Gaspé Atlantic Salmon
Quebec, Canada
In the heart of Québec’s Gaspésie Peninsula flows a collection of rivers so clear they seem almost unreal, and it is here that anglers travel from across the globe to chase the legendary Gaspé Salmon. These Atlantic salmon thrive in pristine waters that cut through rugged forests and dramatic landscapes, creating one of the most iconic fly-fishing destinations in North America.
Accommodation
River Lodge
Season
June – September
Species
Atlantic Salmon
Style
Fly-fishing
Perhaps the Clearest and most pristine rivers on the planet
Highlights:
- World-Famous Bonaventure River: Cast your fly in the legendary Bonaventure, famous for its gin-clear waters, powerful salmon runs, and exceptional opportunities for sight-fishing and dry-fly action.
- Three Legendary Rivers: Explore over 80 miles of prime salmon water across the Bonaventure, Grand Cascapedia, and Petite Cascapedia — rivers steeped in tradition and regarded as Canada’s crown jewels of Atlantic salmon fishing.
- Trophy-Sized Atlantic Salmon: Every season, anglers land giants weighing 30 to 40 pounds, with stories of even larger salmon prowling the deep pools. These rivers are home to some of the largest wild Atlantic salmon on the continent.
5 DAY PACKAGE
US$4,400 per angler
- Four full days guided fly-fishing on the Bonaventure, Grand Cascapedia or Petite Cascapedia Rivers.
- Four nights all-inclusive lodging, meals and drinks at the riverside lodge.
Quebec’s Gaspé Peninsula on the East Coast of Canada is renowned for some of the strongest runs of Atlantic Salmon in the world. The region is home to three legendary rivers, the Bonaventure, Grand Cascapedia and Petite Cascapedia, which each offer something different to the angler. The Bonaventure is famous for it’s unbelievable water clarity and sight-casting opportunities, and underwater visibility can often exceed 100 feet.
Fish start entering the rivers at the end of May and considerable numbers continue until late September. Fish between 30lb – 40lbs are not uncommon and trophies are landed every season. The average salmon is generally in the 10lb – 15lb region.
During the month of June, anglers will fish a combination of casting from traditional 26-foot river canoes and wading. July and August present anglers with the opportunity to wade fish during our action-packed dry fly season. September is an exciting month due to seasonal changes on the river so anglers can expect both wade and canoe fishing depending on water levels.
Camp Bonaventure has been described as one of the finest sporting lodges in North America. Nestled in a natural stand of white birch trees on the bank of the Bonaventure River, it is a classic camp, designed for fly-fishing enthusiasts.
Just steps away from the main lodge, you will find the private guest house which is the ideal accommodation for a family of four, two couples or four fishing friends. It features a spacious living room with a river-stone fireplace, two comfortable double bedrooms with private baths, a screened-in porch off each bedroom and its own patio.
Food & Drinks:
The Bonaventure experience is perfectly complemented by the enjoyment of homestyle cuisine. The Executive Chef, Diane, with a passion for both fishing and the culinary arts, has crafted a menu inspired by an assortment of seasonal favourites. A full breakfast is served every morning with daily specials, homemade wild berry jams and local maple syrup. Lunch is served by the river and includes hearty soups, fresh salads, savoury stews, delicious chilli, and a variety of sandwiches. The shore lunch is not just a refuelling stop but an experience that fosters a sense of camaraderie amongst fellow anglers and guides.
Upon your return to camp, guests are served a delicious full-course supper with wine and irresistible homemade desserts. The Camp’s culinary offerings will become an integral part of your stay, and a testament to our commitment to provide you with a memorable fly-fishing experience.
The lodge is located near Bonaventure on the Gaspé Peninsula of Quebec in Eastern Canada.
How to get there:
Anglers will fly to Bonaventure, Gaspé or Bathhurst via Montreal, Quebec. Air Canada provides daily flight service between Montreal and Bathurst, New Brunswick. The lodge is approximately 15 min away from Bonaventure Airport, 2 hours from Gaspé and a 3 hour drive from Bathurst. Transport from the airport will be arranged.
Documents Required:
A valid passport is required to enter Canada. We will inform you what is needed based on your nationality.
Travel Arrangements:
We will advise on best flight routes and cheapest or most convenient options pre-trip.
Sample Itinerary
Trip Duration: 5 nights
4 Days Fishing
Arrival on Sunday to fish Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or arrival on Wednesday to fish Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday.
Day 1:
Fly into Bonaventure, Gaspé or Bathurst, New Brunswick. Transport from the airport to the lodge and arrive in the afternoon/early evening.
Day 2 – 5:
Four full fishing days on either the Bonaventure, Grand Cascapedia or Petite Cascapedia Rivers.
Day 5:
Travel back to Bathurst for evening or early morning flight home.
Rates Per Angler:
4-Day Fishing Package : $4,400 USD per angler
What’s Included:
- Four nights accommodation at the lodge (double occupancy).
- All-inclusive breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as beverages and wine with dinner.
- Four full days guided Atlantic Salmon fishing with Orvis endorsed guides.
- Daily transportation between lodge and rivers.
- Round-trip transport from Bonaventure Airport to lodge.
- Quebec fishing licenses.
- Quebec Tourism Taxes.
- Bonaventure & Cascapedia River fees.
What’s Not Included:
- Commercial air travel to Bathhurst, New Brunswick or Bonaventure, Quebec.
- Shuttle transportation if landing in Bathurst, New Brunswick.
- Tips for guides & staff.
GALLERY
Frequently Asked Questions:
What makes the Gaspé rivers unique for Atlantic salmon fishing?
The rivers of the Gaspé Peninsula, particularly the Bonaventure, Grand Cascapedia, and Petite Cascapedia, are among the clearest salmon rivers in the world. Their transparency allows for true sight-fishing, giving anglers the rare chance to watch salmon react to a fly before the take. This sets Gaspé apart from most other Atlantic salmon destinations where the water is tannic or opaque.
When is the best time to fish for Gaspé salmon?
The season generally runs from early June through late September. Early summer brings fresh, bright salmon entering the rivers, while July and August offer excellent dry-fly opportunities thanks to warm conditions and stable flows. September often produces larger fish as fall-run salmon arrive, and the cooler water helps reinvigorate older fish already in the system.
Do I need special permits or access rights to fish these rivers?
Yes. Québec has a unique ZEC (zone d’exploitation contrôlée) system, which regulates access to salmon rivers. Some stretches are lottery-based while others can be reserved in advance. Rod numbers are strictly limited, ensuring sustainable fishing and fewer crowds. It’s essential to book early to secure the best beats.
How big do Atlantic salmon get in the Gaspé Peninsula?
The Gaspé is known for producing some of the largest Atlantic salmon in North America. Fish in the 15–20 pound range are common, and every season multiple salmon over 30 pounds are landed, particularly in the deep pools of the Grand Cascapedia. Anglers targeting these giants often swing larger flies or fish deeper runs during higher water conditions.
How do I get to the Gaspé Peninsula for a salmon fishing trip?
Most anglers fly into Québec City or Montreal, then connect to Gaspé Airport (YGP) or Bonaventure Airport (YVB), both located near the key salmon rivers. Direct flights from Montreal to Gaspé take just under two hours. Alternatively, some visitors choose to rent a car and make the scenic drive — about 10 hours from Montreal or 8 hours from Québec City — which allows for flexible travel and the chance to explore the peninsula’s dramatic coastline along the way.