Average body weigh, field dressed, 250 lb’s however each year we see a few that scale over the 300lb mark! We weigh each deer!!

Q: you mean they are bigger than say Saskatchewan or Alberta deer?

A: Yes, they most definitely are ! Again, the weather to the west and east is much milder and the animals do not require the body mass as they do here. You can ask anyone who’s hunted them here, they’ll tell you..... their horses!

Q: how many hunters do you take in a year?

A: We try to watch this very close. Although we can accommodate a lot of hunters. We choose to not take more than 12 hunters on either of our deer hunts at one time. This gives our guests the very best service, excellent amount of hunting areas, little or no pressure, as well as fresh areas for each group. Also, we can easily service the hunters we have so that everyone has an equal shooting opportunity. Our hunts run from around the first part of Oct. to mid Nov. each year. Our Big Bush hunt being a fully guided 6 day hunt. Farmland a 7.5 day fully guided hunt.

Q: Why is there such a difference between the Big Bush Island hunt and the Farmland hunt?

A: With the Big Bush and Island hunt. We hunt on over 1 million acres of government ground, having no lease fees. Guide to hunter ratio on the Big Bush and Island hunt is 1 x 3. The farmland, is all private and we pay for exclusive hunting rights for our clients each year. The guide to hunter ratio on the Farmland hunt is 1 x 2.

Q: you spoke of accommodations and service. What exactly do you have and what do you provide in your deer hunting package?

A: That’s a terrific question as Iv herd a number of horror stories over the years. You know the typical bad hunting story like............
” we had to stay in a trashy place and bunk with people we didn’t know, then drive somewhere else to eat, then wait for a guide to show up late, his equipment wasn’t working properly, we were grouped in with other hunters, guide didn’t seem to know much about nothing and didn’t seem to really care either, stands weren’t like they said, we sat over the same bait pile that 3 groups did before us not to mention, not enough fresh areas to hunt, all the extra charges and add-ons we received after we arrived !!!! “ There are plenty of horror stories just like these few mentioned.

So what sets us apart?
First, we are a 5 star fishing lodge during the summer season. So, our hunting clients may take advantage of super accommodations, your own cabin is provided with single beds, insulated, electric heat, 4 piece baths, room service. We own our own equipment all is either new or late model. Our guides are on our staff full time. You meals are prepared in our own 2,000 square foot main lodge. Our package is truly all inclusive and any extras are clearly stated. We furnish cabin, meals, airport pickup and return, pro staff guides, transportation to and from hunting areas, all top quality stands, tracking, trophy care and caping and lots more. We are full time outfitters and we have a major investment here, maintaining high standards at all times.


Q: How long have you been a big game outfitter? Are you licensed? insured?

A: We are fully licensed outfitters and also carry insurance.
Iv owned my business here, “ Lecuyer’s Lodge “ since 1984. However, I grew up in this business and started guiding with my dad and brothers at a very young age. Came up through the ranks as they say and have learned a lot. Still learn a little something new each time I go out!
Even more important though, is the fact that our families the original founders of our lodge. From the ground up. Wild game has always played a role in our life, either providing our food or allowing us to guide and accommodate big game hunters from around the world. There are probably less than a hand full, of the original owner operators still in this business. Most all the the old good ones have slowly died off. I personally believe no matter what type of hunt your on... experience of the outfitter can make all the difference for the client!

Q: Do you use baiting or dogs on your hunts?

A: NO, we absolutely do not! We pride ourselves with being one of Canada’s TOP FAIR CHASE outfitters for White Tail deer. In fact, if you notice most hunting mag’s that you read now days. You will find some article on fair chase hunts, walk and stalk, like they are something new... go figure. We ( my grand father, father, uncles, brothers and I ) have hunted pretty much the same way for over 70 years here now. It’s not new to us! Now they say, the fair chase hunt is becoming the hottest new hunt style going, go figure!

Q: What do you mean fair chase hunt? What exactly is your style of hunting?

A: Well to start with. We do not chase deer down with dogs nor do we use baiting. We start with good old hard work. Lots of walking through the bush, and even more walking, Some places we may hunt are very traditional, in that we can pretty much count from year to year a big hoss will move in. But for the most part we are constantly searching out places. Keeping eye open every day of the year. Our PRE SCOUTING IS 90% of our clients hunt! Then of course, there is the 10% luck factor, eh!
We hunt the mornings in stands. Then a little over 2 hour after light we like to move the hunters to some trail systems for a slow walk. Perhaps on the way to another stand, or just a walk though an area we have gone through ( everything is marked ) earlier and found a nice buck. Then evening we like the stands again.

