We made it down to Murphys Wharft, where our whale watching tour was to begin. My hangover was consuming me. I told Justin, my roommate, that chances were good that I was going to upchuck on a whale, or possibly a small child. He gave me one last way out, “You don’t have to do this man”. I lifted my face out of my hands, “Yes Justin, I must!”

We all boarded Murphys Tour boat, a collosal looking thing with chairs lining the outer-upper deck and theatre-esque seating in the main cabin. I found a sweet looking seat right beside the edge of the starboard side of our tour boat. If I was going to be sick, I didn’t want to be running for a garbage or bathroom. Plus the fresh air distracted me from how many shots of whiskey I shouldn’t have partook in.

The tour boat set off toward the sea while the tour guides gave us an in-depth history lesson on Point Pleasant Park, Pier 21, and the Halifax Harbour. I took in as much as I could under the circumstances. That is, until one of the Murphys Tour Guides mentioned on the P.A system that there was a bar in the cabin. My guts said no, but my logic said yes. The only way to cure (or at least delay) this hangover was to drink through it. Hair of the dog. Thankfully, Justin and his old man were happy to join me for beers.

My thoughts were finally tuning into the beauty of Halifax’s harbor. The second largest in North American, next to New Yorks. As of yet, we hadn’t seen much in terms of wildlife, aside from some seabirds. The history lessons continued, when finally some harbor seals swam by far enough away to look indistinguishable from some of the waves. The Murphys tour guides informed everyone on boat that they were going to pull a lobster trap out to let us touch (and annoy) some crustaceans.

As they hauled up the heavy looking wooden box, I had to laugh a bit. It was almost empty. There were a few little guys in there, along with some stone crabs and a very pissed off fish. This was by all means nothing like “The Deadliest Catch”. Thankfully, Murphys Gang had a backup plan, they ran to their tank in the cabin and pulled out their domesticated lobster and crab to let the kids (and me) hold. We grabbed a second round of beers and took our seats to enjoy the sun as it faught its way through the clouds. My hangover would come back every so often, or maybe it was seasickeness. Regardless, I held strong.

We’d been on the boat almost an hour with still no sight of whales. I was beginning to think we might be the unlucky group of the day when suddenly crowds of children and a few eager photographers ran to the port side of the ship to see something. The Murphys Whale Watching crew announced that they’d found a Minke Whale, but warned we might not see it for a bit as it looked like it was diving. I figured I should get up to see if I could see anything. Then on the starboard side two more whales surfaced, where they proceeded to show off a bit. One minke whale waved its tail as it dove deeper, while the other was just surfacing.

After watching for 15 to 20 minutes, one last whale, or possibly the first one, surfaced again on the port side. Unfortunately, unless you have a telescopic lens with a trigger finger and some serious high shutter speed, you may have a heckuva time catching any pictures of whales. As you can see, I didn’t. But I think that’s what a lot of people seem to forget. Its a Whale Watching Tour, not a Whale Photo Shoot. After realizing I wasn’t going to be able to get much of a shot, I put the camera away for a while, and just watched the whales. Its incredible how much faster the human eye is than the camera.

The Whale watching tour finished with some bird feeding and a few more historical stories, including the famous Halifax Explosion. As I snapped a few last photos of the Halifas Skyline, I realized my hangover was gone. Then I got off the boat and realized I was perhaps a bit dunk. “Hair of the dog, you’ve done it again!” And that, ladies and gentlemen, is how you go whale watching hungover!

A Smoky Morning

The boys and I dragged our feet and collapsed off the dock into the boat. Still too tired to function. The old man had a childish smile on his face as he gave the pull-start a yank and let the engine purr back to life. The boat was going in a north-easterly direction, headed towards an area we skipped the day prior. I looked towards the horizon, and commented on how smoky it looked up that ways. One of the boys mentioned that ‘Smoky the Bear’ must be slacking off. We chuckled and continued driving ahead. We had heard reports of forest fires getting pretty nasty way up North but that we were in the clear. Good thing too, as we had some fish to catch.

