Camp Bonaventure Atlantic Salmon

Camp Bonaventure is a sporting lodge designed for discriminating fly-fishing enthusiasts and specializes in sight fishing for Atlantic salmon on some of the world's clearest and pristine rivers. The lodge is ideally located in a natural stand of white birches on the bank of the Bonaventure River on the stunning shores of Quebec's Gaspe Peninsula.

Fly fishing is done either by wading or from traditional 26-foot river canoes. Early season can allow for a combination of both, while later in the season the pools are better fly fished by wading. Guests will fish in pairs with professional local guides. The guides are French speaking but speak respectable fishing English. Guides in the region have a very traditional approach, and weighted flies are not allowed, and fishing sink tips is seen as inappropriate. Additionally, if a guest is lucky enough to catch two salmon in a single day, they will be done for the day out of respect for a limited resource.  

Anglers will swing flies in a traditional down and across fashion. They also may fish dead drifted dry flies, especially during times when fish are spotted. There can be a mix of wading and fishing out of traditional 26-foot cedar canoes.  

Camp Bonaventure is ideally located to allow their guests the opportunity to fish three great Atlantic salmon rivers from June through September. The Bonaventure is legendary for its water clarity and sight casting opportunities. The Petit Cascapédia is known for its clear, picturesque pools holding salmon and huge brookies. Thirdly, the famous Grand Cascapédia is where salmon in the forty-pound class are not uncommon. Your days on the river are enhanced by the experience and knowledge of expert guides who have fished these waters for years and know where to put you over fish.

Their experienced guides are among the most respected in the sport. Their profound knowledge and dedication provide the ingredients necessary for a great trip. Whether you are a beginner, just learning how to cast, or an experienced fly caster seeking to perfect your skills with a single-handed or spey rod, the talented guides will take care of your every need.

Camp Bonaventure is ideally located to allow their guests the opportunity to fish three great Atlantic salmon rivers from June through September. The Bonaventure is legendary for its water clarity and sight casting opportunities. The Petit Cascapedia is known for its clear picturesque pools holding big salmon and huge brookies. Thirdly, the famous Grand Cascapedia is where salmon in the forty pound class are not uncommon. Your days on the river are enhanced by the experience and knowledge of expert guides who have fished these waters for years and know where to put you over fish.

Camp Bonaventure offers a refined and comfortable lodging experience that blends rustic charm with first-class hospitality. The lodge is designed to make guests feel at home while surrounded by the natural beauty of the Gaspé Peninsula. The main lodge features four spacious double-occupancy bedrooms, each outfitted with double beds, private ensuite bathrooms, and screened porches that offer a quiet place to relax and enjoy the sounds of the river and the surrounding forest. 

In addition to the main lodge, there is a beautifully appointed private guest house just steps away. This charming cabin includes two double-occupancy bedrooms, each with its own private bathroom and a screened porch. Guests staying in the guest house also enjoy access to a private living room furnished with deep leather chairs and a cozy stone fireplace — the perfect setting for unwinding after a day on the water. 

The interiors throughout the lodge reflect a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with hand-hewn wood accents, tasteful sporting artwork, and large picture windows that bring the outdoors in. A dedicated drying room ensures your gear is warm and ready each morning, while high-speed Wi-Fi and daily housekeeping provide modern comfort without disturbing the lodge’s peaceful, off-the-grid ambiance. 

Gourmet breakfasts, streamside lunches, multi-course dinners, hors d’oeuvres, and snacks are thoughtfully prepared by a professional culinary team using fresh, local ingredients. Meals are served in the main lodge’s elegant dining room, where guests gather at a long harvest table to share stories from the river. Special dietary needs and preferences are happily accommodated with prior notice. 

Gourmet breakfasts, lunches, dinners, hors d’oeuvres and snacks are included. The lodge caters to guests with special dietary requirements.

Hiking and mountain bike trails are located within a half mile from the Lodge and mountain bikes are available for use. For golfers, the lodge is within ten minutes from a wonderful 18- hole, par 72 golf course. 

The Gaspé is famous for its local artisans, many of whom have shops and galleries to visit along the coast. World famous wildlife painter, John Wiseman, has a gallery near the town of Percé. Some of his works are displayed at our camp. The town of Percé is a busy village which offers charm and spectacular scenery. Here the Appalachian Mountain Range plunges into the Atlantic Ocean forming the famous Perce Rock. The resulting geology is very impressive. A day trip to Percé is a definite must. 

This coastline is also a haven to many forms of wildlife. A variety of sea birds are found along the coast and the Provincial Bird Sanctuary on Bonaventure Island hosts the world’s largest population of nesting gannets, and many other sea birds. Trips to the island for bird watching are available. During the summer months the water surrounding the Gaspé is frequented by several species of whales. Minkes, Greys and the enormous Blues are commonly seen. Whale-watching tours are closely regulated so as not to disturb these magnificent creatures but allow excellent opportunities to observe them. 

Day 1: Arrive Bathurst and transfer to the lodge (rental car or shuttle) 

Day 2 – 7: Full days of guided fishing with all meals and accommodations. 

Day 8: Depart lodge after breakfast.

