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By Mark Anthony Krupa
The Gaspé is renowned for its world-class fly fishing for monster salmon in clear, majestic rapids. The public waters of the Matane continue to attract numerous rods each season. However rivers such as the Matapédia, Grand- Cascapédia, Saint Jean, St- Anne, and Bonaventure with then prestigious history are often considered the most prized water in the lottery draws. Although there are still several private outfitters operating in the Gaspé, most are solidly booked it in prime tune. However, there is one well located and reasonably priced outfitter that offers guests access to a versatile mix of private and public pools - Camp Brűlé.
Since 1879 and the birth of the Petite Cascapédia club, the McWhirter family has been involved in salmon conservation. Passing on the legacy of guiding anglers from generation to generation, Ron McWhirter and son Kevin have developed Camp Brűlé into a luxurious yet rustic four-star accommodation. Situated on she bank of the Petite Cascapédia, 14 kilometres from she sea, Camp Brűlé guests are given access to some of the first pools so hold fresh-run salmon. The river's crystal-clear emerald green water is a paradise for those who enjoy stalking and sight-casting to holding fish. Of the 11 Camp Brule pools that span 6 km of water, four are considered holding pools and as least two are used for spawning. In addition so offering access to private water on the Bonaventure and Grand-Cascapédia rivers, the lodge is also open to package deals, including making arrangements on public ZEC water. The Petite-Cascapédia is a narrow, intimate river that should not be under-estimated for its large salmon; only 35% of the run are grilse. Since 1905, when the river record 45 pounder was landed, many 30-40 pounders have been taken and 50 pounders are occasionally seen. In addition, the upper branches of the Petite-Cascapédia offer world-class sea-run brook trout angling and fish from 5 - 10 pounds are not so uncommon.
The camp can cater to conference groups (up to 18 guests), but angling is limited to 4 rods per day on the private Petite-Cascapédia water and 2-4 rods on the Grand Cascapédia plus Bonaventure. Anglers can float the river by canoe, but most casting is done from shore.
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