Your host
From father to son
Of Naskapi origin, Louis Shecanapish-Tardif, co-owner of the Rivière aux Feuilles outfitter, embodies the evolution of a historic place, guided by his indigenous values which respect the symbiosis between man and nature and a deep commitment to its preservation.
Having been involved with his father Alain since his youth, Louis has navigated the challenges and opportunities presented by the unique and wild environment of Nunavik. From caribou hunting guide to operations manager, and then co-owner after 2017, he has gradually reoriented the outfitter towards environmentally responsible activities such as sport fishing and wildlife photography. Today, with a forward-looking vision, he wants to make the outfitter a must-visit destination for nature lovers, combining adventure, discovery, and sustainability.
Louis's journey at the outfitter
Louis Shecanapish-Tardif was born in Schefferville in the late 1970s. The son of a Naskapi mother, he grew up immersed in Indigenous values, learning respect for nature and animals, as well as the importance of human intelligence in this symbiosis. His father, Alain Tardif, an internationally renowned guide and outfitter, instilled in him a love of hunting and fishing, introducing him to the wonders of nature from a very young age. From the age of four, he accompanied his father every summer on the George River, thus developing his passion for the Far North. These deep roots and traditions have shaped his life. For Louis, the Far North is much more than a passion; it is a way of life. Since childhood, he has felt a visceral need to be in harmony with this wild nature, an endless space where animal life and magnificent landscapes put on a spectacular show. Nothing can compare to the beauty of a caribou herd, the splendor of the Northern Lights, or the purity of silence. The North is his playground for personal fulfillment.
It was alongside his father that he learned the basics of guiding, observing, listening, and imitating. At 16, he began guiding his first clients. A few years later, he settled on the majestic Rivière aux Feuilles, where he took over the family business. By carrying on the tradition, Louis is passing on the wonders of Quebec's Far North, the very place his ancestors traversed on foot, following the caribou herd. The still pristine river is home to majestic Atlantic salmon and brook trout. There are even times when a black bear can be seen on the opposite bank, watching the anglers. Caribou sometimes cross the fishing grounds, offering an unparalleled natural spectacle.
A vision focused on nature, respect, and discovery
Since 2014, Louis has been managing reservations and logistics for the outfitter. He ensures the smooth running of stays and the comfort of clients, while maintaining a personal relationship with each one. His role is essential in guaranteeing a seamless and enjoyable experience. In 2017, a turning point occurred with the acquisition of the outfitter. The closure of the caribou hunt presented a challenge, but Louis seized this opportunity to reinvent the offerings. He shifted the focus of the outfitter towards fishing and wildlife viewing, while respecting the principles of species preservation and sustainability. This new direction aims to offer an authentic, immersive, and environmentally responsible experience. Today, with his team, Louis continues to transform the outfitter into a premier destination for nature photography enthusiasts, salmon anglers, and wildlife observers. Priority is given to photography and interpretation of the fauna and flora, in order to raise awareness among visitors of environmental issues, while offering them privileged access to spectacular landscapes.
The outfitter's lodge thus becomes a place where humans and wilderness meet, offering a unique experience. Louis and his team continue to evolve by offering a variety of photo packages, ecological interpretation sessions, and new activities for those eager to discover the riches of Nunavik. The lodge's philosophy is based on respect for the ecosystem and the conservation of species, allowing them to offer eco-responsible experiences in harmony with the land. In the coming years, Louis aims to further diversify the packages, integrate photography workshops led by experts, and develop new environmentally friendly adventure options. The goal is to make the lodge a true hub for nature lovers, where every visitor will leave with unforgettable memories while contributing to the preservation of Nunavik's exceptional territory. The lodge continues its evolution, blending tradition and innovation, with respect and admiration for the pure and untamed beauty of Nunavik.