2025 Rates: Per person based on double occupancy and shared guiding. 

7 night/6 day package: CAD $10,325plus 15% HST 4 night/ 3 day package: CAD $4,425 plus 15% HST  

Included: Accommodations and meals including wine with lunch and dinner at the lodge, guided fishing, ground transportation while at the lodge, and GST and provincial sales tax.

Not Included: Airfare, transfers from Bathurst and Gaspe airports, staff and guide gratuities, alcohol, fishing licenses, and additional hotel costs if needed.

Who is best suited to this destination?
This is a great destination for nearly any fly angler interested in pursuing large Atlantic salmon. While casting skills are important, the wading combined with canoe fishing makes the rivers here accessible to all.  

Where is the lodge?
Camp Bonaventure is located on the lower Bonaventure River, about 5 miles from the town of Bonaventure in the province of Quebec.  

How do I get there?
Anglers can fly into multiple regional airports, the best options is Bathurst. While the lodge does have an airport pickup, many guests decide to rent a car and make the final leg of the journey driving.  

When should I go?
June to September 

How will I fish?
Anglers will swing flies in a traditional down and across fashion. They also may fish dead drifted dry flies, especially during times when fish are spotted. There can be a mix of wading and fishing out of the boat.  

Is there wade fishing?
Yes 

Where will I fish?
Camp Bonaventure procuresmany of the quality beats in the winter draw. These are on the Bonaventure, Grand Cascapedia and the Petite Cascapedia. The camp also has several leased properties that allow private access to the Bonaventure River. Once at your beat you may get into a canoe for more access, or wade only.   

How long does it take to reach the fishing grounds?
Every beat is driven to. You may drive minutes to an hour and a half to reach your beat for the day. 

What type(s) of fish will I catch?
Atlantic Salmon from a couple pounds to over thirty. 

How many fish will I catch?
The lodge has a self-imposed guests limit of two fish per day. One opportunity a day is about average. 

Will I see other anglers?
Yes, possibly up or downstream of you in another beat. The good news is they will not be fishing your water.  

What are the guides like?
The guides are all passionate and experienced, some having fished decades on the river. They all are local and French-speaking with adequate fishing English.  

What are the physical demands?
The demands are limited. There are some rocks and such to navigate while wading and walking to the river. You may also have to get in and out of a narrow canoe. Generally speaking this is a great destination for folks of all physical abilities.  

Are there any special skills required?
No, but casting skills are always helpful.  

Does the lodge provide equipment?
Yes, the lodge can provide rental equipment. Most guests bring their own.  

What is your favorite setup for the trip?
A single hand 8-weight and a 7-weight Spey rod. 

What are the top flies?
Traditional bombers for dry fly fishing and a variety of size 4 to 8 hair wing style flies.  

What are the options if water conditions become challenging?
The river conditions are mostly stable in terms of clarity, but they do rise and fall with storms. Guests will typically persevere but can also call it and head back to the comfort of their lodging. 

What is a typical day like?
Breakfast is served at 7AM. On occasion if having to driver far, you may get up an hour earlier for a 6AM breakfast. After breakfast, guests meet their guide for the day out front. You will drive to the beat for the day. If close to the lodge, you may return for lunch. Lunches are packed with the guides and taken on the river. Guests return around 5PM and gather in the main lodge around 6 for appetizers and cocktails. Dinner is at 7PM.  

What is the general vibe, atmosphere, and style of the lodge?
The lodge has a relaxed vibe. The large fireplace is a centerpiece with one side offering gathering space with couches and the other side having a large dining table where all guests eat. The staff is super friendly and cater to your every need.  

Is there an on-site owner, manager, or other point-person at the lodge?
Yes, there is always a manager on site in the office. Kitchen and other staff does come and go.  

Where do we eat, and what are the meals like?
Breakfast and dinner is served in the main lodge, lunch on the river. The meals are well thought out and of high quality. Breakfast offers a special each day or made to order. There is fruit, cereal, yogurt, and juices for those who would rather go light. Lunch is packed with you and eaten on the river. The lunch has snacks, soup, sandwiches and plenty for the day. Dinner is the highlight with a well thought out menu of several courses each evening. Expect well prepared and great dishes and desserts.  

What is the alcohol policy?
Guests are free to bring along anything they prefer. The lodge is close to town, so an easy pickup on any day. 

Where do we stay, and what are the accommodations like?
Camp Bonaventure takes up to 12 guests in a handsome, contemporary lodge with river access.  They have a guest house for up to four anglers and four lodge rooms in the main lodge. The guest house has two double occupancy rooms with private baths and a shared living space with fireplace, couches along with a coffee/tea bar, tying table and small library. All the lodge rooms are well appointed with two beds, plenty of storage and with nice bath facilities. There are screened decks to enjoy the riverfront grounds, and all rooms have AC and heat.  

Is there internet and/or cell service?
Yes, near the lodge, but while fishing you may lose service. 

Are there other activities?
No 

Are there any other expenses?
Fishing license. The lodge also has a small fly shop that is stocked with what their guests need. You can purchase flies, leaders, tippets, etc. on site.  

Do I need a visa?
No but do remember your passport.  

Are there any health concerns, dangers, or annoyances?
Biting bugs can a nuisance.  

We recommend that guests always consult with the U.S. Department of State and the Center For Disease Control websites for general travel information and guidelines.