Fishing

The word is out. Even though fishing fans like to keep their favourite spots secret, they can’t help raving about the fantastic Wolastoq (Saint John) River. International championships, pro tournaments, top-rated fishing programs, YouTube channels, and websites have all discovered the incredible sport fishing the Fredericton Capital Region offers. It’s a world-class fishery on what many pros call “the best multi-species river on the continent.”

“We caught a lot of fish and I’m like, this is like dying and going to heaven. It’s pretty darn good here in New Brunswick.” --Bob Izumi, fishing legend on his visit to Fredericton in 2024

2024 saw the biggest fishing tournament ever held in Canada hosted on the river, the Pan-American Black Bass Championship. It featured 200 of the best anglers in the world, from 10 countries. Organizers made the message clear: "This is a world-class fishery."

It’s simple, really. The river is full of fish. There’s something for everyone, from the sport fisherman to the hobbyist to first-timers, kids, and families. Its biggest claim to fame is that it’s the only river in North America where you can fish for the Triple Crown of sport fish: the musky, the striped bass, and the shortnose sturgeon. Those are some big fish!

There are lots of other species too, including trout, white and yellow perch, largemouth bass and striped bass, chain pickerel, bullhead catfish, pumpkinseed sunfish, and burbot. There’s always something in season once the ice is out of the river, and of course, there’s ice fishing too!

You won’t find a more ideal location to fish. It’s the best of both worlds: a pristine, beautiful river system with rolling hills, gorgeous views, and all the benefits of nature, and it’s just minutes away from the vibrant, culture-loving City of Fredericton. You can enjoy a day of fishing and be right back in town for dinner and a show, going from the tranquility of the outdoors to the comforts of the city.

It's so easy to get in a few hours of fishing, whether you’re just in town for the day, on a weekend getaway, or enjoying a vacation. There are lots of spots to put in a boat up and down the river, and along the tributaries of the Wolastoq (Saint John), including right in Fredericton, and marinas in Mactaquac, Nackawic, Oromocto, and Gagetown. Kayak fishing is growing by leaps and bounds, and the Hook & Paddle tournament series has become a huge, multi-location event from May to September. Or you can just toss in a line standing on the shore or from a pier, the fishing is great there too.

No gear? No problem. There are plenty of guides and outfitters to help you rent what you need, give you lots of great advice, and get you out on the water right away. You don’t even need a license to fish tidal waters from Fredericton and below.

There’s lots of room for everyone on the Wolastoq (Saint John River), famously called “The Rhine of North America” by National Geographic Magazine. You’re going to see seasoned anglers pulling out 40” monsters, and kids with a worm and a hook making life-long memories. This is fishing like it’s supposed to be.

If you’re not ready for a full-on fishing expedition, but would like to dip your toes into the fishing scene, visit Fredericton Junction during the annual Gaspereau Run on the Oromocto River. Each May, countless gasperau fish make their way inland from the Atlantic Ocean, and can be seen and caught in multitudes, swimming against the current of the Oromocto River. A short walk from the historic Currie House, you can take part in the fun - even catching fish with your bare hands! Bring along a net, a bucket, and a fishing license if you are over the age of 16! Bag limit of 20.

What species are there? 

There are 10+ sport fish available, and which ones depend on when and where you are.

Including: Large mouth bass & small mouth bass, trout, white perch & yellow perch, chain pickerel, bullhead catfish, pumpkinseed sunfish, short nose sturgeon, musky, stripe bass, and burbot. 

New Brunswick is known for World Class Stripers (Striped Bass) and Smallmouth Bass, and the word is getting out about the massive Musky in the Wolastoq (Saint John river).

Make sure to check the annual Fish Guide from the Department of Natural Resources for a full list of varieties, locations, seasonality, and other regulations.

Ice Fishing

Embrace the chill and discover the magic of ice fishing in the Fredericton Capital Region! Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland as you venture onto frozen waters to experience the excitement of this timeless tradition. With stunning landscapes and abundant fish species awaiting beneath the ice, every angler's dream becomes a reality in this serene and picturesque setting.  
The ice fishing season starts as soon as the ice on lakes and rivers is thick enough. All depending on the spot, the season generally runs from January to early March. 

By the end of May, all that ice is long gone and you can head out on a river or lake for a regular single- or multiday fishing trip. 

Whether you're a seasoned ice angler or a first-time adventurer looking for a guide, the Fredericton Capital Region offers endless opportunities for unforgettable experiences on the ice. 

Discover stories behind the catch! 

Dive into captivating fishing adventures through stories and videos about the Fredericton Capital Region and get a fresh perspective on the Fredericton Capital Region fishing scene.  

In the heart of Destination Nackawic, Fish’n Canada had a chance to participate in the new 2023 Destination Small Mouth Open, where they competed along the legendary Wolastoq (Saint John River). Read more here or watch the full video here.  

Join Kate and Martin from the Adventure Hunting Fishing the Show on an exciting muskie fishing adventure along the Wolastoq (Saint John River). Watch their adventure here.