Spey on the Gaspé with Simon Gawesworth

Imagine waking up to the soothing sounds of rushing water, mist rising off the river and the first light of dawn illuminating the river valley. You are not just here to fish; you are here to learn from one of the world's leading instructors and anglers while immersing yourself in the history of Atlantic Salmon fishing. Located in Québec's Gaspé Peninsula, the Pavilion combines luxury, world-class fishing, and natural beauty. Whether you are a seasoned angler or new to Spey casting, these rivers promise a thrilling adventure filled with challenges and rewards.

Fishing the St-Jean
The St. Jean has long attracted anglers from around the world, drawn to its pristine waters and the promise of large, powerful salmon. With exclusive access to carefully managed beats, each angler is ensured a unique and personal experience. The water here is as clear as glass, allowing you to spot fish moving through their natural environment. The water clarity, combined with the size of the salmon, creates a level of excitement that is hard to match anywhere else.

Fishing the St-Jean involves a blend of techniques tailored to the conditions of the day. Anglers can look forward to using both Spey and single-hand casting, with traditional wet flies being a mainstay. Do not be surprised if you find yourself switching up tactics, from casting upstream and dead-drifting dry flies to waking or stripping a fly to provoke a strike. All fishing is done with floating lines and leaders tapered to 8 or 10-pound monofilament or 15 to 10-pound fluorocarbon for optimal presentation.

Each day you will depart with your guide to explore a selection of quality holding pools. These guides know the waters intimately, reading the currents and adjusting tactics based on conditions. They provide not just instruction but insight, making each day on the water a learning experience

Fish with Simon - Join Simon Gawesworth on the Gaspé Peninsula
Learning from Simon Gawesworth is a rare opportunity that will elevate your fly-fishing skills to new heights. As a world-renowned casting instructor, Simon will spend two days leading the instruction, blending “classroom” style presentations with on-the-water practice. His expertise covers everything from the basics of equipment setup to the finer points of fly presentation. Whether you are new to Spey casting or a seasoned pro, Simon’s approach will help you refine your technique and deepen your understanding of Atlantic salmon fishing.

This experience isn’t just about learning—it’s about mastery. The small instructor-to-student ratio ensures personalized attention, with Simon and the professional guides providing hands-on guidance throughout the trip. Simon will bring the latest Sage fly rods and RIO fly lines, offering guests a chance to try the newest equipment. The first two days are focused on learning, while the remaining four days are dedicated to guided fishing, giving you ample time to apply what you’ve learned in real fishing scenarios.

All featured photography by © Mathieu Dupuis

St-Jean Lodge & Pavilion - Accommodations & Meals

After a day on the water, unwind in the luxurious comfort of the St-Jean Lodge. Nestled on the banks of the river, the lodge offers a blend of rustic charm and modern amenities. With a history dating back to the 1950s, it has hosted countless anglers who have come to test their skills on these famous waters.

Guests can choose between staying in the main lodge or one of the four two-bedroom rustic cabins. The lodge features a dining room, a cozy lounge with a fireplace, and four bedrooms with private bathrooms. For those who prefer a more rustic experience, the cabins provide a sense of seclusion while still offering shared bathroom facilities. All accommodations include essentials like bedding, towels, and toiletries.

Indulge in gourmet meals crafted with a regional flair, designed to bring out the finest flavors of local produce and ingredients. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared to showcase the distinctive culinary traditions of the area, promising an intimate dining experience that delights the senses. The menu changes daily to reflect the freshest seasonal offerings, ensuring every meal is a unique culinary journey.

For wine enthusiasts, their carefully curated selection of fine wines pairs perfectly with each course, while local craft beers and specialty cocktails are also available to complement your meal. Guests are always welcome to bring their own favorite beverages to enhance their dining experience.

We understand that every guest has unique dietary needs and preferences. The lodge gladly accommodates vegetarian, vegan, and other special diets, and can cater to allergies and intolerances upon request. Whatever your culinary preferences, the chef will tailor the menu to suit your tastes, ensuring that each meal is as enjoyable as it is memorable.

Whether you’re a seasoned Spey angler or new to the sport, this journey to Québec's Gaspé Peninsula is sure to be an exciting and educational adventure. From the masterful instruction of Simon Gawesworth to the thrill of fishing the clear waters of the St-Jean, river, every aspect of this trip is designed to create a lifetime of memories. It is more than just a fishing trip—it is a chance to learn, experience, and enjoy the best that Atlantic salmon fishing has to offer.

Total Group: 12 students/anglers - 6 spots open

Itinerary:
May 27: Arrive, dinner
May 28: Classroom and casting sessions
May 29: Morning classroom session, followed by on river instruction
May 30 - June 2: Full days of guided Spey fishing and instruction
June 3: Depart for home

Rate: $7,000CAD + 15% tax per person based on double occupancy for a 7 night/6 day package

Included:
Use of Sage, Redington, RIO tackle, all ground transfers, accommodations, all meals, beer and wine, instruction, guided fishing

Not Included:
Airfare, fishing license, taxes, gratuities