🎣 Hooked on the Fjord: A Complete Guide to Fishing in Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, Quebec
Nestled between the boreal forest and the glacial-carved fjords, the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region of Quebec is a paradise for anglers and nature lovers alike. With its vast network of lakes, rivers, and the iconic Saguenay Fjord, this region offers one of the most diverse and thrilling fishing experiences in North America. Whether you're a seasoned angler chasing trophy trout or a curious traveler looking to cast your first line, this guide will help you plan the ultimate fishing getaway.
🎯 When Is Fishing Season in Quebec?
Fishing in Quebec is technically open year-round, running from April 1 to March 31 of the following year. However, the best time to fish depends on the species and the type of experience you're after:
Spring (April–June): Ideal for trout, walleye, and pike. Rivers and lakes thaw, and fish become active.
Summer (July–August): Peak season for lake trout, landlocked salmon, and family-friendly fishing trips.
Fall (September–October): Cooler waters bring out aggressive feeding behavior—great for trophy catches.
Winter (December–March): Ice fishing season! Try your luck with smelt, cod, and redfish in cozy ice cabins.
Each fishing zone in Quebec has its own regulations, so always check the for up-to-date rules and species limits.
🐟 What Fish Can You Catch in Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean?
This region is a unique blend of freshwater and saltwater ecosystems, especially in the Saguenay Fjord, where the St. Lawrence Estuary meets inland rivers. Here are some of the most sought-after species:
Top Species to Catch
Brook Trout (Truite mouchetée): Found in rivers and lakes; prized for its fight and flavor.
Lake Trout (Touladi): Deep-water predator common in Lac Saint-Jean and Monts-Valin lakes.
Landlocked Salmon (Ouananiche): A regional specialty, especially in Lac Saint-Jean.
Rainbow Smelt (Éperlan arc-en-ciel): Popular during ice fishing season.
Atlantic Cod & Redfish: Found in the deeper, saltier waters of the Saguenay Fjord.
Northern Pike (Brochet): Aggressive and abundant in shallow bays and weedy lakes.
American Eel & Black Sturgeon: Rare but fascinating catches in the fjord.
🗺️ Best Fishing Spots in Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean
1. Saguenay Fjord National Park
This glacial fjord is a dream for both summer and winter fishing. In summer, you can fish from kayaks or boats for cod, redfish, and smelt. In winter, the fjord transforms into a colorful village of ice-fishing cabins.
📍 🎣 Best for: Ice fishing, deep-sea species, scenic views 🚣 Activities: Kayaking, hiking, whale watching
2. Lac Saint-Jean
This massive lake is home to landlocked salmon, lake trout, and walleye. The surrounding towns like Alma and Roberval offer easy access and plenty of outfitters.
🎣 Best for: Summer trolling, salmon fishing 🏖️ Bonus: Sandy beaches and family-friendly resorts
3. Rivière Saint-Jean & Rivière Petit-Saguenay
These rivers are legendary for Atlantic salmon and sea-run brook trout. Fly fishing is popular here, and the scenery is breathtaking.
🎣 Best for: Fly fishing, salmon runs 🌲 Tip: Book early—permits are limited during peak season
4. Parc national des Monts-Valin
High-altitude lakes and rivers in this park are stocked with trout and char. It’s a remote, peaceful spot for backcountry fishing.
🎣 Best for: Wilderness fishing, hiking 🏕️ Lodging: Rustic cabins and campgrounds
5. Peche Aventures Saguenay
Located in La Baie, this outfitter offers guided fishing trips, ice fishing cabins, and fjord expeditions.
📍 🎣 Best for: Guided trips, family-friendly experiences
🏡 Where to Stay: Chalets & Cottages for Rent
After a long day on the water, nothing beats relaxing in a cozy chalet. Here are some top-rated options in the region:
🛶
This site lists over 100 chalets in Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, from rustic cabins to luxury lakefront homes.
Chalet Akoya (Chambord): Lakefront, sleeps 8, $360/night
La Muraille (St-David-de-Falardeau): Near Monts-Valin, $170–$190/night
Chalet du Petit Édouard (L’Anse-Saint-Jean): Fjord views, $250/night
🏔️
Specializes in upscale cottages with spas, saunas, and mountain views.
Domaine-St-Fiacre (L’Anse-Saint-Jean): Fjord views, 12 guests, $560/night
Le Harfang-28: Sauna, 3 minutes from Mont Édouard, $513/night
🏕️
Offers a wide range of chalets with filters for waterfront, pet-friendly, and ski-in/ski-out options.
Le Betula (St-Félicien): Sleeps 9, $225–$250/night
Chalet Playa Del Nadeau (Chambord): 8 guests, $2,100/week
🧭 Tips for Tourists: Making the Most of Your Fishing Trip
🪪 Licenses & Regulations
You’ll need a Quebec fishing license, which can be purchased online or at local outfitters. Special permits are required for salmon fishing and certain ZECs (controlled harvesting zones).
🧰 Gear & Rentals
Most outfitters offer gear rentals, including rods, bait, and ice augers. If you're new to fishing, consider booking a guided trip—they’ll handle the logistics and teach you the ropes.
🧊 Ice Fishing Experience
From January to March, the Saguenay Fjord becomes a frozen village of colorful cabins. Rent one for the day or overnight and fish for smelt, cod, and redfish while staying warm and cozy.
🛶 Summer Activities
Not into fishing 24/7? Try kayaking, whale watching, or hiking in the fjord. The region also boasts microbreweries, cheese farms, and Indigenous cultural centers.
🍽️ Local Cuisine
Don’t miss regional specialties like tourtière du Lac-Saint-Jean, smoked trout, and blueberry pie. Many chalets come with full kitchens, so you can cook your catch!
📸 Instagram-Worthy Moments
Sunrise over Lac Saint-Jean with your first catch of the day
A colorful ice-fishing cabin glowing under the northern lights
Casting a fly into the misty waters of Rivière Saint-Jean
A sizzling trout fillet on the grill at your lakeside chalet
🧳 Final Thoughts: Why Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean Is a Must-Fish Destination
Whether you're drawn by the thrill of landing a landlocked salmon, the serenity of casting into a glassy lake, or the novelty of ice fishing in a fjord, Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean delivers. It’s not just a fishing trip—it’s a full-on immersion into Quebec’s wild heart.
So pack your tackle box, book that chalet, and get ready to reel in memories that will last a lifetime.
