14

The thrill of catching a big fish was what attracted fishermen to the banks of the Grand Cascapedia River.

15

Ugliest Salmon
1880's onward
Grand Cascapedia River


16

Many of the fishermen had their prize catch mounted in one way or another. In many of the fishing camps wooden trophy fish can be found. These fish were cut out to match the size of the salmon caught and the date, weight, and name of the lucky fisherman was noted. Often times the pool where the fish was taken and which fly it was caught on, are also recorded. This is a tradition that still continues today.

17

Celebrity Fishermen
Mid 1900's
Grand Cascapedia River


18

The river attracted fishermen from many walks of life. Bing Crosby enjoyed the sport of salmon fishing on the Grand Cascapedia. According to local folklore his popular song Gone Fishing may have been inspired by his fishing trip to the river.

19

Big Catch
1880's onward
Grand Cascapedia River


Credits:
Hoagy Carmichael, The Grand Cascapedia - A History

20

In the early days of fishing on the Grand Cascapedia, fishermen could fish for salmon without a license. It changed in 1916, when the Quebec government decided that they needed a way to increase their income from this lucrative sport of salmon fishing.

21

The Day's Limit
1900's onward
Grand Cascapedia River


Credits:
Hoagy Carmichael, The Grand Cascapedia - A History

22

Despite the evidence of plenty in this photo, the Grand Cascapedia was a well managed river. The Cascapedia Club, which was formed in 1899, had in place its rules and regulations to protect the river and its natural resources. There were limits as to how many fish any one angler could take during his time on the river. According to the Old Club Rules, no fisherman could take more than 8 salmon a day!

23

The Fishing Camps along the River
1880's onward
Grand Cascapedia River


24

As time went on, more and more fishermen were making their way to the Grand Cascapedia, therefore they needed accommodations in close proximity to the river.

25

Private Camps
Grand Cascapedia


26

There were several private camps built along the river. With the interest in the sport of salmon fishing attracting more of the rich and famous to the river, the need for accommodations grew. Camps such as Lorne Cottage, New Derreen, Red Camp, Horse Island, Salmon Lodge, Middle Camp, Tracadie, and Three Islands were built. These camps employed a full staff from the local community and offered their guests the opportunity to throw a fishing line over one of the best salmon rivers in the world.

27

Princess Louise arrives on the River
1879
Grand Cascapedia River