Trolling, Trolling, Trolling, Rawhide

We started the morning off with some serious trolling, which for you non-fishermen, is when you drag your lines through the water while the boat is gently moving through the waters. You cover more territory this way, and have to cast less, the perfect type of fishing while recovering from a mild hangover. We trolled for maybe 15 minutes when the fish woke up. We began pulling out fish after fish, finding the occasional hot spot where we’d stop for some casting. The fish were practically jumping in our boat. And who could blame them, we had cold beer, a full bag of Sunflower seeds, and a great sense of humour.

Underwater wishes and northern pike fishes

My underwater camera proved useful for fishing. Whenever we’d get a bite, someone would reach for the camera and try to snap a picture or video of the whole event, and if possible, a picture of the battle underwater. We were lucky to get a few good shots. However I should give props to the clear waters up North too. Most of the fishing done in lakes elsewhere would be way too murky to grab a photo of anything but algae.

Lake McLennan Waterfalls

Vince and Tamara, the owners and operators of Bears Camp, mentioned that there were waterfalls nearby. Saskatchewan Waterfalls just has the ring of an oxymoron. But we went along with it, expecting to find some sign laughing at us, or maybe just a small drainage pipe from a nearby cabin. After tripping over a couple of fallen trees, we heard the hiss of water falling and the recognizable splash caused by waterfalls. Holy crap, they weren’t kidding. They’re no Niagra Falls, but this is is photographic proof that Saskatchewan is not flat. Well, not completely.

She’s Gonna Be Cold

We made our way back onto the lake and caught some more fish, had a couple laughs as a few got away. My hangover was just about gone. Knowing perfectly well that cold water almost instantly cures hangovers, I notioned to a nearby crop of rocks. “It’s time”, I told my Dad. He laughed and pulled into a bay where some rocks dropped off into about 12 feet of water. I climbed out of the boat gently and watched as my brothers followed behind. “She’s gonna be cold” yelled the old man. I laughed nervously. I jumped from the edge giving one semi-girlish scream before entering the cold waters of Lake McLennan.

A Cold Dip in the Lake

The cold water stole my breathe, my survival skills kicked in. Don’t breathe in yet, too cold. I began treading water, my temperature cooled, but my breathe came back. Now to just let my body adjust to the water. My older brother Logan jumped in and soaked me, the splash on my face was incredibly cold. We laughed and egged our youngest brother to give’r a go. He laughed and called us idiots, and chose to continue fishing instead. We harassed him until our chattering teeth wouldn’t let us speak anymore. He then brought up what Vince had said about the “One Inch Lake”. He got the last laugh. This time.

Race to the Rocky Island

Logan and I saw a small rocky island in the middle of the lake. We hollered to the old man, “We’re swimming for it”. He laughed, probably preparing to drag at least one body out of the water. Through luck, fate, or possibly our healthy diet (not likely), we both managed to make it to the rocky island. The old man maneuvered the 16 foot tin water chariot close enough to the island that we could step off the rocky ledge, back onto our seats. We swiftly grabbed our towels and a beer. Hangover cured.

The Best Shore Lunch. Ever

It was getting close to 1:00pm when all the bellies on board were loudly telling us that food would be appreciated. We met up with Erik’s boat, the old man’s comrade, and yelled “Shore Lunch”. We followed Erik’s boat to a secluded firepit near a slow moving river and a bearproof cabin. The old man cleaned fish as I dangled my feet from the small bridge that crossed the river. I complimented on the finished fillets. “Nice cutting pops.” I said. He replied in his farmers accent, something he’ll never shake,”This ain’t my first rodeo.”

Butterflies are too manly!

Hot dogs were brought out of the food cooler, along with all the condiments. Ketchup, mustard, and relish, each a necessity for any good fishing trip. We breaded some more fish, buttered a skillet, tossed it on the fire and let the fish cook as we roasted hot dogs and inhaled trail mix by the handful. While the fish was finishing, I did a quick walk around the old bearproof cabin and managed to find a butterfly who was willing to do a photo-op with me. I walked back to the fire, and devoured some of the tastiest Northern Pike and Lake Trout I’d ever consumed.

