Arriving on the Gaspé Peninsula in Quebec, we quickly realized that the conditions were challenging—low water, warm days with clear blue skies, and a limited number of fish entering the river. The latter issue was worsened by net fishing at the river mouth, a narrow passage into the sea. A disappointing reminder of how greed and short-sighted practices still threaten wild salmon populations. Yes, the fight to preserve wild salmon is a global one—and it must be fought harder, on many fronts, all at once.  

Despite the tough conditions, our goal remained: to land one of the river’s legendary giants. Knowing the circumstances, we adopted a late-summer strategy even though it was still early June. Then, as if nature heard our prayers, it rained properly during our first night. The water level rose slightly, temperatures dropped, and two happy Guideline anglers found new energy to fish even harder.

Thanks to solid support from our Canadian Guideline partners at Rhéal Pitre Sports, and a bit of luck in the lottery system, we secured fishing licenses for three days.

Fishing this iconic river is a unique experience. The pools are stunning, the guides skilled and easygoing. But what stands out most is the sheer wildness of the surroundings. It feels like few people have ever stood where you’re standing. Dense, untamed forest lines the banks. Birdsong you’ve never heard before echoes through the trees. You fish within national parks, far from civilization—no farms, houses, or road noise. Just silence and wilderness. It’s disorienting at first but becomes a peaceful reset for the mind and soul.

Trying new techniques—like dry fly and riffling hitch—outside our usual Scandinavian style added extra excitement. All in all, it was an unforgettable experience, and we can’t wait to return.