When snow blankets the landscape in winter, Rimouski offers a multitude of adventures for those willing to brave the cold. One of the most unusual activities available is ice fishing, which involves trekking across Quebec’s frozen lakes and rivers.
When practicing this one-of-a-kind activity, patience, luck and a cool head are the keys to success.
In this article, Vieux Loup de Mer invites you to discover the joys of ice fishing and the best spots for it in Rimouski and the surrounding area.
First Nations and Inuit in the region have been ice fishing for centuries, and French settlers adopted the practice when they came to Quebec.
Ice fishing on the region’s lakes and rivers requires ice that is thick enough to walk on (around 20 to 30 cm) and particular preparation. You’ll need to make a hole in the ice using an auger or a sharpened metal bar. Once the hole is ready, the ice fishing can begin!
To catch fish under the ice, lower a fishing line with one or two hooks through the hole. Select your bait according to the type of fish you want to catch, and shake your fishing rod gently to attract them.
The concept is fairly simple, but it takes a bit of experience to get the technique down. Apart from that, you’ll need luck and plenty of patience, despite the cold! You’ll probably also need snowshoes to get to the frozen lake!
Tip from Vieux Loup de Mer: Did you know that there are two different types of ice? There is clear blue ice, which is very strong, and opaque white ice, which is much more fragile 😊
Contrary to what you might think, there are many fish living under the ice in winter. The most common species found under the ice in Rimouski is rainbow smelt. Other species such as Atlantic tomcod and rockfish can be found in the St. Lawrence River.
There are great spots for ice fishing on the Rimouski river and the pack ice surrounding the Îles du Bic. A little further afield, places such as Lac Chic-Chocs, Témiscouata and Rivière-du-Loup are all well-known for their ice fishing.
The Vieux Loup de Mer’s tip: Ice fishing is an activity that is part of Quebec folklore. To continue the folklore at the end of winter, think of visiting the sugar shacks near Rimouski! 😉
There are many winter activities available for tourists who visit Rimouski, Quebec during the cold season. For those who are less athletically-inclined, ice fishing is a great way to relax and discover a local practice that dates back hundreds of years.
For a truly authentic local experience, why not book your stay at one of our chalets in Rimouski? Our property boasts a great selection of cozy accommodations that are perfectly suited for visitors to the region.Contact us today! Our team will be happy to welcome you this winter and provide our best tips for visiting Rimouski and the surrounding area 😉
