Fishing reel

Miramichi River

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Species: Salmon, Shad, Trout

Coordinates: 47° 1’² 8.6

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Location: New Brunswick

Why we chose it

In 2012, ranked #11 in all-time hot spots

There may be no more storied Atlantic salmon water in the country—or perhaps the world—than the Miramichi, which has been an elite angling destination since the late 19th century. A generation ago, the river was in trouble, but it once again hosts runs of 30-pound silver torpedoes, fresh from the ocean. While much of the river is privately controlled, there are still some good public pools, and many kilometres of open water along the main tributaries.

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In 2009, Shad; Plentiful, meaty fish that are excellent for smoking 

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When to fish: As the fish head upstream in late spring.
Where to fish: Wade the section of river running through the town of Miramichi.
Tip: Most anglers customize their own flies on site for this fly-fishing-only fishery.

—George Polsky, manager at Caribou Lures

In 2008, Atlantic salmon; World-famous Atlantic salmon river

When to fish: April 15 to October 15.
Where to fish: The lower stretches of the Main Southwest Miramichi.
Tip: Early season, try size 2 to 4 brightly coloured wet flies. Later, use size 6 to 8 wet flies or size 4 to 8 dries.

—Italo Labignan, host of Canadian Sportfishing