Arctic char
Arctic char, a cousin of salmon and trout, is the only fish species that inhabits Arctic lakes. This northern fish can be very tenacious when striving to free itself from a line.
Atlantic salmon
Whether in a river or at sea, large or small, Atlantic salmon is very popular with anglers. Its reputation is well established! Pay attention to upstream migration periods to increase your chances of catching them.
Brook or speckled trout
Brook trout—also known as speckled trout—is very popular in Quebec. Fishers prize its delicious flesh and appreciate its willingness to bite, making it ideal for beginners.
Brown trout
Related to Atlantic salmon, brown trout adapts to warm waters although it prefers cool waters. Its wariness can be a challenge for anglers, but you’ll be rewarded by its often imposing size.
Lake trout
Lake trout is found in deep waters. It differs from brook trout by its often impressive size. Catching it can be a good challenge given its combative nature.
Lake whitefish
The lake whitefish is a favourite of sport fishermen. With your dip net or lift net, fish for it in the cold waters of lakes and rivers. In Canada, it is the freshwater fish with the greatest commercial value.
Landlocked salmon
The landlocked Atlantic salmon, also called ouananiche, lives in fresh water. This is the only characteristic that distinguishes the two species. You’ll find it near smelt banks, in the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean and Outaouais regions.
Largemouth bass
Unlike its smallmouth cousin, the largemouth bass is a freshwater fish that likes warm, shallow waters. Look for it near vegetation, which is its favourite habitat.
Muskellunge
Fishing for muskellunge requires physical strength and some strong tackle, given its imposing size. This fish, being difficult to lure, is a good challenge even if you’re experienced. Needs perseverance!
Northern pike
The pike is a formidable predator, hence its nickname: the freshwater shark. Sport fishing enthusiasts appreciate the pike’s combativeness, and the flesh also makes good eating when fresh.
Rainbow trout
Rainbow trout is a fishing enthusiast’s delight due to its fighting spirit, beauty and speed. Its flesh is particularly tender, an exquisite reward for those who have the determination to catch it.
Sea trout
Brook trout is the same species as sea trout, except that sea trout sometimes migrates to salt water. Fish for sea trout in river estuaries and along streams to appreciate its fighting spirit.
Smallmouth bass
The smallmouth bass is a determined fish and a real challenge for sport fishermen. Stay alert: it will even jump right out of the water to escape the line.
Splake
Rarer than other trout, the splake is a hybrid between brook trout and lake trout, which makes it difficult to identify. Fish it in bodies of water where it has been introduced in recent years.
Stripped bass
You’ll get a lot of pleasure fishing for striped bass in the Gulf of St. Lawrence because it’s a combative fish with tricks to teach you. Expect it to be constantly moving and unpredictable.
Sturgeon
Sturgeon impresses with its large size and prehistoric appearance. A lover of muddy environments, it is in fact the largest freshwater fish in the country. Probably because it never stops growing!
