Saguenay, Quebec

What's biting

• Lake Trout (Touladi)

  Where: Deep basins of Lac Saguenay and tributary lakes; rocky drop-offs and thermocline edges.

  Early fall cooling pushes fish to mid-depth (15–25 m / 50–80 ft). Jigging with small spoons or live shiners near structure is most effective; troll slowly along depth contours at dawn and dusk.

  Caution: Confirm current size and possession limits with MELCCFP before fishing.

• Brook Trout (Omble de fontaine)

  Where: Cold tributary streams and spring-fed ponds; undercut banks and pool tails.

  Peak feeding as water cools to 14–16°C (57–61°F). Use small dry flies, wet flies, or spinners; fish early morning or after rain when water levels rise slightly.

  Caution: Many tributaries have catch-and-release or slot-limit regulations; check MELCCFP zone rules for your specific stream.

• Walleye (Doré jaune)

  Where: Shallow bays and rocky reefs of Lac Saguenay and larger lakes; transition zones between deep and shallow water.

  Dusk and night fishing is most productive as water cools. Cast or jig with small minnows, soft plastics, or live bait near rocky structure in 2–4 m (6–13 ft) of water.

  Caution: Verify current season status and daily limits with MELCCFP; walleye seasons vary by zone.

• Smallmouth Bass

  Where: Rocky shorelines, weed edges, and shallow reefs in lakes and wider sections of the Saguenay River.

  Still active in early fall; target structure with crankbaits or soft plastics in 1–3 m (3–10 ft). Overcast days and low-light periods are best.

  Caution: Confirm season closure dates and size restrictions with MELCCFP before targeting.

• Saguenay River Salmon (Atlantic Salmon)

  Where: Lower Saguenay River pools and holding areas; check public access points and designated fishing zones.

  Fall run underway; fish respond to small spoons, dry flies, and wet flies in current breaks. Early morning and evening are most productive.

  Caution: Atlantic salmon has strict regulations including mandatory catch-and-release in many zones and specific season windows—consult MELCCFP immediately for current rules and access.