Newfoundland Rediscovered

F


or many of us, the Province of Newfoundland in Canada reminds us of salt water fishing, depleted cod stocks and perhaps Atlantic Salmon fishing. While it is true that much of the world's fish table fare has come from the Grand Banks, where fishing trawlers ply their way through the stormy Atlantic Ocean just off the coast of Newfoundland, many are discovering that this Island offers tremendous opportunities for the fly fisher.

If you are thinking about a holiday this year that includes wonderful people, sites of historical value, very beautiful scenery, and of course amazing fishing, consider Newfoundland!

Before you arrive, you will want to consider a book by Len Rich entitled 'Newfoundland Salmon Flies...And How To Tie Them'. Over 50 dry and wet fly patterns suitable for Salmon as well as other species are included in this book along with black and white photographs. Many of the flies originated in Newfoundland, and Len has done a great job of organizing the information as well as providing photographs of angling scenes in the Province. Even if you don't fish in Newfoundland, this book will be a welcome addition to any fly angler's library. Len may be reached at awesome@telework.nf.ca.

Where I live, catching a 14" speckled trout is really something! Unless I was to drive several hours north to a remote lake where I could possibly find brookies in the 2+ pound range, I am satisfied if a few foot longs take my fly on the small streams near my home. On Awesome Lake in Newfoundland, 5 to 6 pound brook trout are common, and apparently some have claimed to have seen a trout that could give the world record a run for its money! Coincidently, Len Rich is the proprieter of Awesome Lake Lodge. You will certainly want to take a look around this site and discover why this lake is so special.

If you want to hone your skills a bit more, you may also want to consider the Newfoundland Fly Fishing School. A division of the Atlantic Fly Fishing School, the famed Gander River could be your classroom. Or, you could skip the lessons and go directly to the Gander River Outfitters for lodging and guided fishing. Be forewarned though that the server this site is on can be slow to respond.

Another river of choice is the Humber River, also located in the west part of Newfoundland. With runs numbering into the thirty thousands of salmon, Upper Humber Tours can provide you with guided trips including boat fishing and arrange tours of the area for your non-fishing friends accompanying you. As well, even the fly fisher maybe interested in visiting Lanse Aux Meadows, the site of the first Viking settlement in North America.

Dhoon's Lodge located on Harry's River also offers guided angling for Salmon. The Owl's Nest Lodge may also be a strong contender for my my holiday dollar with a wide choice of species available to fish for, and some beautiful scenery on the Grey River.

The Newfoundland Provincial Government's Ministry of Tourism also provides information on fishing as well as hunting in the Province.