Q: Hunting deer on foot? Do your hunters ever harvest any that way?

A: Most certainly they do. In fact approx. 40% of our deer are shot on foot! This is what people seem to think is some new style of hunting technique that’s come about. The newest craze so to speak. My guides and me kind of get a kick out of this, as we have hunted like this forever so we know it works! Just has to be done right, in the right locations.


Q: What kind of hassles is there in bring my gun into Canada? Are there any costs?

A: The Government of Canada has each non resident complete a form if you are going to be bring a weapon into Canada. The cost of this form is $50.00 CND funds ( approx. $30.00 U.S. ) You may bring several per hunter at no additional cost. It is really no big deal. The form requests your name, address, phone number, type of weapon you are bring into the country, action on weapon, barrel length, purpose of bring weapon in, dates you will be in the country, border crossing you will be entering Canada.

Q: How do I get this paper work? Where do I send it to?

A: We forward to each hunter a most complete hunters booking kit. This is filled with lots of information including; brief itinerary, suggested personal items to bring along, some laws and rules for entering Canada, updated gun laws, the exact forms required to fill out for bring your weapons into Canada, separate paper work with exact fax numbers to get pre approval for entering with your weapons. This is a very important thing ( pre approval form ) as it will save valuable time entering Canada. We happen to be located near on of very few border crossings in all of Canada that allow pre approval. This saves our hunting clients tons of valuable time, as average crossing time is only about 5 min. per hunter with pre approval!

Q: Speaking on the guns, what size caliber would you suggest to bring?

A: I recommend, the style rifled shot gun with slug, 30-06, 270, 7mm, 300mag. These will insure a good knock down power which is important with larger bodied animals.

Q: Do you allow non hunters, say wives, girl friends etc. to come along? What would be the costs?

A: Yes, we have a very beautiful place here, clean cabins, beautiful main lodge and we welcome non hunters to join with you. There is a daily charge of $100.00 per non hunter per day plus tax. Also, there is a two person ( hunters ) minimum per hunting party. Anyone coming by themselves will be charged a two person rate. This is because we do not group hunters up, as well we are committing complete services individually to each group so our costs are much higher.

Q: When are we taken to our stands and when do we return to the lodge? Do we return to the
lodge for lunch? What are legal shooting times? Is there hunting allowed on Sudays?

A: Your guides will have you in your stands a good hour before legal shooting time. You are out in the field hunting the entire day, bring your lunch out with you. Then you’ll return back to the lodge well after dark as we hunt till 30 minutes after dark. Legal shooting time is half hour before sun rise, to half hour after sunset. We keep sun rise, sunset charts at the lodge. In Ontario you can hunt on Sundays.

Q: Is the guide with me the whole time and if not how will he be able to know where I am and how can I contact him when I down my buck?

A: Your guides leave out with you in the morning. They are with you and your group the entire day. Not right on top of you, but keeping within an ear shot of you and able to help out at a moments notice. At the lodges expense, we have purchased the very best in long distant radios which each hunter is outfitted with for your entire hunt. The guides have these radios as well, so you have the ability to be in constant contact with your guide at all times.

Q: When I'm lucky enough to harvest a trophy buck with you, say in my first few days hunting. What else would there be for me to do to fill in my weeks stay?

A: You will have several choices! We can provide at no charge to you, a 16' lund boat with new 25hp merc motor, including gas for you to enjoy some fantastic fishing with. We have super fall walleye, bass, pike, muskie and crappie fishing here. Also, you may decide to go ruffled grouse hunting as we have a lot here with plenty of trails to walk. The only addition cost would be your licenses, approx. $22.00 for fishing and $58.00 for grouse ( U.S. )

Q: What happens after I shoot my trophy buck. To the head and rack? To the meat?

A: We will help field dress the animal, help get your trophy back to camp and hung up. We also take trophy care doing all the capping and removing the antlers for you. We can even send your trophy off to one of 2 of the best taxidermist at no additional cost to you. They will then contact you directly and you will pay them for the taxidermy work. You can have us de-bone the animal for you if you wish to take the meat back home. Cost for our de-boning is $55.00 ( U.S.) Per deer. Or, we can provide the wrapping paper for you at no charge and you can chose to do the cutting yourself. If you are not wanting any of the meat. We will gladly find someone who will appreciate the meat (at no cost to you) and we guarantee, nothing will be wasted.

Q: Do you have Timber wolves there and can I harvest one? If so, what additional costs are there?

A: Yes, because of our high density of deer we have a rather large number of Timber wolves. Each hunter may harvest a Timber wolf at no additional cost!

Q: Ok, so you have a good deer hunting package, but what are the extra costs , add on's, hidden costs and are there any trophy fees?

