BigOarDeal: "When our group entered at LIS North we rented canoes and got our permit from Big Lake Wilderness Lodge, which is very close to that entry point. "
That's one I haven't used and hadn't thought of. That's far more convenient if you're coming in from the west. Andersen's is a good option but you would still have to drive north (from the turnoff to the Echo Trail) to pick up the permit. It would be interesting to compare the mileage and see which is closer.