World Class Atlantic Salmon Fishing on the Restigouche River Quebec, Canada

Red Pine Mountain Lodge is situated approximately 30 miles upstream from Campbellton, New Brunswick, on one of the world's most renowned big salmon rivers, the Restigouche. For over 150 years, this incomparable river has drawn anglers from around the globe in quest of some of the world's largest and strongest Atlantic salmon. Originating in the mountains of western New Brunswick, the Restigouche (also spelled Ristigouche) River flows in a north-easterly direction to the Bay of Chaleur, dividing the provinces of Quebec and New Brunswick in its final 40 miles. Bright salmon begin entering the river in mid-to-late-May. From this time through the month of June, the average fish taken is 18 pounds with better than 10% over 30 pounds. These are magnificently conditioned and incredibly strong fish. It is quality fishing at its very best.  Joining the large multi-sea-winter salmon, the grilse run usually begins the last week of June and is in full swing by the second week of July. The catch rate can increase to one fish per rod day or better with the grilse-to-salmon ratio averaging 1-1 the first 2 weeks of July, gradually increasing to 3-1 by month's end. The mid-July run of smaller, 10 - 20 pound salmon seems to have strengthened in recent years, greatly enhancing the July fishing. By August, most of the catch is grilse but large fish show up in the catch, particularly after a rise of water. Note: The season has recently been extended into the month of September and preliminary reports indicate the presence of a fall run.  Dear Angler Adventures, I thought you would like to see one of the beautiful fish caught during our trip to Red Pine . My first class guide Gilles is holding a 36# silver bullet taken on Father's Day ... a 36 minute battle on a 11'2" 7-8 weight Loop Rod with 15# Maxima leader. This hen was even prettier swimming off full steam ahead on release . Thanks for a wonderful lodge and its crew , great food , the best company (The Streams Of Dreams Gang) and permanent memories .  Sincerely,  Dr. Richard M. Foster

The name Restigouche, also spelled Ristigouche, is thought to be derived from the Mi'kmaq Indian word "Listuguj", meaning "Five Fingers", reference to the 5 major tributaries, the Little Main, the Kedgewick, the Patapedia, the Upsalquitch and the Matapedia.

A provincial moratorium in effect since 1987 on the taking of multi-sea-winter fish has dramatically increased the returns of large repeat spawners. In 1990, the first 40-pound fish in 25 years was recorded at Red Pine. Nearly every year since, the camp has logged one or more bright, fresh-run fish near or over the magical 40-pound mark (the largest 47 pounds), as well as many in the high 30s.  Fishing at Red Pine is done in the traditional Gaspe manner from 26-foot Cedarwood canoes, each with a guide and two anglers. Anglers either alternate "drops" in the canoe or one or both anglers may choose to wade fish. Five boats rotate through the camp's major beats, which span five miles of private water. Productive pools on these beats include:  Gilmore Island, Looking Glass, Irving's Rock, Sideboard, Two Brooks, Home Pool, Diamond, Little Diamond, The Pot, Upper & Lower Grindstone.  (see Satellite Map of the Pools) Each of these pools is capable of producing 30 - 40 + pounders and provide more water than an angler can thoroughly cover in a day. The daily fishing periods are from 8:00 am to 12:00 noon and from 5:30 to 9:30 pm. Anglers, salmon and pools are rested for a few hours in the afternoon.

The lodge is first class in every sense, preserving the traditional ambiance and warm hospitality Red Pine guests have come to enjoy for almost 80 years.  The classic 1920s cedar and pine lodge is situated in the idyllic wilderness of the spectacular Restigouche Valley, flanked by lush green mountains and the red pines for which the camp is named. Perched on a high bank overlooking the river, the main lodge is fronted by a full length screened verandah, and houses a communal great room/dining room area with matching fieldstone fireplaces at either end.

View from the top of "Diamond" of lower home pool and the lodge.

Sumptuous meals are prepared by our professional kitchen staff. Bread and tasty desserts are baked daily. Breakfast is served from 7:15 am. The main meal of the day is at 1:00 pm. A light snack is provided before the evening fishing and a light buffet is available afterwards. The guest rooms spread in both directions, adjacent to the main building, and are interconnected by a covered wooden porch. The rooms are pleasant and comfortable, each with two twin beds, dressing room, private bath with shower, full electric service and baseboard heating. Maid service is provided daily. The grounds and surrounding buildings are impeccably maintained. Additional camp structures include two ice houses, a boat house, and the guides' camp. Just behind the smokehouse, a well groomed path leading to a picturesque waterfall on Red Pine Brook makes for a popular after-lunch walk.

Deposit/Cancellation Policy A $ 2000 (US) per rod space deposit is required to secure a reservation. Deposits are non-refundable unless your space can be filled by another angler. Final payment is due April 15th and is, also non-refundable unless the space is filled. Red Pine extends priority booking courtesy to repeat guests. However, reservations not confirmed by deposit before November 15th are offered on a first come basis. Please call us to discuss availability. If we cannot accommodate your preferred dates, we will contact you after December 10th should spaces become available during your preferred time period. The Restigouche is almost entirely privately controlled. Red Pine represents the last access for US citizens to quality water on this remarkable river. If you would like to make a reservation at Red Pine or have any questions, please call. We look forward to hearing from you.

"Home Pool at Red Pine" watercolor by John Swan

For Reservations or more information, contact

Doug Schlink

800-628-1447 - 860-434-9624

Fax 860-434-8605

E-Mail:doug@angleradventures.com

PO Box 872, Old Lyme, CT 06371

web site: AnglerAdventures.com

.

We invite you to visit the web site of The Atlantic Salmon Federation by clicking on the ASF icon to the left, and urge you to support their efforts in the conservation of wild Atlantic salmon.

For technical questions or comments, please contact the Webmaster. For up to date information join our mailing list by clicking here. . © Copyright 2007 - Angler Adventures