Regarding permits:  I have heard I shouldn't do it....but I get one BWCA permit to cover the whole time I will be out and get the Canadian permit at PP for the days I will be in Q.  With the additional RABC permit I can feel comfortable crossing the "border" at will on Basswood, Crooked, Knife, etc. and not be worried about camping in BWCA if conditions require it.  ;)