Fishing at Newfoundland
Newfoundland and Labrador was built on the fishery and its people have a deep connection to the sea. In recent years, there have been changes to the province's commercial fishery. Some fisheries have closed down and others are enjoying vigorous growth. Yet fishing for food, sport, and pleasure in Newfoundland is much the same as it has been for generations – only better in some areas. Actually, brook trout fishing is the fastest growing sport in the province.
With Newfoundland's endless lakes and ponds, an abundance of fish, as well as a variety of species and sizes, this province is a fisher's paradise. Anglers can go fly-fishing for wild Atlantic salmon on remote rivers in the province. Salmon can weigh in over 30 pounds.
In fact, Newfoundland and Labrador has been the source of world-record landlocked salmon. Anglers can land trophy wild salmon in Newfoundland and Labrador. As well, Newfoundland has brook trout (weighing up to eight pounds), Arctic char, northern pike, and whitefish.
Trout Types
Brook Trout
Brook trout is a delicious for the dinner table or over the campfire. Many diners prefer them over brown or rainbow trout. Brook trout are an unpredictable lot. One day you can catch them easily and the next day they hide away from trouters. Newfoundland's crystal clear waters account for brook trout feeling at home in this province. Some of the world's best brook trout waters are in sparsely populated regions of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Lake Trout
Lake trout are considered a deep water fish. Within certain areas of Labrador, lake trout (15 to 25 lb) are concentrated in large numbers in shallow and fast-flowing water. Northern Newfoundland has excellent structure for holding large lakers. The fish can be caught using surface techniques or by trolling. The biggest fish are found in the deepest waters.
Fishing Lodges
Newfoundland and Labrador has exceptional fishing lodges across the province. These cedar-log lodges offer the best opportunity for angling and outdoor adventure. Local hiking trails can be easy walking or might lead into a real wilderness or up to majestic mountains. Along with fishing, tourists can enjoy whale watching, iceberg viewing, puffin watching, and caribou sightings. Of course, anglers are also near local attractions including everything from an impressive park like Gros Morne to kids' themed parks.
The province's fishing lodges are the perfect vacation spot for avid anglers – on their own, with family or friends, or as part of a corporate group. Handcrafted quilts, hand-hooked rugs, and hot tubs add style and class to island fishing lodges. Indeed, all Newfoundland cottages and hotels, cozy inns, bed and breakfasts, and fishing lodges feature luxurious touches. Island accommodations are available at affordable prices.
Newfoundland and Labrador sport fishing outfitters have set up lodges along some of Canada's most pristine and remote river systems. Several Newfoundland and Labrador outfitters organize all-inclusive vacation packages including meals, maid service, guides, air transportation to and from the lodge, and licenses. Outfitters will either have fishing gear included in the package or available at their camp.
For anglers who want to organize their own camping and fishing trip, they will need camping supplies and considerable fishing gear for some fishing expeditions. Yet for trouting at a pond near communities, an angler needs only a pole and preferred lure – except for the usual essential items for any outing (safety, first aid, cell phone - if there is service in the area).
The province's outfitters and their experienced guides know about their subject and the local area. They take you to the fish and set up the scene for an enjoyable day in the spectacular Newfoundland outdoors. In addition, they arrange a delicious meal and entertainment for guests (music, song, dance, comedy) after a day's fishing.
With diverse attractions - day trips and expedition charters, wilderness outposts and fly-in camps and resorts, varied species and different sizes - Newfoundland and Labrador fishing is unrivalled anywhere in the world.
Unique Fishing Adventures
Fishing and Canoe Expedition
Only one company in Newfoundland's Humber Valley offers full salmon fishing and canoe expeditions. Salmon fishing in western Newfoundland is considered the ultimate in island salmon fishing. This region has 25 prime rivers (including the Humber River, Main River, Harry's Falls, and more) in the immediate vicinity and some anglers have bagged six or seven per trip. Newfoundland fishing adventures can include fly-casting school, helicopter fishing, and ocean fishing tours.
Fisherwomen
One Newfoundland outfitter encourages groups of women to enjoy a fishing outing. This business is not exclusively centered on women. Yet the owner puts extra emphasis on encouraging women to get more involved in different types of fishing. Many women are active anglers but this outfitter wants every woman to give it a try.
Newfoundland Fishing Regulations
