Fishing Spots in Montreal

When one thinks of Montreal, the largest French-speaking city in North America, images of drifting down the St. Lawrence River aboard a dinner boat enjoying some elegant cuisine and sampling the city's exotic nightlife come to mind. However, for the more adventurous souls, one can land a walleye, northern pike, sturgeon, trout, muskie, as well as smallmouth and largemouth bass within the confines of this cultured city.

When local fishing guide Marc Thorpe fishes these waters, he uses Shimano saharas with Bob Izumi series 6.6-foot rods. For lures, he prefers Lindy max gap jigs with Munchies as a rubber teaser, Berkley power bait and Reef Runners.

Favorite hot spots to target fish include the structures near the commercial piers and around the Boucherville Islands. While fishing is permitted near the Boucherville Islands, anglers are asked to limit the use of motorized engines, so that all can enjoy the beauty of these islands. Also, those that chose to fish in Parc national des îles de-Boucherville should be advised that there is limited shore space available, and that the park does not provide any services for anglers.

For those that wish to cast their line from shore, check out the La Diable, L'Assomption and La Pimbina sectors in Parc national du Mont-Tremblant. This huge wilderness national park offers a choice territory for fishing enthusiasts in search of close contact with nature. Brook trout and northern pike are the most common species in the park, though one could land a Brown or trout. To reserve a lake two days in advance call the Sales and Reservations Office at 800-665-6527. If reserving a lake for the next day, call 819-688-2281. Any lakes that have not been reserved will be available as of 7am the same day at the park information kiosks on a first come, first served basis. You cannot reserve a lake more than 2 days in advance.

Another favorite fishing spot is the Choinière reservoir in Parc national de la Yamaska, where anglers can cast their lines for yellow perch, smallmouth bass, chain pickerel, sunfish, and catfish. Rowboat, pedal boat and canoe rentals are available. Also, while the Parc national d'Oka is not a known for its fishing, anglers can try to land a perch, sand pike, northern pike, bullhead. A boat launch is available once one enters the park and pays the access and parking fee. Fishing is permitted from the lakeshores only around the boat launch area.
While the fishing season runs from the end of April through November 30th, pick up a copy of the latest fishing regulations, as many species have shorter fishing seasons. In particular, for those targeting the infamous hard-hitting muskies, the 2006 season will run from June 16th through November 30th.

Die-hard outdoor enthusiasts can check out the Hunting, Fishing & Camping Show. This three-day show features exhibitors highlighting a range of outfitters and products for those wishing to plan a Canadian adventure.

So the next time you plan a business trip or a vacation to Montreal, consider backing your fishing gear. It just might come in handy.

Useful Links

Marc Thorpe Guiding
www.marcthorpeguiding.com

Hunting, Fishing & Camping Show
www.salonchassepeche.ca
(Note: website is French only)

Fishing licenses and updates on fishing regulations
www.mrnf.gouv.qc.ca/english/publications/online/wildlife/fishing-regulations/index.asp

Lodging and other activities in the Montreal area
www.tourisme-montreal.org or www.bonjourquebec.com