Last Sunset in Northern SK

We managed to get a few more hours of fishing in before the sun began its descent into the clear glass-like waters of Northern Saskatchewan. We would be leaving early the next morning back to Regina, so we had lots of packing and cleaning up to do. We took a few pictures, watched the sunset in the middle of the lake, and enjoyed the peace and quiet that this remote part of Canada has to offer.

Henry David Thoreau once said “Many men go fishing all their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after.” I think those words tie our little adventure together perfectly. We met some great people, who found a passion, followed it, and now call it their life. We made some great memories, escaped the day to day routine, and had a few laughs. It’s memories like this that make fishing what it is.

Check out Bears Camp at Lake McLennan, Saskatchewan, for more information on fishing, boating, and experiencing an affordable Northern getaway.

Why Lake McLennan?

The Arrival at Bears Camp

The valuable Old man

Sunset in Northern Saskatchewan

Wake up, we’re going fishing!

Sunny Day for fishing

Oh BBQ, how I love you.

Campfires, Beers, and conversations with a local

Check out Bears Camp at Lake McLennan, Saskatchewan, for more information on fishing, boating, and experiencing an affordable Northern getaway.

There’s so much room for activities!

Cypress hills is a great place for outdoor activities. During the summer months (June to September) you’ve got your pick at dozens of hiking trails in Alberta and Saskatchewan. If hiking  gives you a case of the yawns, pick up a bike and hit some of the dozens of biking trails, from beginner to intermediate, to even a few expert trails. If you find working up a serious sweat isn’t your thing, you could always slow things down with some of the many Interpretive Hiking Trails, which will point out important landmarks and teach you about the local flora and fauna.  During winter, dust off those cross-country ski’s, proceed with your worst impression of “wax on, wax off” and strap in for a work out and a good time!

The wild? Are you nuts?

If you’re amped up on crazy, and obsessed with getting pictures of animals in the wild, you’ll be happy to hear that Cypress Hills is home to Elk, White Tail, Mule Deer, Moose, Rainbow and Brook trout (bring your fishing rod) and even cougars, North America’s largest and most badass wild cat found on this continent. Keep in mind, 3 of those listed animals have the ability to kill you, and coincidentally each are on my list of 10 Ways to Die in Canada. So just be smart out there.

Pitch a tent!

There are plenty of campgrounds to go around, both on the Saskatchewan side and on the Alberta side of Cypress Hills. Prices typically range from $21 for non electrical campsites and up to $32 for full service campsites. (More Camping Costs) You’ve got a huge variety of choices here, so if you’ve got time, and want to familiarize yourself with the campgrounds, take a drive and see what each has to offer.

• For Cypress Hills, Alberta campgrounds call (403) 893-3782 or reserve a site online
• For Cypress Hills, Saskatchewan campgrounds call (306) 662-5484

Camping in the upper-class

If tenting brings about thoughts of uncomfortable sleeping, creepy crawlies, and a sore back in the morning, there are a few other options. Cypress Hills has a couple different resorts you can stay with. In Alberta, there is the Elkwater Lake Lodge & Resort, and in Saskatchewan there is Cypress Park Resort Inn. There is also several Bed & Breakfasts and Guest Ranches where you can kick up your pampered feet after a long day.

Cypress Hills has got the wildlife, it’s got all the camping you could ask for, it’s got some of the most amazing sights and sounds in the area, the only thing missing from this picture is you. This magnificent park is located in the perfect spot to give your wheels a rest during the 8 hour drive between Calgary and Regina. It’s the perfect spot for a long weekend camping trip or a quick day trip on your way through. Whatever your reason for visiting, it gives you some great views of the rolling hills of Alberta, and the flatlands of Saskatchewan, and makes you appreciate this part of Canada so much more.