A: The only additional costs to our hunting package is as stated, licenses (deer approx. $130.00 ),
Tax 11.5%, Gratuities, fees for bring fire arms into Canada ( approx. $35.00 U.S. ) export permit for taking trophy deer out of province ( approx. $25.00 U.S. ) butchering of meat and taxidermy, transportation to our lodge ( free airport pickup return from International Falls MN. ) There are absolutely no hidden costs, or add on's as well we have no extra charges for trophy fees.

Q: Do you have references available and are some from hunter who did not actually make a kill?

A: Yes, I think it very important that anyone who is planning a big game hunt to indeed ask for references. Not only on names of hunters that harvested a deer because the hunter who bags a big buck is going to say great things anyway. More importantly I think you should ask for ames of guests who have hunted who did not harvest a buck. These people will help to confirm the quality of the outfitters place, equipment, meals, guides, whether the outfitter new his stuff and worked hard. Also, was everything as the outfitter said it would be when they hunted with him. Nothing is a guarantee,.... however good hunts don’t happen by chance!

Trophy Moose

Q: Is your moose hunting any good and what kind of moose could I expect hunting with you?

A: Yes, our moose hunting is great! To understand just what makes it so good. Let me first tell you a little about our location. We are locate 70 miles north of Minnesota ( U.S.A ) and only 60 miles east of the bordering Province of Manitoba. North Dakota is just to the south west approx. 70 miles. The province of Ontario { as of latest figures 2004) hosts the largest moose population in all of Canada. However it’s not that easy a place to hunt as it is also the heaviest big bush country one will ever hunt in. Hills, swamps, beaver ponds, marsh and lakes. The combination of the larger number of animals, combined with the tough access to the animals is what makes for our having some terrific moose. Our average moose harvested, anywhere from low 30" to mid 50" racks

Q: I have herd by some, as well as reading. That the moose in your area are very large. Is this true and just how big are they?

A: Yes, the moose here are the 2nd largest, in all of north America. The reason for this is quite simple. We are located directly south of Hudson Bay. International Falls, Mn. is just to our south ( called the ice box of the U.S. of A. ). The father south, east or the farther west you will go, the warmer it gets in the winters! You can see this by watching your weather map on TV. This is why our moose have heavy bodies, to with stand the cold and make it through the very tough winter. Average standing body weigh for a bull moose in our area approx. 1100lb's and we have had client harvest moose up to 1500lb's

Q: you mean they are bigger than say Quebec, Newfoundland moose?

A: Yes, they most definitely are ! Again, the weather to the east is much milder for longer periods and the animals do not require the body mass as they do here. You can ask anyone who’s hunted them here, they’ll tell you..... their horses!

Q: What time of year do you do your hunts?

A: Well if you are a bow or muzzleloader hunter. We will like to have you come in the week before rifle season opens. This will normally place you and your group as close to being on the rut as you can be. We like this as we [ our pro guides ] can use a calling to bring them in close range. If using rifle only, we try to schedule your hunt as close to opening week as possible. If not then we can still hunt we just use a little different methods. The moose will also come into, what's called a second rut. This happens approx. 3 weeks to one month after the first rut, and another great time to hunt. This period of time, we also normally have snow on the ground which can allow us to pick up on the freshest of tracks.

Q: Do you hunt moose from your boats, Trucks, where are they hunted from your camp?

A: We have tags available exclusive to us, in a couple different moose management zones. Some parts of these zones we do make use of our 21' cruiser boats with the 150hp motors to make access easier. Also, we have some freighter canoes for when our guides need to go down any river systems. Then, we have a very large network of logging roads. We access these using our 4 wheel drive trucks and suburbans. we have a number of 4x4 ATV's as well to help either get our hunters deeper into the bush as well as help in extracting the game once our hunters are successful. All our hunting areas are within 60 miles of our lodge.

Q: Do I have to enter any kind of draw system to get a moose tag to hunt with you? Can anyone just go to your area and buy a moose license?

A: There is no draw type system needed for non resident moose hunters. Anyone can purchase a moose hunting license. However, they must have a validation tag attached to the license before they can hunt. These validation tags are only available from a limited number of licensed outfitters, like ourselves.

Q: Do I have to share my tag with my hunting partner like in Quebec, were you can only shoot one moose per 2 hunters? Or does each hunter get to have their own moose tag?

A: Each member of your hunting group will have their own license to harvest moose though us. We do however have a limited number of bull tags, so larger parties will have a combination bulls and calf tag quota.

Q: How many hunters do you take in a year?

A: Basically we hunt only 5 to 10 moose hunters per year.

