Forty Years of Fishing in Newfoundland and Labrador
Hugh W. McKervill ~ Author, Photographer, Editorial Contributor Atlantic Salmon Journal
About 40 years ago, I caught my first Atlantic salmon in Newfoundland and Labrador. It was the beginning of an outdoor recreation relationship that happily continues to this day. As Author / Photographer, and as Editorial Contributor with the Atlantic Salmon Journal and other publications, what a privilege it has been to return to this wondrous province annually.
Whether hooking landlocked salmon (Ouananiche), or feisty Arctic char, or playing five and six pound brook trout, or thrilling to the sing of the reel as a brilliant salmon speeds away in any of the province’s 186 scheduled salmon rivers – the abundant waters of North America’s most prolific wilderness angling destination beckons and satisfies novice and experienced anglers alike.
While fishing in Newfoundland and Labrador, it is common to be circled overhead by a soaring eagle, or to be observed by a magnificent moose as it wades through the river not far from where your line swings. Shy caribou may pass gently along a barren ridge, or you might even see a rummaging black bear minding its own business on the opposite bank. Here, in this pristine wilderness, colourfully painted with wildflower blossoms and berries, life abounds.
But, it is not only awesome scenery and abundant wildlife that draws visitors back to this special place. It is also the warm hospitality of the people. Here, where generations have lived close to the natural land and sea, history has forged a unique culture; a people of generous and unpretentious spirit who welcome the visitor with genuine warmth and who delight in sharing the riches of their heritage.
Relentless time dictates that I will not get another 40 years of fishing in Newfoundland and Labrador. But for as long as I am able, I will renew my spirits and enrich my soul by returning to this wondrous place and its warm hearted people.
Whether hooking landlocked salmon (Ouananiche), or feisty Arctic char, or playing five and six pound brook trout, or thrilling to the sing of the reel as a brilliant salmon speeds away in any of the province’s 186 scheduled salmon rivers – the abundant waters of North America’s most prolific wilderness angling destination beckons and satisfies novice and experienced anglers alike.
While fishing in Newfoundland and Labrador, it is common to be circled overhead by a soaring eagle, or to be observed by a magnificent moose as it wades through the river not far from where your line swings. Shy caribou may pass gently along a barren ridge, or you might even see a rummaging black bear minding its own business on the opposite bank. Here, in this pristine wilderness, colourfully painted with wildflower blossoms and berries, life abounds.
But, it is not only awesome scenery and abundant wildlife that draws visitors back to this special place. It is also the warm hospitality of the people. Here, where generations have lived close to the natural land and sea, history has forged a unique culture; a people of generous and unpretentious spirit who welcome the visitor with genuine warmth and who delight in sharing the riches of their heritage.
Relentless time dictates that I will not get another 40 years of fishing in Newfoundland and Labrador. But for as long as I am able, I will renew my spirits and enrich my soul by returning to this wondrous place and its warm hearted people.