Other Freshwater Fish
Learn MoreNewfoundland and Labrador is known for great Atlantic salmon and brook trout angling. However, the crystal clear water makes a great home for a variety of other fish species such as: large Arctic char, landlocked salmon, northern pike, lake trout, sea-run brook trout, and whitefish. The sheer numbers of fish and their large size makes this place an angler’s dream destination.
Large Arctic Char
A northern cousin to the brook trout, char may live 10 or more years and grow up to 15 pounds or more. It has been rumored that the Arctic char of Labrador may even break the record for the largest wild Arctic char, weighing in at a whopping 26.86 pounds.
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Landlocked Salmon
A world-record landlocked salmon – all 22 pounds, 11 ounces of it – was caught in Labrador in the Smallwood Reservoir. The ‘Ouananiche’ are lightning-fast swimmers and acrobatic jumpers, so prepare for some excitement.
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Northern Pike
Northern pike are found in both lakes and rivers throughout western, central, and southern Labrador. These big, mean, freshwater fish can grow to between 20 and 30 pounds and require a good, strong rod. Ask your outfitter about the best leaders and lures to use, and bring along a salmon net.
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Lake Trout
The lake trout, or 'laker', is another fish found in Labrador and not on the island of Newfoundland. It typically measures 15 to 20 inches in length. And it can grow big – up to 40 pounds. Find them in both lakes and rivers, but in deeper, cooler lake waters as the summer goes on. Whether you catch it by fly or spinner, this is a delicious fish. You can be sure lake trout are on the wanted list.
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Sea-Run Brook Trout
The sea-run brook trout can be caught in both Newfoundland and Labrador. It's the same species as the brook trout, but with an ocean-going bent. They're the same size and disposition as those who never venture to sea: anglers routinely catch fish in the three- to four-pound range – after a terrific fight.
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Whitefish
Both lake whitefish and round whitefish can be caught in Labrador. They can grow up to six pounds, topping out at 18 inches. Of the two, the lake whitefish is more common, especially in Labrador. And they're both tasty, so you're in for a treat.
Freshwater Fish Outfitters
The key to an amazing and successful angling adventure in Newfoundland and Labrador is using an outfitter. Outfitters act as your main point of contact before and during your trip, so be prepared to make long-lasting memories – and friends.
Experienced, knowledgeable guides know all the secret spots and best flies to use, which means you're in for the angling vacation of a lifetime. And, chances are, you'll come away with the big one and even bigger memories.
Rules and Regulations
Guide Requirements
Non-residents are required to hire a guide or an outfitter to fish inland waters in Newfoundland and Labrador. After all, they know this place like the backs of their hands – and can show you where and how to land trophy fish.
Licence Requirements for Non-Residents
All non-residents of Newfoundland and Labrador require an angling licence. When using an outfitter, they will supply the licence as part of the package. When using a guide only, you may or may not have to get your own licence. Use the Angler's Guide for information on obtaining licences, scheduled rivers, daily and season bag limits, as well as other angling requirements.
Angling in National Parks
Special licences are required to fish inland waters in our National Parks. These may be obtained from park administrative offices. Anglers should check with park officials on regulations that apply within National Parks – Gros Morne National Park, Terra Nova National Park, and Torngat Mountains National Park.