Thinking of taking a hunting trip? What if each morning, you could set out with a guide, a local with years of experience, who leads you to the perfect spot? Meanwhile, back at camp, the staff is cleaning up your space to feel like home and already preparing a warm meal, ready to welcome you after a long day.
Your experience on a trophy whitetail hunt is shaped by more than just the deer, the location, and your equipment—it’s the people who guide, support, and enrich your journey, especially when you’re working with professional hunting outfitters
Previously, we’ve shared the story of Ed and Faryn, the heart and soul of Elusive Outfitters. Now, in this article, we’re shining the spotlight on the dedicated team behind them. Below, you’ll discover how their unique talents and love for hunting turn each day into an unforgettable experience from start to finish.
Experienced Hunting Outfitters That Offer a Heartwarming Family Touch
Each year, our regular guests eagerly anticipate seeing Mario and Diane Ruel, the husband-and-wife team who are at the heart of everything that makes Elusive so special. Mario is one of our two guides, while Diane is responsible for housekeeping and cooking.
Mario and Diane live in the nearby town of Leoville and have known Faryn for most of her life, which led them to join the Elusive team. They are incredibly family-oriented and have three grown daughters, each with children of their own, and love spending as much time with them as they can.
When they’re not working at Elusive or with family, Diane is busy with her upholstery business, showcasing her impressive sewing skills. She also spent many years as the local bus driver. During the off-season, the couple enjoys snowmobiling, camping, fishing, and experimenting with new cooking and smoking techniques. They look forward to their annual winter escape to Arizona after whitetail season.
Mario, known as “Mr. Mechanical” around town, is a skilled tradesman with expertise in plumbing and heating. His talents go beyond his trade, though—he’s the go-to guy when anyone in town needs help with a household project. The local “old ladies” often call on him for their Honey-Do lists, and he’s always happy to lend a hand, free of charge. His generosity, gentle spirit, and love of helping others make him a true community asset.
Providing A Taste of Home Alongside A Personalized Hunting Experience
As the “mother hen” of our hunting lodge in Saskatchewan, Diane’s talent in the kitchen will especially elevate your entire stay with her incredible home-cooked meals. Here’s what you can expect on our guided whitetail hunts:
· Breakfast: Mornings at the camp are something to look forward to, with elaborate feasts that set the tone for a great day of hunting. Breakfasts include favorites like French toast with sausage, customizable eggs, and a spread of fresh fruit, yogurt, muffins, and Diane’s signature baked goods.
· Lunch: As hunters head out into the field, Diane makes sure to pack hearty sandwiches, hot chicken broth, and steaming cups of coffee or hot chocolate to keep everyone fueled for the day. For those who stay back at camp, they can expect a nourishing soup to enjoy!
· Dinner: While you’re out in the forest, Diane is busy preparing a delicious dinner and a freshly made dessert. Past favorites have included mouthwatering smoked pork ribs, hearty lasagna, comforting ham and scalloped potatoes, and tender Mississippi roast. On American Thanksgiving, she even goes all out, creating a full holiday meal with roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes, and Caesar salad, ensuring the camp feels like home no matter the occasion.
Although they each have their own roles, Mario and Diane are always ready to lend a hand where needed—Mario’s expert bed-making skills and Diane’s ability to chop wood are just a few examples of how they work together. Both are incredibly kind, caring, and generous, always willing to go above and beyond to create cozy accommodations that offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Their genuine hospitality and shared dedication to making every single person feel at home are just a few of the many reasons why guests return year after year.
Laughter and Knowledge with Our Expert Hunting Guides in Saskatchewan
Dave Anderson, Ed’s older brother, is a big part of what makes Elusive such a special place. The two of them have always been close, and it was a natural fit to have Dave join the team as a guide. Past guests always say that their bond adds a lot to the camp’s laid-back and friendly atmosphere. When he’s not supporting our guided whitetail hunts during the rut, Dave works as a full-time pasture rider. Thanks to that background, he has developed an incredible hard work ethic and deep connection to the land that influences how he approaches hunting and helps us be seen as top-rated whitetail outfitters.
Beyond his hunting expertise, Dave has a personality that truly makes him stand out. Whether it’s sharing stories or lending a hand, Dave’s the kind of guy you’re always happy to have around. He’s always up for a laugh, and his easygoing nature will help you feel right at home.
Alongside Mario, Dave takes care of all the important behind-the-scenes work that ensures everything runs smoothly during your hunt. From managing the baiting program and setting up trail cameras to maintaining equipment and skinning trophies, they are both always working to make sure enjoy your time with us. Our gallery of proud, smiling hunters with their trophies is a testament to their skill and dedication!
Connect with the best whitetail hunting team at Elusive
The Elusive team is a family dedicated to ensuring every guest thoroughly enjoys our guided whitetail hunts, from the expert guidance of Mario and Dave to the heartwarming hospitality and delicious meals provided by Diane. Everyone carefully considers each detail, works together seamlessly, and brings their unique skills to the table, creating a welcoming atmosphere that guests return to year after year.
Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a first-timer, we hope you’ll leave with a trophy, but more than that, we hope you go home with a sense of belonging in a place where hard work, dedication, and good company come together to create an experience like no other. Ready to take the next step? Connect with us today to book your hunt with experienced Saskatchewan deer hunting outfitters, and start planning your unforgettable adventure with this incredible group of people.