Q: What kind of hassles is there in bring my gun into Canada? Are there any costs?

A: The Government of Canada has each non resident complete a form if you are going to be bring a weapon into Canada. The cost of this form is $50.00 CND funds ( approx. $30.00 U.S. ) You may bring several per hunter at no additional cost. It is really no big deal. The form requests your name, address, phone number, type of weapon you are bring into the country, action on weapon, barrel length, purpose of bring weapon in, dates you will be in the country, border crossing you will be entering Canada.

Q: How do I get this paper work? Where do I send it to?

A: We forward to each hunter a most complete hunters booking kit. This is filled with lots of information including; brief itinerary, suggested personal items to bring along, some laws and rules for entering Canada, updated gun laws, the exact forms required to fill out for bring your weapons into Canada, separate paper work with exact fax numbers to get pre approval for entering with your weapons. This is a very important thing ( pre approval form ) as it will save valuable time entering Canada. We happen to be located near on of very few border crossings in all of Canada that allow pre approval. This saves our hunting clients tons of valuable time, as average crossing time is only about 5 min. per hunter with pre approval!

Q: Speaking on the guns, what size caliber would you suggest to bring?

A: I recommend, 30-06, 270, 7mm, 300mag. These will insure a good knock down power which is important with larger bodied animals.

Q: Do you allow non hunters, say wives, girl friends etc. to come along? What would be the costs?

A: Yes, we have a very beautiful place here, clean cabins, beautiful 2,000 square foot main lodge and we welcome non hunters to join with you. There is a daily charge of $100.00 per non hunter, per day, plus tax. Also, there is a two person ( hunters ) minimum per hunting party, however, on our moose hunts, we do host one on one hunts. Anyone coming by themselves will be charged a slightly higher rate. This is because we do not group hunters up, as well we are committing complete services individually to each group so our costs are much higher.

Q: When are we taken to our stands and when do we return to the lodge? Do we return to the lodge for lunch? What are legal shooting times? Is there hunting allowed on Sundays?

A: Your guides will have you in your stands / ground blinds, a good hour before legal shooting time. You are out in the field hunting the entire day, bring your lunch out with you. Then you’ll return back to the lodge well after dark as we hunt till 30 minutes after dark. Legal shooting time is half hour before sun rise, to half hour after sunset. We keep sun rise, sunset charts at the lodge. In Ontario you can hunt on Sundays.

Q: Is the guide with me the whole time and if not how will he be able to know where I am and how can I contact him when I down my Trophy moose?

A: Your guides leave out with you in the morning. They are with you and your group the entire day. Not right on top of you, but keeping within an ear shot of you and able to help out at a moments notice. At the lodges expense, we have purchased the very best in long distant radios which each hunter is outfitted with for your entire hunt. The guides have these radios as well, so you have the ability to be in constant contact with your guide at all times.

Q: When I'm lucky enough to harvest a trophy moose with you, say in my first few days hunting. What else would there be for me to do to fill in my weeks stay?

A: You will have several choices! We can provide at no charge to you, a 16' lund boat with new 25hp merc motor, including gas for you to enjoy some fantastic fishing. We have super fall walleye, bass, pike, muskie and crappie fishing here. Also, you may decide to go ruffled grouse hunting as we have a lot here with plenty of trails to walk. The only addition cost would be your licenses, approx. $22.00 for fishing and $58.00 for grouse ( U.S. )

Q: What about any other big game combination hunts. Do you offer moose/deer?

A: Yes, each year we have a limited number of 9 day combination moose and trophy whitetail deer hunts. This really is the Ultimate in any combination, Trophy Big Game hunts in north America today !

Q: What happens after I shoot my trophy moose. To the head and rack? To the meat?

A: We will help field dress the animal, help get your trophy back to camp and hung up. We also take trophy care doing all the capping and removing the antlers for you. We can even send your trophy off to one of 2 of the best taxidermist at no additional cost to you. They will then contact you directly and you will pay them for the taxidermy work. You can have one of a couple local butchers, de-bone the animal [ at your expense ] for you, if you wish to take the meat back home. Or, we can provide the wrapping paper for you at no charge and you can chose to do the cutting yourself. If you are not wanting any of the meat. We will gladly find someone who will appreciate the meat [at no cost to you] and guarantee nothing will be wasted.

Q: What about the meat. I hear that they have a great taste. But I also understand there is a hassle getting it over the border?

A: You are right about the taste. A higer percentage of hunters prefer the taste of moose over elk, caribou etc. There is no problems with bring the meat from your moose into the U.S or Europe. The meat only has to be de-boned and there is a certificate [ we provide the hunter ] that has to be filled out and left with customs, that's all!

