CATCH AND RELEASE
Many outfitters enforce a limited kill of game fish and follow catch and release with one trophy fish retained or enforce camp bag limits which are more limited than those listed above. This philosophy protects the resource and assures quality trophy angling for future generations. Ask your outfitter about his/her camp's policy.
SALMON
Regulations announced in 1999 designate salmon rivers on the island of Newfoundland and in Southern Labrador (Strait of Belle Isle area) into four classes. Obtain a copy of the current Anglers
Guide for complete information. In general terms, Class I rivers are those with the most numerous salmon stocks, and Class IV rivers are those with the least numerous.
Salmon Angling Log
You can make a contribution to salmon management by filling out and returning to DFO your Salmon Angling Log. Make your log entry at the end of each fishing day.
ANGLING SEASONS
The angling seasons for the various rivers are outlined in detail in the Anglers
Guide.
FALL FISHERIES
There will be a fall catch and release season only on the main stems (no tributaries) of Humber River and Gander River from September 8 to October 7. The daily catch and release limit will be 4 fish.
BARBLESS HOOKS
Only barbless hooks may be used for angling on all scheduled salmon waters in Newfoundland and Labrador.
TAGGING REQUIREMENTS
Each salmon licence comes with as colour-coded and individually numbered Pay close attention to the tagging instruct because tags must be used in a specific For instance, some are for use on Class 11 only, some are for Labrador only, and some are catch and release only.
SALMON FLIES
Traditional salmon fly patterns work well on most Newfoundland rivers. Hooks in sizes 4 to 8 would be desirable in early season, while sizes 6 to 14 may be required as water levels fall in the waning weeks. Generally speaking, the moose hair winged flies are preferred, and are readily available in most retail sporting goods stores across the province or may be supplied by outfitters or guides at a nominal cost. These flies are produced by local fly tyers. The Wuiff series of dry flies and Bomber Bugs are also quite productive for salmon or trout.
TROUT FLIES
The popular American or English wet and dry fiy patterns in sizes 10 or smaller and the grey and brown hackle dry dies can be used to advantage. Most popular trout fly patterns work well for native brook trout and are available at many retail outlets. The Orange Bug is also a popular trout and salmon fly pattern.
BROWN TROUT
Despite its density of human population, the Avalon Peninsula offers excellent angling for brown trout, especially in rivers and ponds with access to the sea. Late spring and early summer are prime times, although browns may be taken throughout the summer. Biscay Bay, Salmon River at Avondale, and the lower Salmonier River sustain good runs of brown trout, while the lower Hopeall River provides good rainbow trout angling during April.
TUNE FISHING
Bluefin tuna are found in Newfoundland coastal waters from mid-June to mid-October. Information on tuna charter services, rates, etc. may be obtained by writing or calling:
Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation
Tourism Division
P.O. Box 8730, St. John's, NF A1B 4K2
Tel: /
REPORTING POACHERS
The Department of Fisheries and Oceans in the Newfoundland Region has put in place toll free telephone reporting systems aimed at controlling illegal fishing in the provinces inland and coastal waters. Any person who observes what he or she believes to be salmon poaching or other illegal fishing activity, whether recreational or commercial in nature, is encouraged to report such activity to DFO authorities. A report can be made simply by dialing the Report-A-Poacher number (1-800-
563-7277) in the Newfoundland Region. Reports will be investigated immediately. Callers may give their names if they wish, or remain anonymous.
CLOTHING REQUIREMENT
Since nights may be cool, even in mid-summer, the visitor should bring along warm, light clothing. Waterproof clothing is a necessity. Waders are necessary on most streams.
FISHING LABRADOR
Labrador is the mainland portion of the province with a land mass of some 292,000 km2, nearly 8,000 km of coastline and a population of only 30,000 persons. Labrador remains a wilderness only lightly touched by human habitation. This isolation and limited access has served to protect and conserve the natural beauty and tremendous fish stocks of the countless lakes and rivers of Labrador. Prolific hatches of insects during short summer months contribute to the growth of world-record speckled trout, while minimal commercial fishing pressure ensures substantial runs of Atlantic Salmon, sea-run trout and battling Arctic char along the coast. Further inland, huge lakes harbour landlocked salmon, powerful lake trout, whitefish and northern pike. All are a challenge on spinning tackle or fly rod. The variety, the number and sizes of these fish species creates an angling paradise unequalled in eastern Canada.
Cruise with us to the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve aboard one of our 46 foot passenger vessels for a two hour "adventure of a lifetime!" Whale and bird life will leave you breathless.
