Sarah Sproule is an Ojibway woman and a member of the Chippewas of Georgina Island. Owner of Wayeshkad, Sarah grew up trapping with her father and has carried on this tradition with her family.
Together they manage a registered trapline found on 22,000 acres of land around Skootamatta Lake, adjacent to Bon Echo Provincial Park in Addington Highlands. They collect and process the furs themselves, from trapping and processing to sewing the end product. Using their harvested furs, along with furs obtained by other trappers, at auction and from reserves, Wayeshkad produces a selection of hats, mittens, headbands, neck warmers and a variety of other items. Custom orders are also accepted. Products are available to purchase online and are shipped across Canada and the United States, as well as to Europe.
Wayeshkad offers experiential trapline tours in the winter for groups of up to 4 people. Participants stay in a newly-constructed cabin on their property, and they are immersed in an authentic trapping experience, seeing the process of trapping and harvesting from start to finish. Visitors are also educated on wilderness camping, survival, traditional medicines and winter travel. Guided bear hunts (non-resident hunts) are available for US visitors in the spring and fall. In the summer, guided fishing tours are offered. The cabin can also be booked by calling 613-661-9737 or emailing wayeshkad@outlook.com.
Wayeshkad means “in the beginning” in Ojibway. They respect the animals and are grateful for the resource they provide. Find out more.