Strict, species-specific regulations
Salmon fishing in the river is only possible by fly fishing. The angler must hold a special salmon fishing licence. To this, he must add a daily right of access linked to the river where he wishes to go and respect the rules specific to each river (single hook, floating line...). To obtain the right of access to these rivers, you must go through the organization that manages the river where you want to go.
The ZEC (Controlled Exploitation Zone)
Salmon rivers in Quebec are managed by ZECs. The ZEC is a public territory managed by a non-profit organization. It manages access to the rivers and fishers must pay a fishing fee before casting their flies. The ZEC manages its sectors in two ways:
- Non-quota sector: this is a sector with an unlimited number of fishermen. It is ideal when you want to fish as quickly as possible, on a day-to-day basis for example. On the other hand, they can be very crowded and you find yourself waiting your turn to fish..
- Quota area: Area with a limited number of fishermen per day and where the allocation of the right to fish is by drawing lots. There are two types of draws: a first one taking place in winter to allocate places the following year and a second one taking place 48 hours in advance. The majority of the good pits are located in the quota areas to limit fishing pressure.
Considering the length of the rivers and the short time on site, it can be discouraging to go on an adventure, but the ZEC office staff will give you good advice to help you choose the right pools and flies. This is to give you the best possible chance for a successful fishing trip.
NB: Some fishing guides operate in the areas controlled by the ZECs and have permanent access to them and their clients. This can be a good option for fishing good areas without going through the draw
The outfitter
The outfitter is similar to a fishing centre, as can be found in Sweden or Ireland for example. It has the right to fish on the river where it is established and often offers accommodation, guiding, etc. Depending on what you are looking for, an outfitter can be the ideal solution for a fishing trip. Here we have an all-in-one.
In addition to this regulation, which can seem paralysing when one is used to fishing easily and freely, what must be remembered is the good management of rivers, the desire to preserve the species and the authorities' willingness to keep a dynamic sport fishing sector.
