New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, PEI and Newfoundland and Labrador each licence separately, and Atlantic salmon are federally managed with tag systems and fly-only rules. The Miramichi, Restigouche, Margaree and the rivers of Newfoundland are the destinations; striped bass in the Miramichi estuary is a modern bonus fishery.
Key waters and what to tie
| Water | Species | Rigs that work |
|---|---|---|
| Miramichi & Restigouche (NB) | Atlantic salmon, striped bass, brook trout | Fly rigs (wet/dry); striped bass on jigs and swimbaits |
| Margaree (NS) | Atlantic salmon, sea-run trout | Fly only |
| Newfoundland rivers (Humber, Exploits, Gander) | Atlantic salmon, brook trout | Fly only; dry-dropper for trout |
| Labrador (Eagle, Minipi) | Trophy brook trout, salmon, lake trout, pike | Dry-dropper rig, wire leader spoon |
| PEI streams and ponds | Brook trout, rainbow trout | Split-shot rig, fixed bobber rig |
| NS lakes | Smallmouth, chain pickerel, white perch, brook trout | Wacky rig, Ned rig, split-shot rig |
Seasons
Trout from April 15 in most of the region; salmon June–September (river-specific); striped bass spring and fall in NB.
Bait rules
Bait allowed on many trout waters but banned on salmon rivers (fly only). Live fish as bait is prohibited in Newfoundland and restricted elsewhere.
Seasons, zones and limits change yearly. Always confirm with the current provincial regulations summary before fishing.