Muskellunge or musky
The muskie is often the species that makes many a pike fisherman fantasize. Its behavior is different from that of the pike and trying to catch a big one is a good challenge. It is quite possible to fish it from the shore, in downtown Montreal or on some rivers around.
To maximize your chances of catching a fish, it is preferable to hire a guide to take you by boat, however, the technique commonly used is trolling. So if you want something more sporty, you will have to select your guide carefully.
More information on muskellunge here: Maskinongé
Smallmouth Bass
The smallmouth bass is my favorite species in the Montreal area. It is an abundant fish, very pleasant to fish, especially with surface lures, and very good fighter.
It is not uncommon to find good concentrations. The best time to fish it is between mid-June and the end of September.
More information on smallmouth bass here : Smallmouth bass
Walleye
The walleye is certainly the species that can be the most complicated to catch on a fishing trip. It is not rare to catch small subjects.
Large fish, as for pike-perch, are likely to be caught in winter, in very specific conditions, which reduces the possibilities of fishing for them during a short stay.
Atlantic salmon
The Atlantic salmon season runs from mid-June to the end of September. It is possible to catch them during the whole season, but the best periods are the opening and closing. About four hours drive from Montreal are the first salmon rivers, with the Gouffre River.
However, I recommend you to go a little further to reach rivers like the Matane, the Mitis, the Rimouski, and especially the famous Matapedia, with its numerous pools around the town of Amqi. The Atlantic salmon is a species that is very rare in France, so Quebec is a great opportunity to get your hands on this mythical fish.
More information on Atlantic salmon here: Atlantic salmon
Striped bass
Finally, the last of this top 5 of fish not to be missed is the striped bass! Even if it is present in the St. Lawrence River near Montreal, its fishing is prohibited.
It is therefore necessary to travel to the Gaspé Peninsula, between 6 and 10 hours drive from Montreal, to meet it. Its fishing and behavior are similar to those of the European sea bass, however, its larger size makes it a sport fish par excellence!
More information on the striped bass here : Striped bass
Personally, I find that its 5 species alone justify the trip. Especially since they allow you to fish in various environments with varied landscapes, on the seaside and on rivers of different sizes.