Q: Do you have Timber wolves there and can I harvest one? If so, what additional costs are there?

A: Yes, because of our high density of deer and moose, we have a rather large number of Timber wolves. Each hunter may harvest a Timber wolf at no additional cost!

Q: Ok, so you have a good moose hunting package, but what are the extra costs , add on's, hidden costs and are there any trophy fees?

A: The only additional costs to our hunting package is as stated, licenses (moose approx. $285.00 , deer approx. $130.00 ), Tax 11.5%, Gratuities, fees for bring fire arms into Canada ( approx. $35.00 U.S. ) export permit for taking trophy moose, deer out of province (approx. $25.00 U.S. each ) butchering of meat and taxidermy, transportation to our lodge ( free airport pickup return from International Falls MN. ) There are absolutely no hidden costs, or add on's as well we have no extra charges for trophy fees. All our rates are listed in U.S. funds.

Q: Do you have references available and are some from hunter who did not actually make a kill?

A: Yes, I think it very important that anyone who is planning a big game hunt to indeed ask for references. Not only on names of hunters that harvested a moose because the hunter who bags a big moose is going to say great things anyway. More importantly I think you should ask for names of guests who have hunted who did not harvest a moose. These people will help to confirm the quality of the outfitters place, equipment, meals, guides, whether the outfitter new his stuff and worked hard, whether there was fresh moose sign where they hunted. Also, was everything as the outfitter said it would be when they hunted with him. Nothing is a guarantee,.... however good hunts don’t happen by chance!

Waterfowl & Grouse

The following questions are those that have been most asked by hunters inquiring and coming on one of our world class hunts. They may help in answering several questions you your self may have. However, as we treat each hunt and each hunter as important as the last, we welcome any questions you may have in regards to our facilities, and our trophy hunt.


Q: Is your duck hunting any good and what kind of waterfowl shooting could I expect hunting with you?

A: Yes, our duck hunting is great! To understand just what makes it so good. Let me first tell you a little about our location and duck populations. We are locate 70 miles north of Minnesota
( U.S.A ) and only 60 miles east of the bordering Province of Manitoba. North Dakota is just to the south west approx. 70 miles. We are the largest lake of any next to the prairies. However it’s not that easy a place to hunt, as the lake is huge with thousands of back bays and islands. The combination of the larger number of natural nesting sites, tremendous forage, combined with the tough access to the different areas is what makes for our having a lot of super water fowling. Your group will never have to hunt the same areas with us, more than one time. Never, with other hunters. Your shots will all be close range as this is the first time these birds have ever been shot at. Being at the head of the Mississippi fly way, we are located where the major source of ducks are every year?

Q: How would you say you hunting stacks up against say Saskatchewan or Alberta ducks?

A: Yes, we most definitely can and do ! We are a world class water fowl location. Ducks may feed in fields...... but ducks always need water, and they like lots of water! Not counting the great lakes, Lake Winnipeg or Manitoba, great slave or great bear all farther north. We are the largest piece of water next to the prairies! We are also the largest producer of natural wild rice ... which ducks love! Plus, for the diver ducks, we have a tremendous amount of fresh forage in our waters. Wet years, or dry years our duck hunting is tops! You can’t find this anywhere else!  With the ever changing weather patterns we are seeing each year, prairie pot hole shooting is not as stable as our hunts are. Our hunters harvest bird's, year in, year out!

Q: What are your limits, for ducks and grouse?

A: Ducks are 6 per day 12 possession and grouse are 5 per day 15 possession.

Q: how many hunters do you take in a year?

A: We try to watch this very close. Although we can accommodate a lot of hunters. We choose to not take more than 4 groups of hunters at one time. This gives our guests the very best service, excellent amount of hunting areas, little or no pressure, as well as fresh areas for each group. Also, we can easily service the hunters we have so that everyone has an equal shooting opportunity. Our hunts run from around mid Sept. to mid Nov. each year. With a minimum of 2 hunters to a max of 6 hunters per boat and we have 5 - 21' boats with full tops and 150hp motors, extra large fuel tanks to take you to wherever the birds are. We also own a 6 person hovercraft.

Q: How are the accommodations laid out and service. What exactly do you have and what do you provide in your duck hunting package?


A: That’s a terrific question as Iv herd a number of horror stories over the years. You know the typical bad hunting story like............
” we had to stay in a trashy place and bunk with people we didn’t know, heat didn’t work in the place, water froze, dirty,had to wait for a guide to show up, his equipment wasn’t working properly, we were grouped in with other hunters, guide didn’t seem to know much about nothing and didn’t seem to really care either, we hunted areas already shot up by earlier groups, we never arrived out to the blinds till just about day light, all the extra charges and add-ons we received after we arrived, nothing was as they said prior to arrival !!!! “ There are plenty of horror stories just like these few mentioned.

