City of Moncton, New Brunswick

What's biting

• Atlantic Salmon

  Where: Petitcodiac River main stem and pools; lower Shediac River. Tidal sections and freshwater runs.

  Fall run peaks mid-September through October. Fish holding in deep pools and behind current breaks; use small spoons (1/4 oz), dark flies, or live smelt in lower river sections. Early morning and dusk most productive.

  Caution: Check current NB regulations for open season, catch limits, and mandatory tag requirements before fishing.

• Brook Trout

  Where: Tributaries and headwaters of Petitcodiac system (Memramcook, Pollet, Anagance rivers); small streams in upland areas.

  Water temps now ideal (14–16°C). Fish small dry flies (Adams, Elk Hair Caddis) or nymphs in riffles and pocket water; spinners work in faster runs. Catch-and-release encouraged on many streams.

  Caution: Verify local stream access and any special regulations for your chosen tributary.

• Striped Bass

  Where: Shediac River estuary and lower Petitcodiac tidal zone; salt marshes and channel edges.

  Fall migration underway; fish 0.5–2 m (2–6 ft) deep around structure. Live shiners, small mackerel, or soft plastics (4–5 inch) on light jigs. Slack tide and dawn/dusk windows best.

  Caution: Consult NB regulations for size and catch limits; striped bass are managed under specific conservation rules.

• American Shad

  Where: Lower Petitcodiac and Shediac rivers; tidal pools and current seams.

  Fall run active; use small shad darts (1/8–1/4 oz), spoons, or shad-pattern flies in 1–3 m (3–10 ft) of water. Fish moving upriver in early morning.

  Caution: Check NB regulations for open season dates and any harvest restrictions.

• White Perch

  Where: Brackish sections of Petitcodiac and Shediac; tidal creeks and backwater pools.

  Schooling heavily now; use small jigs, spinners, or live minnows in 1–2 m (3–6 ft) water. Productive in dawn and dusk hours; often found in dense groups.

  Caution: Generally abundant with liberal limits, but confirm current regulations.