Cascapédia River
The Cascapédia River, also known as the Grande Cascapédia to distinguish it from the Petite Cascapédia further east, rises in the heart of the Chics-Chocs mountains and flows through central Gaspésie before emptying into the Baie-des-Chaleurs. Colossal, flowing through landscapes that have inspired many painters, it covers 139 kilometers at a rate of 50 cubic meters per second, its clear waters turning brownish when high. For over a century and a half, it has enjoyed a worldwide reputation for the size of its salmon, averaging 9 kilograms, the record being 24 kilograms, caught in 1886.
This rich history of a legendary waterway can be found at the Musée de la rivière Cascapédia in Cascapédia-Saint-Jules. While the Société Cascapédia, which has wildlife reserve status, has managed the river since 1982, the Micmac community has the exclusive right to offer sport fishing packages on the first 18 kilometers of river, from the mouth. In addition, fishing management alternates with the various private clubs, to maintain the significant economic spin-offs. This partnership has proven to be a viable model for both public and private management.
