Prince Edward Island is famous for a lot of things – delicious mussels, red sandy beaches, hiking trails, and amazing fisheries. With its combination of top-quality cuisine, outdoor adventures, and nature, this small province has become one of Canada’s most visited destinations. If you’re planning on fishing in Prince Edward Island, you’re in for a real treat!

Top Target Species

Prince Edward Island is well-known for its Bluefin Tuna fishing. However, any local will tell you that this area has a lot more to offer. The island contains 1,100 miles of coastline, with many bays and estuaries, as well as rivers and streams. It’s an ideal location for both saltwater and freshwater angling.

Saltwater

When it comes to big game Tuna fishing, there’s no other place in the world like North Lake Harbor. North Lake is a bay situated on the easternmost tip of the island, and is often referred to as the “Tuna Capital of the World.” With record catches over 1,000 pounds, this is a great place to target big Bluefin Tuna.

Cod is also a very popular target species in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Their season is relatively short and varies year to year, but they’re usually available from mid-summer to early autumn. If you want to go after Cod during the offseason, you’ll have to hop on a Prince Edward Island fishing charter to do so.

Atlantic Mackerel is very abundant in these waters and is extremely challenging on a fly and spinning rod. It’s also a very popular target species as there is no limit to how many legally-sized fish you can keep in a day.

Freshwater

Brook Trout is by far the most popular freshwater fish to target on Prince Edward Island. They can be found in most rivers and streams on the island and can range anywhere between three to six pounds.

White Perch can also be found in the island’s warmer waters. Over recent decades, this species has increased, moving into artificially protected areas and impoundments.

Atlantic Salmon is also a possible target, but has dwindled over the last few decades. However, recent conservation efforts have proven successful. Today, you can catch Salmon in five main rivers: Morell, Valleyfield, West, Naufrage, and Trout Rivers. Please note, Salmon is strictly catch-and-release and limited to fly fishing only.

Several other species have also been introduced to the region, such as Rainbow Trout. Given the island’s ideal conditions, it’s no wonder that the Trout population has flourished. These fish are  incredible fighters, challenging even the most experienced anglers with dazzling leaps out of the water.

Need to Know

Most charters and guides provide fishing licenses for everyone on board. Before you head out, be sure to pack extra layers of clothing, some food and drinks, and Dramamine if you think you might get seasick.

You’re now one step closer to exploring one of Canada’s top fisheries, so check out some of the local charters in the area and start planning your adventure today!