So what sets us apart?
First, we are a 5 star fishing lodge during the summer season. So, our hunting clients may take advantage of super accommodations, your own cabin is provided with single beds, insulated, electric heat, 4 piece baths, room service. We own our own equipment all is either new or late model. Our guides are on our staff full time. You meals are prepared in our own 2,000 square foot main lodge, around your schedule. Our package is truly all inclusive and any extras are clearly stated. We furnish cabin, meals, pro staff guides, transportation to and from hunting areas, processing of all birds and fish lots more. We are full time outfitters and we have a major investment here, maintaining high standards at all times.


Q: How long have you been a water fowl outfitter? Are you licensed? insured?

A: We are fully licensed outfitters and also carry insurance.
Iv owned my business here, “ Lecuyer’s Lodge “ since 1984. Our Ontario Outfitter  number is #19943.  I grew up in this business and started guiding with my dad and brothers at a very young age. Came up through the ranks as they say and have learned a lot. Still learn a little something new each time I go out!   Iv two daughter's, ages 15, and 18, both have hunters safety and hunt with me now as well!
Important to all our clients as well, our experience, the fact that our families the original founders of our lodge, established in 1946, From the ground up. Wild game has always played a role in our families life, either providing our food and sporting enjoyment. To allowing us to guide and accommodate water fowl hunters from around the world. Hunting ... is a major part of our business, not a side line! There are probably less than a hand full, of the original owner operators still in this business. People who held a real feel and love for this way of life. Most all the the old good ones have slowly died off. I personally believe no matter what type of hunt your on ... experience of the outfitter can make all the difference for the client!

Q: Do you use baiting on your hunts?

A: NO, we absolutely do not! We pride ourselves with being one of Canada’s TOP FAIR CHASE outfitters for Duck hunts. We ( my grand father, father, uncles, brothers and I ) have hunted pretty much the same way for over 70 years here now. It’s not new to us! We use a lot of advance scouting to help put our clients on the ducks, we do not bait! We do make use of calls and decoys.

Q: What do you mean fair chase hunt? What exactly is your style of hunting?


A: Well to start with. We do not chase ducks down with boats nor do we use baiting. We start with good old hard work. Lots of scouting through lakes and ponds. Some places we may hunt are very traditional, in that we can pretty much count from year to year big bunches of duck will move in. But for the most part we are constantly searching out new places. The ducks themselves pretty much tell you in their own way, where they want to be. Keeping eye open every day of the year. Our PRE SCOUTING IS 90% of our clients hunt! Then of course, there is the 10% luck factor, eh!
We hunt the mornings and have you in your blinds a good hour before legal shooting time and are back to the docks by around 9:30 - 10 am with limits daily.


Q: What kind of hassles is there in bring my gun into Canada? Are there any costs?

A: The Government of Canada has each non resident complete a form if you are going to be bring a weapon into Canada. The cost of this form is $50.00 CND funds ( approx. $30.00 U.S. ) You may bring several per hunter at no additional cost. It is really no big deal. The form requests your name, address, phone number, type of weapon you are bring into the country, action on weapon, barrel length, purpose of bring weapon in, dates you will be in the country, border crossing you will be entering Canada.

Q: How do I get this paper work? Where do I send it to?

A: We forward to each hunter a most complete hunters booking kit. This is filled with lots of information including; brief itinerary, suggested personal items to bring along, some laws and rules for entering Canada, updated gun laws, the exact forms required to fill out for bring your weapons into Canada, separate paper work with exact fax numbers to get pre approval for entering with your weapons. This is a very important thing ( pre approval form ) as it will save valuable time entering Canada. We happen to be located near on of very few border crossings in all of Canada that allow pre approval. This saves our hunting clients tons of valuable time, as average crossing time is only about 5 min. per hunter with pre approval!

Q: Speaking on the guns, what size and what size shots and loads would you suggest to bring?

A: I recommend, 20 or 12 shot guns. Shots must be non toxic steel, bismuth, etc. Of course steel shot being the least expensive I would suggest bring #5 or #6 in these. These will insure a good knock down power which is important with. Our northern birds which are very fat and heaved laden with pin feathers. For grouse #7 will work fine.

Q: Do you allow non hunters, say wives, girl friends etc. to come along? What would be the costs?

