Where to fish brook trout in Quebec and Ontario

Brook trout (also called speckled trout) is the most popular species to fish in Quebec and Ontario, and for good reason. It is relatively easy to catch and absolutely delicious. However, even though it can be found in most water bodies, some spots will provide you with a better chance of coming back with a catch. Here is a list of our favourite brook trout fishing destinations in Quebec and Ontario.

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Best destinations for brook trout fishing in Quebec

Zec Lavigne – Lanaudière

From small lakes filled to the brim with fish to larger, wild lakes, Zec Lavigne has it all. Located east of the Mont-Tremblant National Park, it is a paradise for brook trout fishing enthusiasts. Whether you prefer spinning, trolling or wading, whether you’re an expert fly fisher or a complete beginner, this Lanaudière destination should not be missed. It provides opportunities for many types of fishing, and amenities for all your needs (including a campground, some cabins, boat rental and more). With a territory that includes over 150 lakes, there is bound to be one that’s right for you!

Zec Lac-au-Sable – Charlevoix

With its rugged terrain and altitudes ranging from 150 m to almost 1000 m (typical of the Charlevoix region), the Zec Lac-au-Sable offers exceptional views over the Quebec landscapes. The Zec’s territory includes around a hundred lakes nested in the valleys, some of which are quite large. A network of rivers runs through the area and provides numerous opportunities for brook trout fishing. And there’s more good news: the Zec is easily accessible. It is only a few kilometres away from La Malbaie and its network of trails is well maintained, making it an easy–to–access area even without an off-road vehicle.

Zec des Martres – Charlevoix

Named after the carnivorous mammal that inhabits its territory, the Zec des Martres is also an ideal brook trout fishing spot. Its territory includes 219 lakes, 150 of which are suitable for fishing (a sign near each of the lakes indicates which type of fishing is allowed – fly fishing, bait casting, etc.). There are also 10 rivers where sport fishing is permitted. If you are looking to stay for a few days, it is possible to rent a cabin or a campsite and enjoy a spot of hiking for a more diverse experience.

Réserve faunique des Laurentides

The Réserve faunique des Laurentides stretches between the regions of Québec and Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean with an immense 7,861 km2 territory. There are over 2,000 lakes and nine rivers, spread over 25 sectors with various accommodation types (ready-to-camp, cabins, yurts, camping). Fish, and brook trout in particular, are native to the area, a great source of pride for the reserve. However, it is worth noting that some bodies of water have more restrictive limits to preserve fishing quality or the length of the season. The use of electric or gas motors is permitted throughout the area.

Rivière Sainte-Marguerite – Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean

Flowing North of the majestic Fjord du Saguenay, the Rivière Sainte-Marguerite and its fishing zones stretch over more than 130 km. The river’s three branches originate from the Monts Valin sector, known as the world’s main brook trout reservoir. In fact, it is possible to catch a particular anadromous species here, commonly known as the sea trout. Did you know that specimens weighing between 3 lb. to 5 lb. (and even bigger) are regularly caught here? Don’t wait any longer, start planning your stay at Sainte-Marguerite River now.

Best destinations for brook trout fishing in Ontario

Lake Superior – Ontario

Brook trout enjoys cold waters with high oxygen concentration levels. As such, large quantities of fish can be found in the Lake Superior sector, in Northwestern Ontario. It is the largest freshwater lake in the world, and the northernmost of all the Great Lakes. To catch speckled trout, also called coaster brook trout, cast your lures towards the rocky shores of Thunder Bay, south of the Lake Superior Provincial Park’s waters. Another zone that should not be missed is the one located at the mouth of the Nipigon River, where the largest specimen of its kind (a giant 6.6 kg fish) was caught in 1915.

Algonquin Provincial Park – Ontario

Algonquin Provincial Park is known to be one of the best spots for brook trout fishing in Ontario, maybe even Canada. A high concentration of fish from this native species can be found in more than 230 lakes. This can be explained by the fact that some bodies of water are quite remote and located in the park’s backcountry. As such, they are not visited by many anglers. The parks’ catch limits are also relatively strict, allowing a maximum of five fish per person. The best times to try and catch brook trout are early spring and early autumn, two particularly magical seasons in the park, which offers views typical of the Canadian landscape.