Atlantic Salmon, Brook Trout, Fishing Guides Newfoundland

Trip Details, Faq's, and Reservation Information

Dear Potential Fishing Partner;

Thank you for your interest in our Newfoundland fishing adventures. The main river we fish is the Humber River which is recognized by salmon fisherman globally as one of the best in the world! Moreover, the Dept. of Fisheries and Oceans has designated the Humber as one of the few rivers in Canada to receive CLASS I status. This is a testament to the strength of the salmon runs. In addition, it also means the river will not be closed during periods of low water when salmon are more concentrated. On the lower section of the Humber we are blessed with the cooling effects of the very deep Deer Lake during times of little rain and salmon concentrations. We are also mobile should fishing slow down in any one of the dozen rivers within 45 minutes of the lodge. A distinct advantage!

The following is a list of frequently asked questions:

1) When is the best time to book a trip?
This depends on the kind of fishing you want to do. Large trophy class salmon are most abundant from late July until late September and are catch and release only for salmon in excess of about 6-7 lbs. (24.75 inches) all season long. Photos and measurements can be taken for a fiberglass replica as taxidermists no longer need the fish's skin to make a mount. Salmon under this limit (a.k.a. grilse) are most abundant from mid June through early August but some rivers have a September run as well. The legal daily retention limit is 2 grilse per day. The best trout fishing is had in late May through early June and late July through the first week in September. Late May has a major ant "hatch" in the Humber Valley, while the first week in July has a major caddis fly hatch. Many other hatches including midges, caddis, stone fly, etc. are available throughout the season at various times on the different rivers. Brook trout and sea run brook trout are caught throughout the season with a daily retention limit of 5 lbs. or 12 trout which ever comes first (NB: the 5 pound mark is most likely).

2) How many fish should I expect to catch a day?
As every traveled angler knows this expectation is best erred on the side of caution so as not to be disappointed. Even some of the best locations in the world will have slow days! The typical catch depends on many factors such as: angling experience, weather, water levels and temperature (on the smaller rivers), the number of heavy daily runs of fish encountered, etc. Keeping this in mind, most people (even beginners) land 1-3 grilse per day with some misses/loses throughout the day. Skilled anglers combined with our knowledgeable guides make a formidable combination and frequently catch 2-4 grilse a day, again, with some misses/loses throughout the day. Exceptional days of 4-10 fish occur during the peaks in the grilse run.

 Trophy salmon (20 - 45 lbs.) are fairly uncommon during the very early grilse runs (June) and are best fished during late July through September when hooking a trophy "career" salmon can typically be expected. The current IGFA world record for atlantic salmon on 6lbs line class is 25lbs 5oz  and fish of this size and larger are seen and fished over on a daily basis virtually without exception!

Brook Trout generally are fished in different locations in the rivers than salmon and catches vary from a few 1-3 pounders per day to non-stop action with 2-6 pounders depending on hatches, location, and angling skill. Spin fishing for brook trout is also available on non-scheduled salmon rivers with fish ranging from1/2 to 6 pounds (average 1/2 to 3 pounds). The best runs are in late May through early June with major sea runs occurring late July through early September.

3) Where will I be fishing?
You will be staying near the scenic village of Steady Brook right on the banks of the world famous Humber River. However, we are mobile and can fish any of a dozen salmon and trout rivers available nearby. This allows us the advantage of moving to a better location due to water levels, temperature, salmon runs, fly hatches, etc. As every angler knows this can be a very significant advantage! However, 90% of our guests remain on the Humber River with fish caught minutes from the lodge. Visit the MAPS link at the bottom of the page for a detailed map of the Humber, Lomond and Serpentine Rivers.

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4) What are the facilities like?
Our comfortable lodge includes: spacious living and dining areas, large fire place, semi-private or private rooms and bath, great room, fly tying equipment, new canoes, boats, and outboard motors. Everything for a memorable and comfortable experience.

5) What gear should I bring?
You may wish to bring your own fishing gear, but we can also supply everything as part of the package! If you bring your own gear you should include:
- 8.5 to 10 foot graphite fly rod (7,8,9, or 10 weight)
- floating weight forward (recommended) or double tapered fly line with a minimum of 100yrds of 20lb Dacron backing.
- tapered or level leaders from 4 to 14 lbs test
- an assortment of single hook salmon and trout dry, wet, streamer, and nymph flies. Sizes 2 through 12. This is best tyed, borrowed as part of the package, or purchased on location.
- fly vest with typical accessories
- waders
- polarized glasses
- hat
- sun screen and chap stick
- fish tailing gloves
- day pack
- rain gear
- camera

6) Can you outline a typical trip?
We meet you at the airport in the small town of Deer Lake, Newfoundland, Canada for the 30 minute drive to the lodge.  This is followed by an evening of introductions, conversation, orientation, and traditional Newfoundland hospitality and food.  Specific meals can be requested and the cook is always eager to please.  Breakfast is served as early or late as you'd like.  A box lunch including almost anything you desire is pre-packed or you may return for lunch.  Typically, fishing starts shortly after sunrise. You simply walk down to the river and climb aboard the boat with your guide for the short ride to the first hot spot of the day.  For out-tripping we drive to a local river.  Remote drive in and fly in trips are available. Most rivers do not require a boat to fish.  Fishing is usually finished shortly after sunset when you are returned to the lodge for a freshen-up and the evening meal, or snack if you returned earlier for dinner.  Bring lots of film!  At the end of your stay with us we will drive you to the airport for your return home.  Any fish to return with you are wrapped, frozen, and packaged for air transport. A complimentary video of your trip is provided.

7) Are there any hidden costs associated with the trip?
No. Some anglers purchase local flies, wines, etc. Most tip the cook and guide if they make an impression. Some bring a few salmon and trout home with them which can cost extra if the airline requires an "extra baggage" fee. Framed flies are available as are other "gifts for that friend back home".

8) How do I combine my fishing with a Newfoundland hunting trip?
Simply reserve a spring bear hunt or fall big game hunt (moose, caribou, bear) and add the days of fishing you require. Ask for details or visit our web site at http://home.thezone.net/~canada. Note: Big game hunts start at $3275 USD

9) How do I book a trip?
Booking well in advance (6-18 months) is recommended as space and guides are limited. The cost is $3300USD plus 15% tax per angler and is all inclusive except alcohol. We require a $750 USD per angler deposit to confirm your trip with us. This is only refundable if a replacement can be found in time to fill your reservation. Rescheduling for a time more suitable for you is always offered. Deposits can be made to:
Eureka Outdoors Inc
PO Box 1141
Corner Brook, Newfoundland
A2H-6T2
Canada

Still want more info?
Visit our main salmon fishing in Newfoundland website at http://eurekaoutdoors.nf.ca for detailed maps, flies, photos, and much more!

See you on the river;
Bill Bryden
Phone +1-709-785-1992 overseas
 
 

Got another question we missed; let us know?
EMAIL eureka@nf.sympatico.ca



 
 
 
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