Nouvelle River
The Nouvelle River flows from the Chic-Choc Mountains for 76 kilometers down to the west end of the Baie des Chaleurs in the town of Nouvelle.
Despite the long history of angling on this river, salmon populations were significantly hurt by log driving in the late 1960s. As a result, with the help of the salmon economic development plan, the community banded together in order to restore the Nouvelle River. Thanks to major fish stocking and conservation efforts, the fishery was able to recover. In 1997, the river was officially reopened to salmon fishing by the Société de Restauration et de Gestion de la Nouvelle.
The Mi’kmaq have given this river the name "Tlapatantjitjg", literally meaning "like potatoes", in reference to the large rocks that make up the riverbed. There are 7 sectors in total on the Nouvelle: 6 public access sectors (39 pools) and 1 limited access sector (18 pools), for a total of 57 pools. Unlike most other salmon rivers, fishing tends to improve as the season progresses, presumably because the water remains so cold and oxygenated at all times. Unless there is a sudden rise in water levels, the river remains exceptionally clear.
The Nouvelle is known as one of the best rivers for trout fishing in the Gaspé Peninsula, and its sea-run population continues to grow. The largest trout ever caught here was reported to weigh more than 11 pounds. You will love the Nouvelle River if you enjoy having plenty of space for yourself to fish in a peaceful and pressure-free environment, all the while being surrounded by breathtaking scenery and majestic mountains.