The Dryden Mug

The collaboration

A familiar northern stop became a Dryden mug.

Dryden was always part of our route from Sioux Lookout to the United States. We would travel down Highway 502 toward Fort Frances, stopping in Dryden for supplies at Walmart, coffee at Tim Hortons, fuel at the Co-op, lunch, banking, and appointments. Our dog Hunter’s veterinarian was also in Dryden, so it became a practical and familiar part of northern life for our family.

The paper mill is unmistakable on the skyline, and Max the Moose was always a favorite for our children. We also attended the Little Bands and All Bands hockey tournaments to watch friends play, making hockey and the gatherings around it part of our own memories of the community.

QSL Bait & Tackle felt like a natural home for the mug because so many hunters, anglers, and travelers stop there for supplies. A locally drawn mug makes a meaningful souvenir to discover while picking up minnows or fishing gear. It has been great collaborating with Jennalea and Nigel on both the original Dryden Mug and a 40-ounce tumbler.