I would like to go to the Q next week. I see that the permit issuing stations are closed after about Sept 8. How do I go about getting a permit? This should be an easy question but I can't find an answer.
I would like to paddle the east side of the Q heading out of the Cache Bay area. I have an RABC. Thanks.

Tom

Go to ranger station. Metal box with self permit forms. I think still requires cash in the envelope.

quote billconner: "Go to ranger station. Metal box with self permit forms. I think still requires cash in the envelope."

I've actually left credit card info in the self-service envelope. They seemed to be OK with that too.

dd

Last time I went late, the outfitter said use Canadian cash, but think we used US and didn't seem to be a problem.

Sent you an email with some thoughts.
Sometimes I use the credit card option in the dropbox. I don't like the cash option since you have no record of it.

Is there a way to mail your payment and avoid having to physically place the money in a metal box?

Call the park office and ask. I think the issue will be is if you can get a form in advance. I'd guess mailing money and form to office would probably be accepted, but not sure they'll take a check.

Call - you're really asking for a special exception to their system.

They didn't like us paying with US finds a few years ago because it was worth less than the Loonie and it appears that is happening again, especially with the US shutdown. Back when the Loonie was worth only 80 cents American, I think they were fine with it. At least they never sent me a nasty letter about it.

quote ZaraSp00k: "They didn't like us paying with US finds a few years ago because it was worth less than the Loonie and it appears that is happening again, especially with the US shutdown. Back when the Loonie was worth only 80 cents American, I think they were fine with it. At least they never sent me a nasty letter about it."

Always paid in cash when self permitting. Just adjust if necessary the exchange rate. Right now it is about 2.7 cents on the dollar difference. I think in the U.S. favor.

Also paid cash sometimes when station is open no problem.

Just to simplify things when I go to Quetico via the Atikokan EP's, I generally stop at "Ryden's Border Store" in Grand Portage and exchange my U.S. currency for whatever I may need for my Quetico Park Fees, Fishing License, or other potential Canadian Expenses before driving through Customs. ("Border Bob's" in International Falls also offers the same service if your entering Canada via Fort Frances.)

Although most Canadian businesses accept U.S. currency, it just simplifies matters in cases like this. Additionally, if you're purchasing your Canadian Fishing License Tag and Outdoors Card from Service Ontario in person at the office in Atikokan, they do NOT accept U.S. currency! They do accept, Visa, MasterCard, American Express and I think Dinner's Club, but NOT Discover.

Nevertheless, there are times when it's helpful to have a pocket full of "Loonies" when visiting the Land of the Maple Leaf!

Hans Solo

Everything went great for my short Q Trip. I paddled up to the Cache Bay ranger station and put a personal check in the envelope then stuffed it into the steel box. I assume they'll cash the check even though they omit the use of a personal check in the instructions and payment types.

I caught the largest lake trout of my life. He fought me for 15 minutes until I was able to land him. I took a few pictures and immediately released this beautiful fish back to the lake. The trip overall was absolutely wonderful. What a great time.

Tom