The Miramichi River network in Canada's New Brunswick province produces more Atlantic salmon annually than any other river in the world. Some areas can be reached by private access only, but there are many public access areas, especially along the Little Southwest Miramichi River. The Renous River offers the best runs in late June and July. The Cains River is considered the most scenic and has the best fall fishing.
More than 60 percent of all North America's Atlantic salmon can be found in Newfoundland, which features more than 200 rivers fed by the cold Labrador current. Some annual runs are in excess of 30,000 fish. The fastest action is from June to early August. If salmon that run 20-plus lbs. are your goal, the best fishing is from late July to October.
The Bonaventure River in Quebec's Gaspe Peninsula boasts some of the world's clearest and most pristine rivers with underwater visibility often exceeding 150 feet. Anglers wade or canoe here to chase salmon. In the area known as the Grand Gasapedia, anglers have caught Atlantic salmon weighing in excess of 40 lbs.
Fishing licenses are required throughout Canada. In Quebec, anglers must have a special restrictive license for Atlantic salmon only. There are 17 different angling licenses, including Atlantic salmon licenses, in Newfoundland, where children can fish for Atlantic salmon without a license if they are with an adult who has a license. However, for a child to have his own catch limit, he must have his own license.
The thrill of the catch is enhanced by accommodations that complement the experience. At Wilson's Sporting Camps along the Miramichi River in McNamee, New Brunswick, you can stay in a two- or four-bedroom cottage and fish in Wilson's private Atlantic salmon pools. At Flo's Fishing Lodge, also along the Miramichi River in Doaktown, New Brunswick, Flo will be your fishing guide and serve you home-cooked meals.
Wilson's Sporting Camps
23 Big Murphy Lane
McNamee, NB, Canada E9C2P6
877-365-7962
Flo's Fishing Lodge
62 Nelson Hollow Drive
Doaktown, NB, Canada E9C1V2
506-365-7920