The idea for Your Northern Connection was sparked during "rum o’clock" at a sports show in Minneapolis. For Wayne and Karla Clark, "rum o’clock" is their daily downtime ritual at 5:00 p.m., a moment to enjoy a rum, reflect on the day’s events, and plan for tomorrow. During this particular gathering, they began sharing stories with Meagan about how they got their start and built a life in Northwestern Ontario. As the tales unfolded—full of challenges, triumphs, and unforgettable moments—Meagan encouraged them to share these incredible stories with a wider audience. And so, Your Northern Connection was born, offering readers a fascinating, educational, and entertaining glimpse into their journey.
your northern connection
Diaries of a lodge Owner Featuring Wayne Clark
Wayne was interviewed on the podcast Diary of a Lodge Owner. Tune in to hear about his journey from fur trapping to becoming a successful entrepreneur in Northwestern Ontario.
My First Solo Flight
In the early 1980’s as I was just getting established in the minnow business, a lot of the other harvesters were using aircraft to harvest bait. At this time I was using ATV’s and doing a lot of portaging, which took a great deal of time. I was definitely at a disadvantage compared to the guys using aircraft…
How we met
I have been asked hundreds of times over the past several years "how did you and Wayne meet?" I jokingly like to say "he baited me", but you'll learn after you read my story, that there is definitely SOME truth to that line!
Trappers Corner
I’ve been involved in fur trapping for over 30 years and my father, Gordon has been a trapper for over 70 years. Fur trapping has always been a huge part of my life and even though it’s not something I do much anymore, it’s something that I think about often during my day-to-day work.
Perseverance Pays Off
I would like to share a story that many people would appreciate, especially those of you who have ever ventured to start your own business, or have sought financing for a business from a bank. As a young couple in the early 80s, my wife, Karla and I were trying to get our bait business rolling.
A Hard Day At The Office
It was July 12, 2015 at 7:30 a.m. Looking over the dash of my favorite airplane, I cracked the throttle of my PA-18 Super Cub. For some reason, I did NOT have a good feeling. After 30 years of flying for minnows, thousands and thousands of take-offs and landings, I knew sooner or later the time would come when a tree would get in the way…
Ice Fishing in Northwestern Ontario - Tips!
One of my favourite activities that I've loved to do ever since a young age, is to go ice fishing. In the very busy and connected world that we live in, I cannot think of a better way to spend quality time with friends and family. Here are my top tips to make the most of it!
Treading on Thin Ice
I would like to share a story of one of my near death experiences. Maybe it will save someone from making the same mistakes. In my early years, unfortunately, I was not as cautious as I am today as far as ice conditions go…
TOO CLOSE FOR COMFORT…
With the ice slowly setting in, here are some tips and things to think about as you head out. Some of the larger and deeper lakes are still not frozen over, while others are only partially frozen. With this latest snowfall, it is near impossible to spot the dangerous areas, including the pressure ridges.