Frequently Asked Questions:
How cold is it up there?
- The weather is very diverse. In October, you can expect temperatures in the 30 to 45 F range. November temperatures are typically 0 to 20 F. Cold is -30 F, but that is rare. In May and June, expect temperatures anywhere from 40 to 70 F.
Where is the best airport and is there airport pick-up?
- We can provide affordable group transportation from a Saskatoon hotel or airport directly to our camp
- Many car rental agencies provide affordable rates for those who choose to drive (185 miles)
Will I have any problems transporting the hide and horns home across the border?
- No, your tags and licence work as your permits to transport
When does the rut occur there?
- Rubs and scrapes start in mid October and the rut peaks around the 22nd of November
- Bears will start breeding at the beginning of June
How much do we tip?
- 10 – 15% would be considered normal in the hunting industry
- It is at your discretion and always appreciated
How do you choose who guides who?
- Repeat hunters always have first choice
- Guides work in separate regions with various levels of access, some easy, some difficult, all good!
Do you have a trophy fee or a wounding policy?
- No trophy fees
- Ethical hunting practices are expected
What is the usual shot distance?
- Rifle/muzzleloader is generally under 150 yards
- Archery is under 25 yards
How do you recommend to dress appropriately in order to stay warm and will i get too warm walking to stands?
- Dress in layers
- Good underwear, silk, wool, and a wind-proof quiet outer layer (scent lock)
- Raven wear, Sleeping Indian Design and Micro Berber all great products
- Your guide will assist you with carrying whatever you need to your stand
Do you allow alcohol in camp?
- Yes, you can supply your own or request us to purchase in advance for your convenience
If I choose to drive from Saskatoon, how do I get to camp?
Saskatoon Airport through Prince Albert to Carrot river: click here for map.
- Airport Drive to Circle Drive, turn left
- Go to first lights (Avenue C), turn left
- Exit ramp on Idylwyld Drive (HWY 11 North)
- Follow HWY 11 North to Prince Albert (80 Miles)
- You will drive through Prince Albert on 15th street
- Exit ramp onto HWY 55 toward Nipawin (75 miles)
- Enter Nipawin and turn left at first 4 way stop (beside KFC) on HWY 55 East (18 miles)
- Turn right on HWY 23 toward Carrot River (6 miles)
- Purchase your license at the Esso gas station (DBN Service), tell them you are with RockRidge (be sure to have Canadian funds for your license)
Carrot River to camp:
- Back track 6 miles North on HWY 23 and turn right on HWY 55 East
- Drive 18 miles, turn left on Smokey Burn Road (small sign)
- Drive 3 miles across a river and stay right for 4 miles, winding road will lead you to camp (follow the horse fence and turn into the first drive-way)
Pricing:
Whitetail hunts:
- 6 day hunt (Monday to Saturday) – $5,400 (US Currency)
- Price includes license, taxes, lodging and meals
- Deposit of $2,500 USD required
- Payable to RockRidge Outfitting Ltd.
Spring Black Bear hunts (South Camp):
- 6 day hunt (Monday to Saturday) – $4,650 (US Currency)
- Price includes bear license, taxes, lodging and meals
- Deposit of $2,500 USD required
- Payable to RockRidge Outfitting Ltd.
Bear hunts / Fishing combo at Fontaine Lake:
- 6 day hunt (Monday to Saturday) – $6,950 (US Currency)
- Price includes air flights from Saskatoon to Stoney Rapids, Floatplane to Fontaine Lake, bear and fishing licenses, taxes, lodging, and meals
- Deposit of $3,500 USD required
- Payable to RockRidge Outfitting Ltd.
Useful Links:
- Saskatoon Car rental – www.budget.ca www.enterprise.ca
- Hotels (closest to airport) – www.saskatooninn.com www.travelodgesaskatoon.com
- Sask Tourism – www.tourismsaskatchewan.com
- Canadian Firearms site – www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/en/firearms
- Tobin Lake fishing site – www.tobinlakeresort.com
- Criminal record site for US residents – www.bordercrossing.ca
- Weather for Carrot River – www.theweathernetwork.com
- Currency and Foreign exchange – www.xe.com