When considering Atlantic salmon fly fishing destinations it is easy to overlook eastern Canada in favour of the likes of Iceland, Scotland and Norway, but there are some fantastic fishing options to be had here. We have compiled information, availability and pricing for three of Gaspé’s most notable salmon lodges, offering fishing on the beautiful Bonaventure and Grand Cascapedia rivers.
The Fishing
For Atlantic salmon fishing on Canada’s east coast we offer three lodges, all of which are run by the same management team and offer fantastic service. Each lodge is unique in terms of its location, experience and illustrious salmon fishing history. Two of the lodges; Camp Bonaventure and Salmon Lodge, fish private and public water on the Bonaventure River, the Petit and the Grand Cascapedia rivers from June to September. Each lodge tends to focus its fishing time on the river on which it is based, although there is some flexibility for anglers who want to move around or if conditions are tougher on one system or the other. The third lodge, The Club, operates on a stunning seven mile private section of the Bonaventure.
The Bonaventure River is legendary for its water clarity and sight casting opportunities, the Petit Cascapedia known for its clear picturesque pools holding big salmon and huge brook trout, and the famous Grand Cascapedia where salmon in the 40lb+ class are not uncommon. Your days on the river are enhanced by the experience and knowledge of the expert guides who have fished these waters for years and know where to put you over fish.
The fishing is done either by wading, or from the traditional 26-foot river canoes. Early season can allow for a combination of both while later in the season our pools are better fished by wading. Or relax during a float trip along miles of pristine river where you will experience not only great fishing along the way but the breath-taking scenery the area is famous for.
Gaspé is famous for its big fish and these rivers regularly catch fish over 30lb, even up to 40lb. The chance to sight cast to fish this size using dry flies in crystal clear water is unique to this part of the world. Whether you are a beginner just learning how to cast or an experienced fly caster seeking to perfect your skills with a single handed or Spey rod, this band of talented guides will take fantastic care of you.
The Lodges
Camp Bonaventure
Camp Bonaventure has for a long time been considered the premier Atlantic Salmon lodge on Quebec’s Gaspé peninsula on the east coast of Canada. Nestled in a natural stand of white birches on the bank of the Bonaventure River it is ideally located to provide anglers access to one of the clearest salmon rivers in the world. The lodge has been described as one of the finest sporting lodges in North America. Designed with every convenience in mind, including wireless broadband, it is built to satisfy the most discriminating sporting requirements.
The main lodge houses four comfortably appointed en-suite guest rooms with space for up to eight guests. In addition there is also a private two-bed guest house which is a perfect option for families or two couples. Fine dining is part of the Camp Bonaventure experience with the chef creating a wonderful menu including fresh local seafood, prime beef and many other mouth-watering creations. The final cherry on top is the fantastic heated Rod Room, a place in the dry for anglers to store rods and wet gear when not on the water and top up on coffee or a cold drink.
2023 Availability & Prices at Camp Bonaventure
All prices in Canadian Dollars (CAD$) and are per person based on shared room and shared guide.
23 to 26 July (3 night / 3 day): 2 rods – CA$4,200 per person
24 to 27 August (3 night / 3 day): 2 rods – CA$4,200 per person
27 August to 3 September (7 night / 7 day): 4 rods – CA$9,800 per person
10 to 17 September (7 night / 7 day): 4 rods – CA$9,800 per person
Cost excludes; international travel, lodge transfers, fishing licence, Tourism Tax, single room/guide supplement, alcohol, gratuities.
Salmon Lodge
Salmon Lodge has graced the banks of the Grand Cascapedia since the late 1800s and has throughout that time welcomed salmon fishing enthusiasts through its doors. Perched on an 80-foot bluff overlooking the majestic Grand Cascapedia River, it’s the perfect setting for a salmon fishing trip. The lodge hosts up to 12 guests (eight fishing plus four non-fishing) in complete comfort. Well-appointed bedrooms, an inviting living room and spacious dining room with fireplaces create a relaxing atmosphere.
A highlight of staying at Salmon Lodge is the spectacular view from the screened porch and deck overlooking the meandering course of the Grand Cascapedia. Mouth-watering meals, including fresh lobster, local seafood and sizzling steaks off the grill, are prepared daily by the chefs. The staff provide the most important ingredient of all—exceptional personal service. Although not as grand as the one at Camp Bonaventure, the Rod Room is well-appointed and a place in the dry for anglers to store rods and wet gear when not on the water and top up on coffee or a cold drink.
2023 Availability & Prices at Salmon Lodge
All prices in Canadian Dollars (CAD$) and are per person based on shared room and shared guide.
13 to 17 August (4 day / 4 night): 4 rods – CA$6,000 per person
27 August to 3 September (7 night / 7 day): 4 rods – CA$10,500 per person
3 to 6 September (3 night / 3 day): 4 rods – CA$4,500 per person
18 to 24 September (7 night / 7 day): 2 rods – CA$10,500 per person
Cost excludes; international travel, lodge transfers, fishing licence, Tourism Tax, single room/guide supplement, alcohol, gratuities.
The Club
The Club on the Bonaventure is the newest addition to the group of world class fishing lodges. Once called The Canadian Salmon Club, it was a members only lodge with a history stretching back more than 100 years. The Club is made up of a series of interconnected buildings perched on a bluff overlooking the crystal clear Bonaventure River. It features six private bedrooms, each with a private bathroom and screened porch. The main lodge boasts a comfortable and well-appointed Great Room with a wonderful fireplace and cosy leather furniture. Overlooking the river, the dining room has the best view of the river, with its own fireplace, it is the perfect setting to enjoy a delicious meal after a day on the river. At the Club you will find the perfect balance between a full service destination and the freedom to relax and feel at home.
The Club is located 25 miles upriver from the estuary on some of the best Atlantic salmon fishing in the world. Perfectly situated, allowing our guests the opportunity to fish some of the best holding pools on the river with exclusive access to a seven mile stretch of the crystal clear Bonaventure. The Upper beat features famous pools such as Double Camp, Gallagher and Burnt Camp, while our lower section is home to Portage, Comical John and the famous Deep Water Ledge to name a few.
2023 Availability & Prices at The Club
All prices in Canadian Dollars (CAD$) and are per person based on single room and shared guide.
28 June to 1 June (3 night / 3 day): 2 rods – CA$6,000 per person
3 September to 10 September (6 night / 6 day): 2 rods CA$12,000 per person
17 to 20 September (3 night / 3 day: 2 rods – CA$6,000 per person
Cost excludes; international travel, lodge transfers, fishing licence, Tourism Tax, single guide supplement, alcohol, gratuities.
For more information about our Gaspé salmon lodges, or Canada in general, please contact Peter McLeod or Alex Jardine, alternatively you can call our office on +44(0)1980 847389.