A: Yes, we have a very beautiful place here, clean cabins, beautiful main lodge and we welcome non hunters to join with you. There is a daily charge of $100.00 per non hunter per day plus tax. Also, there is a two person ( hunters ) minimum per hunting party. Anyone coming by themselves will be charged a two person rate. This is because we do not group hunters up, as well we are committing complete services individually to each group so our costs are much hire.

Q: When are we taken to our blinds and when do we return to the lodge? Do we return to the

lodge for lunch? What are legal shooting times?
A: Your guides will have you in your blinds a good hour before legal shooting time. You are out in the field hunting return back to the lodge around 9:30 - 10 am. Legal shooting time is half hour before sun rise, to half hour after sunset. We keep sun rise, sunset charts at the lodge.

Q: Is the guide with me the whole time?

A: The guide is with your party the entire duck hunt.


Q: When I'm lucky enough to harvest my duck limits, what else would there be for me to do to fill in my day and weeks stay?

A: You will have several choices! We can provide at no charge to you, a 16' lund boat with new 25hp merc motor, including gas for you to enjoy some fantastic fishing with. We have super fall walleye, bass, pike, muskie and crappie fishing here. Also, you may decide to go ruffled grouse hunting as we have a lot here with plenty of trails to walk. There are no additional charges for this.

Q: What happens after I shoot my duck limit for the two days possession but have booked a 5 day hunt? Do I have to stop shooting?

A: As we operate our hunts in a legal and ethical way. We will not allow you to possess more than your legal limit. However, if you are coming for a 5 day hunt. We will process the ducks for you in the following ways. The first 3 days of your hunt we will breast the birds, giving them to our cook who will marinate them wrapping them in bacon and slow barbeque them each day for the tastiest treats you’ll ever experience! The last 2 days we will pluck gut wash and wrap for you to take home. This keeps you legal, within your limits each day. Allowing you to hunt for the full 5 days you want to come for

Q: Ok, so you have a good duck hunting package, but what are the extra costs , add on's, hidden costs?

A: The only additional costs to our hunting package is as stated, Tax 11.5%, Gratuities, fees for bring fire arms into Canada ( approx. $35.00 U.S. ), taxidermy, transportation to our lodge. There are absolutely no hidden costs, or add on's as well we have no extra charges!

Q: Do you have references available and are some from hunters?

A: Yes, I think it very important that anyone who is planning a water fowl hunt, to indeed ask for references. These people will help to confirm the quality of the outfitters place, equipment, meals, guides, whether the outfitter new his stuff and worked hard. Also, was everything as the outfitter said it would be when they hunted with him. Nothing is a guarantee,.... however good hunts don’t happen by chance!


These are but a few questions some that our hunters ask. Check with us from time to time for updates to these questions and additions. Feel free to ask us any questions you have. With our experience we cater to both the ardent seasoned hunter, the part timer and the novice alike. Large groups, corporate groups, family hunts everyone is treated with the same positive attitude and old fashioned hard work that make for a top quality hunting experience here at Lecuyer’s. I hope to personally, speak with anyone taking their time, reading through these Q & A in helping answer any other personal questions they may have. Ultimately, helping them realize their very own Canadian water fowl hunt!

Fishing

Q: I'm taking a Canada fishing trip with my son. This will be our first one and want to catch fish. What can we expect to catch at your place?
A: One of the great points that our lodge can offer you and your son. Is the fact that we are on the lake of the woods. Here, we host a wide verity of fish species all on the same lake. Walleye, northern pike, bass, muskie, crappie and lake trout. If one species is a little slow, you can easily change up and catch something else.

Q: What are the accommodations like? Are the cabins modern? Close to the water?
A: We have a number of cabins that accommodate a different number of guests. Our smaller cabins are two bedroom and sleep 4 - 5 persons. Our larger ones are 3 - 4 bedroom and sleep up to 12 persons. The larger cabins have a bath and a half. All our cabins are either new or completely remodeled in the past few years, including 4 piece bathrooms. Each has it’s own 40 gal hot water heater, full size fridge, coffee maker etc. The cabins are right by, all over look the lake. They all are facing towards the west as well, so each evening offers up a splendid Canadian sunset.

Q: What about drinking water? Is it safe to drink your water? Where does your water come from lake or well?
A: That’s a terrific question because although we are surrounded by water up here. Most all fresh water lakes contain bacteria that can cause some folks problems. You know how people always say when you travel. Don’t drink the water! Well not here! We have supper drinking water. We have clean drinking water that comes from our wells.

Q: I hear a lot of folks say go early in the last of May or first part of June. What would you say is the best time to go fishing with you?
A: The last part of May and early June are a terrific time to fish up north. However not the only time to catch fish here. Fact is, our summer and fall fishing can often be much better than early season.