Ever since I was a kid, camping has been one of the best parts of summer. Memories of gold and pink sunsets, the sound of crickets, the sight of the milky way, the Northern Lights, and enjoying the company of family and friends around a campfire still find their way into my day to day thoughts. There are hundreds, if not thousands of beautiful campsites in Canada waiting to be enjoyed by you.

So over the next few months I’m going to try and tackle writing about some of my favourite Canadian National Parks and private campsites throughout this massive nation. The first post on Camping in Canada should be up soon!

Sable Island

Nicknamed the Graveyard of the Atlantic, Sable Island has been the final resting place for over 350 ships since it’s discovery. Partly due to thick fogs, strong currents, and the fact that it’s in the middle of of a major transatlantic shipping route. Despite the enormous number of ships to have met Davy Jone’s Locker, there is little sign of any of these ships. Thick tides and moving sands tend to cover them in little to no time at all.

So aside from its nasty ship eating abilities, what makes Sable Island so great? For one, it’s protected to the nines. Try to make an unwelcome visit and you’re sure to meet the good folks of the Canadian Coast Guard. But why so protected? Nope, no gold, no diamonds, no secret Canadian version of Area 51 (how cool would that be!?). It’s all about nature here.

Nature huh?

Yea man, nature! Sable Island is home to hundreds of feral horses known as Sable Island Ponies, all of which are protected by law from human interference. If you’re like me, you might be wondering “What the heck are a bunch of wild horses doing miles from the mainland on a stretch of land no more than 1.5km wide?” Well, apparently the horses are descended from a herd confiscated from Acadians during the Great Explusion and left on the island by Thom Hancock…you may know his nephew…goes by the name of John Hancock.

Aside from horses, there is a large Grey Seal population on the island (See photo to the right), which sometimes happen to end up being food for natures dear friend, the Great White Shark. These ocean predators have been known to hang around in the nearby waters. Don’t forget the countless bird colonies that reside here, along with the  freshwater sponge which is found only in ponds on this mondo el weirdo island.

Sable Island on Map

You want to visit Sable Island?

So all this talk is getting your feet all sorts of itchy to check this place out? Sandy beaches, cool animals, a little hidden getaway from the world. Might be nice. At present, you’d have a better shot at going to Antarctica than Sable Island. From what I hear they currently limit 250 visitors per year. You should also be warned, many locals are pissed that the government is considering making Sable Island a National Park, which means it could end up being a tourist attraction. What would be a group of pissed of people be without a Facebook Page, check it out at Hands off Sable Island. Whatever decision is made in the end, I just hope Sable Island survives along with it’s inhabitants. If you’re looking for an organized group of people trying to protect Sable Island, check out the Green Horse Society. They’ve got some great photos and a lot more reading material on this subject.

Cool video of the Sable Island Ponies

People these days seem to have a strange misunderstanding of the true dangers polar bears face. Many seem to think they’re drowning due to global warming. That is false. There hasn’t been one known case of this. Many seem to think they are starving due to global warming. That too is disputable. The only fact we know for sure, is that every year over 700 polar bears are hunted by non-native citizens, making game hunting the most dangerous enemy to the Polar Bears.

Canada is the only nation in the world that allows non-natives and non-citizens to hunt Polar Bears. Which is pretty sad considering there are at least 4 other nations with polar bears residing within. An even more sad fact is that 60% of the Polar Bear population is found within Canada. This recreational hunt has been going on since 1970. The longer the hunt goes on, the more threatened the species will become.

Please sign one of the many petitions to end Polar Bear Hunting

If your interested in assisting the end of polar bear hunting check out Stop Polar Bear Hunting

Eco Canada has a great job board dedicated to Environmental Jobs. There are countless different areas one can apply for, anything from Lab Technicians and Biologists to Financial Analysts and Secretary’s. If you have the qualifications and want to work in a rewarding area, be sure to check them out.

Another great job board worth looking into is GoodWork. They have more positions, particularly because a lot of the jobs don’t require as many prerequisites as Eco Canada does. Plenty of part time, casual and seasonal work. So if you only plan on staying a while, these jobs might be in your interest.

