“Solo mom” at an outfitter: yes, ma’am, you can!

People often think that a stay at an outfitter is exclusively for angling buddies or “traditional” families. In fact, going “solo mom” with three teens is not only doable, but also a chance to enjoy special moments in the great outdoors, away from noise and screens. Yes, it is possible to go on a fishing trip without any men around to light a fire, start the boat engine, or gut the fish. This story is about a trip that includes fishing, swimming, lots of laughs… and some wonderful encounters with Quebec wildlife.

Our trip began in a veritable downpour, as Mother Nature sometimes treats us in summertime. I had anticipated the immense amount of luggage and food needed for four days—myself and three teenagers aged 11, 13, and 15. Those “little creatures” sure can eat, as we say in Quebec!

We had a four-hour drive to reach La Pourvoirie du Lac OscarThis link will open in a new window, 45 minutes from La Tuque, in Mauricie. The car was so full that we were navigating between pillows, coolers, and fishing rods that brushed against our ears. Even the forest road we took was so beautiful that it would put some of Quebec’s paved roads to shame. At the reception desk, an incredibly kind and attentive employee was waiting for us with a smile. The kind of person who treats you like a human being, not just “another customer” showing up a little late. After making sure we had had a smooth trip, she explained about our cottage: isolated, on a private lake, about a twenty-minute drive away. It was a dream come true. She also mentioned that a guide, Eric, would be waiting for us there to help us with everything related to fishing. After the three teenagers took advantage of the last few minutes of Wi-Fi (since there wouldn’t be any at the cottage), we set off again for the next three nights.

Upon our arrival, Eric and his wife gave us a warm welcome and took the time to explain everything—the lakes and rowboats, the types of fish we could catch, how the motors work, and all the cottage amenities. It was a truly thoughtful introduction. And the cottage… what can I say? A 4-star stay that exceeded my highest expectations. We had barely unpacked when my two eldest children headed straight to our private lake to take advantage of the last light of day. They came back with three beautiful speckled trout, which ended up on our plates that evening—a true feast, and a proud moment to savour the fruits of their efforts.

The next morning, we’re up at 5:30 a.m. to make the most of an early fishing session. The lake is still and peaceful, with a light mist drifting across the surface, and the haunting calls of loons echoing in the distance. We even have the privilege of watching them dive and resurface with their catch—almost as if they’re giving us a lesson in how it’s done. The sights and sounds of nature make the whole experience feel even more magical. Over the next few hours, we reel in trout after trout. By around 10 a.m., we’re back at the cottage, where I whip up a hearty brunch for my hungry little ones. Then it’s off to the expansive Blanc Reservoir for the afternoon—our goal: to learn how to fish for walleye and pike.

During breakfast, Éric stops by to set up a second rowboat on our lake. We take the opportunity to ask him for a few tips on fishing for walleye and pike. After taking a look at our gear, he quickly realizes that… let’s just say we didn’t exactly have the right bait. With patience, he rigs our rods properly for these feisty species and even prepares extra leaders that we can easily swap out if we decide to go back to trout fishing. This, too, is what a stay at an outfitter is all about: generous service, expert advice, and a warm welcome that truly makes all the difference.

We’re all set. At the reservoir, our rowboat is waiting. We troll, we jig, we change spots… nothing. After two hours of getting tossed around by the wind and waves, I announce that walleye and pike might not be in the cards this time. But the kids want to keep trying, so we give it another hour. Still nothing.

We decide to head back to our little trout lake—the place where we truly feel in our element. Back at the cottage around 2 p.m., the kids are eager to swim. We throw on our swimsuits and enjoy the refreshing water for a couple of hours. Before dinner, we make a quick stop at the main lodge so the kids can hop online and download a movie.

Then, on a whim, we decide to drive all the way to La Tuque for dinner at a restaurant. On the way, a black bear casually crosses the road right in front of us. WOW! It was the first time I’d ever seen one in the wild—an unexpected and unforgettable encounter. That evening, tired of the day (and with no Internet to distract us), we head to bed early.

The next day, after a well-deserved sleep-in, we head back out to fish on our private lake. And then—an unforgettable moment: a bald eagle dives right in front of us and snatches a fish from the water. Total silence in the boat, except for the splash.

Soon after, the bites start again. My daughter reels in a beautiful 14-inch trout, absolutely beaming with pride. This time, the boys insist—it’s my turn to gut the fish. Mission accomplished! Proud of the day’s catch, I move on to preparing our “Land and Lake” dinner: pork tenderloin and trout, served with vegetables and potatoes. A real feast!

As evening falls, the sky bursts into colour with a stunning sunset over the lake—just in time to light the campfire. We end the day gathered around the flames, sharing stories. A perfect day.

On our final morning, we wake up early to pack up and hit the road, heading back to everyday life. Along the way, we reminisce about our adventures, each of us sharing our favourite moments.

So yes, heading to an outfitter as a solo mom isn’t just possible—it’s deeply rewarding. Thanks to the care of the team and the unique atmosphere of the place, we had a truly unforgettable stay… one we’ll definitely repeat. In the end, a solo mom trip like this is also about feeling that personal pride—the kind that comes from giving your kids such meaningful, joy-filled moments. Dare to try the adventure, and embrace the experience of being immersed in nature, surrounded by your little (and not-so-little) loved ones.

Written by Anne-Marie Royer, advisor on tourism development, sustainable development, and training at the Québec Outfitters Federation