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The experience of a lifetime

Since Hooké’s founding, we’ve visited numerous outfitters across Quebec in order to film and explore new terrain. Over the years, we’ve been to countless destinations and experienced some unforgettable moments while filming—including a recent trip to the Far North to shoot Géants d’automne at Leaf River Lodge. This film was featured at the 2024 PALM Festival and the International Fly Fishing Film Festival (IF4).

The Leaf River stretches for hundreds of kilometres across Quebec, from Hudson Bay to Ungava Bay, weaving through a series of wild lakes and rapids. It was here, in this unspoiled wilderness, that Alain Tardif fulfilled a dream by establishing Leaf River LodgeThis link will open in a new window in 1989. Having visited the area years earlier and been captivated by its raw beauty, Alain vowed to one day build an outfitter camp there. Over the years, the outfitter forged a strong partnership with Hooké. Alain eventually passed on the reins to his son, Louis, who now proudly carries on the legacy.

Returning to this cherished location for a major shoot felt like a natural choice for us. To truly understand why, you have to go back 15 years, before Hooké even existed. At the time, Fred Campbell was just launching a communications company with his partner, Mathieu Vézina. He was also developing a passion for hunting and fishing. It was Michel Gravel, host of Le Camp, who first brought Fred to Leaf River in order to shoot a video. The moment Fred arrived he was spellbound. As he says, “It’s the most beautiful place in the world.” Fred had learned to fish as a child with his grandfather, but it was on this trip that he discovered salmon fishing—and landed his very first catch.

It was also here that he harvested his first caribou, an experience that left a lasting impression. While caribou hunting is no longer part of the outfitter's offering, witnessing the migration of these majestic herds remains one of Fred’s most memorable experiences. Both the strength and the vulnerability of these animals inspired admiration and respect.

Fred will never forget the time when Alain pointed him to the perfect spot to film the passing herd. He found himself just a few metres away from the galloping caribou, feeling the ground shake under his feet. From that day on, he vowed to return as often as possible. After founding Hooké, he struck a deal with the outfitter—offering to produce content in exchange for the opportunity to visit whenever he could.

That commitment came full circle in September 2024, when Fred, alongside Louis Tardif and Fabien Cloutier, caught the two largest salmon ever recorded on Leaf River. It was like a gift from nature, marking years of collaboration in a land where salmon and caribou reign supreme.

The outfitter network, Hooké style

What we love about Quebec’s outfitter network is its incredible diversity. We’ve travelled to countless outfitter camps for the greatest hunting and fishing expeditions of our lives and for unforgettable family adventures. Along the way, we’ve built strong friendships with many outfitters, like Max Béland of Pourvoirie Club Hosanna in Mauricie. From the very beginning, Max has welcomed us—and our families and friends—with open arms. Just two hours from Quebec City, his outfitter camp is a dream destination, and today Max is part of the Hooké family. We’ve made countless trips there, always returning with incredible harvests.

Outfitter life is filled with unforgettable moments, but one of the most remarkable was coming face-to-face with a polar bear at Pourvoirie Pavillon Inukshuk in Nunavik. It was a one-of-a-kind sighting that few people in the world will ever get to experience.

Business profile

Founded in 2012, Hooké is a Canadian brand of durable and sustainable outdoor apparel, inspired by a passion for exploring the wilderness and enjoying outdoor life. The hallmarks of the Hooké brand are authenticity, passion, conservation and community spirit. The brand promotes adventure, sustainable fishing and ethical hunting. In all its endeavours, Hooké aims to inspire others to explore, protect and better understand nature in all its fragility. The company first gained recognition among hunting and fishing enthusiasts through its outdoor films and adventures, including at the PALM Festival.

  • Number of employees: 22
  • Years in business: 13
  • Number of shows: 65
  • Number of films: 25
  • Number of series: 3

 

Written by Hooké