Fishing in Newfoundland and Labrador: Top Species and Best Spots

Newfoundland and Labrador is Canada's easternmost province, a land of rugged coastlines, boreal forests, and countless rivers and lakes. The province offers world-class Atlantic salmon fishing, exceptional sea-run brook trout, and remote wilderness fishing in Labrador that rivals anything on the continent. Newfoundland's freshwater fishing is supplemented by excellent saltwater opportunities for cod, halibut, and tuna.

1. Humber River (Atlantic Salmon & Brook Trout)

Best time: June through August

The Humber River, flowing through western Newfoundland into the Bay of Islands, is one of the province's premier Atlantic salmon rivers. The river is known for its runs of large, powerful salmon, with fish in the 8-15 pound range common. The Humber also offers excellent brook trout fishing in its upper reaches and tributaries. The river is easily accessible from the town of Deer Lake and has several outfitters and guides. Fly fishing with classic salmon flies and grub patterns is the standard technique.

2. Gander River (Atlantic Salmon & Brook Trout)

Best time: June through August

The Gander River, in central Newfoundland, offers exceptional Atlantic salmon fishing in a beautiful wilderness setting. The river's clear, cold water and classic pools provide ideal habitat for salmon in the 6-12 pound range. The Gander is known for its consistent salmon runs and is a favourite among fly anglers. The river also holds excellent brook trout populations. The Gander River is accessible from the Trans-Canada Highway and has several outfitters operating on its waters.

3. Exploits River (Atlantic Salmon & Brook Trout)

Best time: June through August

The Exploits River, the largest river on Newfoundland, offers excellent salmon fishing throughout its length. The river flows through Grand Falls-Windsor and into the Bay of Exploits, offering both guided and DIY fishing opportunities. The Exploits is known for its runs of bright Atlantic salmon, with fish in the 6-12 pound range. The river's size can be intimidating, but its classic pools and runs hold fish throughout the season. Brook trout fishing is excellent in the river's tributaries.

4. Churchill River, Labrador (Brook Trout, Northern Pike & Lake Trout)

Best time: July through August

The Churchill River in Labrador is one of the largest and most productive river systems in Canada. The river and its vast watershed offer exceptional fishing for brook trout, northern pike, and lake trout. Brook trout in the Churchill system can reach trophy sizes, with fish exceeding 5 pounds. Northern pike are abundant and can reach 20+ pounds. Lake trout are found in the deeper lakes and basins. The region is fly-in only and accessed through lodges and outfitters operating out of Happy Valley-Goose Bay.

5. Eagle River, Labrador (Atlantic Salmon)

Best time: July through August

The Eagle River in Labrador is one of the most productive Atlantic salmon rivers in North America. The river's remote location and pristine habitat produce exceptional salmon runs, with fish in the 8-15 pound range common and trophies over 25 pounds. The Eagle River is strictly catch-and-release and is managed through a limited number of licensed lodges. The fishing season is short — typically July and August — but the quality is world-class. This is a true bucket-list destination for serious salmon anglers.

6. Terra Nova River (Atlantic Salmon & Brook Trout)

Best time: June through August

The Terra Nova River, in eastern Newfoundland, offers excellent salmon and brook trout fishing within Terra Nova National Park. The river is known for its consistent salmon runs and beautiful scenery. The park setting means the river is well-managed and protected. Salmon in the 6-10 pound range are common. Brook trout are abundant in the river's tributaries and provide excellent fishing on light tackle. The park offers camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities in addition to fishing.

7. Grand Codroy River (Atlantic Salmon)

Best time: June through August

The Grand Codroy River, on Newfoundland's west coast, offers excellent Atlantic salmon fishing in a stunning coastal setting. The river's clear, cold water and classic pools hold good runs of salmon in the 6-12 pound range. The Grand Codroy is known for its scenic beauty — the river flows through a broad valley flanked by the Long Range Mountains. The river has several outfitters and guides operating on its waters. The lower river is tidal and offers a unique salmon fishing experience.

8. Torrent River (Atlantic Salmon)

Best time: July through August

The Torrent River, near St. Anthony on Newfoundland's Great Northern Peninsula, offers excellent Atlantic salmon fishing in a remote northern setting. The river is known for its runs of large salmon, with fish in the 8-15 pound range. The Torrent is a relatively small river, making it ideal for wading and close-quarters fly fishing. The nearby remains of the Viking settlement at L'Anse aux Meadows make this a unique destination combining fishing with history.

9. Avalon Peninsula (Brook Trout)

Best time: May through August

The Avalon Peninsula, home to St. John's, offers excellent brook trout fishing in hundreds of small ponds and streams. The region's numerous water bodies hold healthy brook trout populations that provide easy access for anglers based in the capital. Popular locations include the Waterford River, Paddy's Pond, and the many ponds in the Butter Pot area. The Avalon's brook trout typically run 8-14 inches, with larger fish in the less-pressured waters. This is a great option for anglers with limited time.

10. Labrador Coast (Arctic Char & Brook Trout)

Best time: July through August

The Labrador coast offers some of the most remote and pristine fishing in North America. The countless rivers flowing into the Atlantic Ocean and Ungava Bay hold exceptional populations of Arctic char and brook trout. Arctic char in the region average 3-8 pounds, with larger fish possible. The brook trout fishing is world-class, with sea-run fish reaching impressive sizes. Access is by float plane or boat, with lodges operating on several river systems. This is true wilderness fishing at its most remote.

Fishing Tips for Newfoundland and Labrador

• Get a licence — All anglers 18+ need a Newfoundland and Labrador fishing licence. Buy online at gov.nl.ca/fishing. A separate salmon licence is required.
• Plan for Labrador — Labrador's fishing season is short (July-August) and access is limited. Fly-in lodges book early and are expensive. Plan and budget accordingly.
• Watch the weather — Newfoundland weather is famously unpredictable. Fog, rain, and wind can move in quickly. Always carry rain gear and extra layers, even in summer.
• Try sea-run brook trout — Newfoundland's sea-run brook trout (called "sea trout" locally) are a unique and exciting fishery. These fish are larger and more powerful than their landlocked cousins.
• Respect the salmon — Atlantic salmon populations in Newfoundland and Labrador face significant pressures. Practise careful catch-and-release, use barbless hooks, and keep fish in the water.

Published July 2026 by the CatchTales team.