Your host
De père en fils
Of Naskapi origin, Louis Shecanapish-Tardif, co-owner of the Rivière aux Feuilles outfitting operation, embodies the evolution of a historic site, guided by aboriginal values that respect the symbiosis between man and nature, and a deep commitment to its preservation. Involved since his youth alongside his father Alain, Louis has navigated the challenges and opportunities offered by Nunavik's unique wilderness environment. From caribou hunting guide to operations manager, then co-owner after 2017, he has gradually reoriented the outfitter towards environmentally-friendly activities such as sport fishing and wildlife photography. Today, with a forward-looking vision, he aims to make the outfitter a must-see center for nature lovers, combining adventure, discovery and sustainability.
Louis' path to outfitting
Louis Shecanapish-Tardif est né à Schefferville à la fin des années 70. Fils d’une mère Naskapie, il a grandi en étant immergé dans les valeurs autochtones, apprenant le respect de la nature et de l’animal, ainsi que l’importance de l’intelligence humaine dans cette symbiose. Son père, Alain Tardif, guide et pourvoyeur de renom international, lui a transmis l’amour de la chasse et de la pêche, l’initiant dès son plus jeune âge aux merveilles de la nature. Dès 4 ans, il l’accompagnait tous les étés sur la rivière George, développant ainsi sa passion pour le Grand Nord. Ce sont ces racines profondes et ces traditions qui ont façonné son parcours. For Louis, the Far North is much more than a passion, it's a way of life. Ever since he was a child, he has felt a visceral need to be in harmony with this wilderness, an endless space where animal life and grandiose landscapes make a spectacle of themselves. Nothing can match the beauty of a caribou herd, the splendor of the aurora borealis or the purity of silence. The North is his personal fulfillment ground.
It was at his father's side that he learned the rudiments of the guiding trade, observing, listening and imitating. At 16, he began guiding his first customers. A few years later, he moved to the majestic Rivière aux Feuilles, where he took over the family business. Taking up the torch, Louis in turn passes on the wonders of Quebec's Far North, the place his ancestors crossed on foot, following the caribou herd. The untouched river is home to majestic Atlantic salmon and speckled trout. There are even times when a black bear can be found on the other bank, watching the fishermen. Caribou sometimes cross the fishing grounds, offering an incomparable natural spectacle.
Une vision axée sur la Nature, le respect et la découverte
Since 2014, Louis has taken over management of the outfitter's reservations and logistics. He ensures that guests' stays run smoothly and are comfortable, while maintaining a personal relationship with each of them. His role is essential to guaranteeing a smooth and pleasant experience. In 2017, a turning point came with the acquisition of the outfitter. The closure of the caribou hunt represents a challenge, but Louis seizes the opportunity to reinvent the offering. He steers the outfitter towards fishing and wildlife observation, while respecting the issues of species preservation and sustainability. This new direction aims to offer an authentic, immersive and environmentally-friendly experience. Today, with his team, Louis continues to adapt the outfitter into a leading destination center for nature photography, salmon fishing and wildlife observation enthusiasts. Priority is given to wildlife photography and interpretation, to raise visitors' awareness of environmental issues, while offering them privileged access to spectacular scenery.
The outfitter becomes a place where man and nature meet, offering a unique experience. Louis and his team continue to evolve, offering a variety of photo packages, ecological interpretation sessions, and new activities for those wishing to discover the riches of Nunavik. The outfitter's philosophy is based on respect for the ecosystem and conservation of species, enabling it to offer an eco-responsible service in harmony with the land. In the years to come, Louis aims to further diversify his packages, integrate expert-led photography workshops and develop new environmentally-friendly adventure options. The goal is to make the outfitter a true magnet for nature lovers, where every visitor will leave with unforgettable memories while contributing to the preservation of Nunavik's exceptional territory. The outfitter continues to evolve, combining tradition and innovation, while respecting and admiring the pure, untamed beauty of Nunavik.