For those looking at picking fruit and working on a farm, check out WWOOF – Willing Workers on Organic Farms – No experience necessary for these jobs. This is a worldwide organization that helps “willing workers” find jobs on (you guessed it) organic farms. This program is very big in New Zealand and Australia. A one year registration will cost you $45. Once signed up you can browse by province, area, farms, fruits, seasons, etc, and find a place worthy of working. WWOOFing however, is not a paying gig. You are volunteering and in return for your help, you will receive food and accommodation and a locals view on life in that area. It’s not uncommon to luck out and find a farm with all the cool farm toys you can imagine. Quads, bikes, a boat, etc, and more often than not the owners are happy to give you a personal tour of the area. One great thing about WWOOFing is you do NOT need a working visa.

One of my favourite Environmental Job boards is WorkCabin – – They have a massive site and probably the most comprehensive list of Eco friendly jobs in Canada. Volunteer work and paying jobs can be found here. Some for the experienced environmentalist, others for those just beginning work in this field. Keep an eye out for “Field Assistant” jobs, there’s nothing like making a forest or river your pseudo office for a while.

Ducks Unlimited – is a great organization to take part in. They have countless offices across Canada, and if you’re lucky enough to score a job with them, you’re sure to enjoy it. However, jobs are quite hard to come by with Ducks Unlimited. They do have several volunteer preservation programs, many of which depend on the area you are in. If you’re interested in Ducks Unlimited, check the Local Yellow Pages, and find out if they are in need of assistance. While backpacking across Canada you may see their ads on TV, Billboards, and if your lucky they may have an arrangement setup with the local hostel.

Red Leaf is a great organization which provides international volunteers a chance to participate in Environmental Conservation, Animal Care, Children’s Programs, and Community Support. Definitely worth checking out, keep in mind there is a fee to participate, still, they’re doing lots of good work with several projects and could by all means use your help.

If you’re still having trouble finding the work you want after checking all of these sites out, start checking local newspapers in the classifieds section for jobs. Work in the environmental field can be very rewarding, it may not pay the best, nor be the most glamorous job, but it does leave you with a feeling that you’re doing something worthwhile.

Kermode Bear

Just recently Steve Kozlowski, a wildlife photographer for 18 years, captured this amazing photo of a Kermode Bear. The Kermode Bears are otherwise known as the Spirit Bear or Ursus americanus kermodei. They are rarely seen, as their habitat has been diminishing for years. The photographer caught this just outside of his tent.

The Tsimshian people  of Western Canada called this bear “Moksgm’ol” - which roughly translates to “white bear”. The term “Spirit Bear” was likely chosen by First Nations tradition, which believe the white bears were to be left untouched and protected.  The Spirit Bear is not a Polar Bear, nor an Albino, as the Spirit Bears have brown noses and brown eyes. The Spirit Bears are a subspecies of the North American Black Bear. Their colour is caused by a recessive gene which causes their coat to be a beautiful pale cream colour, with occasional tinges of yellow or orange on their backs. Zooligists believe 1/10 of the Spirit Bears are born with white fur. These Spirit bears are omnivores, they feed primarily on berries, greens, and salmon.

View Larger Map

Scientists call this species an “umbrella” species. If a large enough ecosystem for these bears can be protected, countless other species will benefit from it as well. Including Salmon, Wolves, Grizzlies, Birds, etc. The Spirit Bears have lived in the Pacific Northwest Rainforest for thousands of years, with the largest observed population being right near Princess Royal Island. They are in danger of losing their habitat, which will pose a significant threat to their population. This once massive forest has been shrinking yearly, due to urbanization and logging which has been increasing lately. It is currently estimated that there are only a few hundred remaining Spirit Bears left in British Columbia.

For those of you wishing to help protect the Spirit Bears habitat, check out Raincoast, They are a non-profit team of conservationists and scientists dedicated to protecting the lands, waters and wildlife of the Great Bear Rainforest. Email them and ask how you can help.