Q: Why is that?
A: Well though it is true the fish are hungry in the spring with their spawning cycles. The water temperatures are also changing. If there is a early spawn or large temperature changes, the fish can get a little tougher to catch then. That’s because the bit is slower after the spawn then before. Also, when the lake temperatures are changing quickly so to are the habitat that those same fish are looking to be in. During summer months, the water temps are not fluctuating by that many degrees. So, consequently their patterns are more steady. Fall fishing is to me one of the most exciting time of the year. The fish bit is really happening then to as they are all foraging very strong for the winter. So really it just boils down to your vacation time more than anything.

Q: Will I get help with map marking and fishing spots when I'm there?
A: Yes most certainly! We have a number of professional guides on our staff. They as well as myself will help in making “ the honey holes “ for you. We like seeing our guests doing well!

Q: What type of water do you have in your lake, clear or stained? Do you have do allot of night fishing up there?
A: Our water is a stained colour, so you do not have to knock your self out fishing late evenings or super early mornings to catch fish. Clear water makes fishing allot tougher during the days as the fish can see! That’s another reason why our summer fishing is terrific also because of our stained water.

Q: Do we share cabins with other people or get our own cabin.
A: You will have your own cabin for just your group.

Q: How many guests can you accommodate at one time?
A: We can comfortably accommodate up to 52 guests at one time.

Q: What’s the advantage of going to your lodge say as opposed to going on a fly-out?
A: Several really! First, there is no flying involved! Second your not going to possibly loose valuable vacation time or even miss out on pay because of weather related problems associated with a fly-out. Remember, planes up in the bush can only fly safely in good weather. Unfortunately, we do get some stormy weather up here! Third, although say you did take the fly-out. You still need to find the fish on the lake you fly into. This could take half your trip just to do! Fourth, your camps not going to have a person there to help you out, answer questions or fix any problem that may arise. Fifth, your equipment is not going to be in the best of shape as there is little maintenance that can be done when equipment is that far away. Sixth, the cost! For what you would pay for a fly-out trip where you have to do the work etc. we can provide you and your group with outstanding accommodations, meals, equipment, complete service and professional guides to help put you on fish every day, starting day one!!

Q: What kinds of boats do you offer?
A: Our standard boat is the 16' deep V lund, with new each year 25hp motors. We also have a fleet of 17.5' boats complete with casting decks, electric trolling motors, graphs, live wells, 50 hp motors with tilt trim. Then we also run several 21' guide boats fully rigged with 150hp motors.

Q: We are interested in taking one of your packages. What is not included in your package that we would need to prepare for?
A: Our packages are the most complete you will find in the north woods anywhere. No hidden costs or add on's. The only extras are clearly stated, tax’s gratuities and depending what package there may be some additional items which are all clearly stated.

Q: What day can my group arrive on?
A: Any day really, with the exception of our housekeeping package which runs only Saturday to Saturday.

Q: How long have you been in business?
A: That’s a great question. Because although many business advertise 30 40 or even 50 years of the business being there, may times the owners are new and the business has changed hands several times. We are very proud of the fact that our family are original owners of our lodge. My parents started this place up in the early 1940's so we have been hosting guests for a long time.
We like very much what we do and feel very fortunate to be in such a wonderful business and setting that we are.

Q: What types of lures and other things can you suggest we bring up?
A: Once our office receives your groups deposit. We send out a detailed fisherman’s booking kit. Inside this you will find helpful information, including suggested lures for the time of year your trip is planed as well as brief itinerary of the package you have taken, some helpful hints for clearing Canada customs and other info you will find helpful with planning your trip.

Q: We are planning on flying into International Falls Mn. How far from the lodge is that? What are our options to get to your place from the airport?
A: You are approximately 75 miles to our lodge from that point. You have a number of options from car rental to our providing transportation to and from the airport. Our service to pick you up is $100.00 per vehicle each way. So a van load is very reasonable and there is no need for you to have a vehicle once you are here with us.

Q: Do you supply equipment should we fly?
A: Yes we do supply equipment should you decide to fly.

These are but a small number of questions that many folks ask us. However, just as each person has different needs and likes. We welcome the opportunity to help in answering any you may have that are not covered in this Q&A, or found on this site. Please feel free to drop us an email with your questions and concerns as we want to make sure all your questions and concerns are addressed and answered fully. We want to be helpful, we want to see you this coming season fishing though our fine place in the northern woods of Canada! Thanks for stopping in on our little site.

Respectfully; Dan Lecuyer

SOMETHING TO REMEMBER ........
.....You can expect to pay a fair dollar,
for nice clean grain ...
Or, .. you can buy grain that's already
been used .... for a cheaper price !!