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585 | David Bishop's Masterclass on Gaspe Peninsula Atlantic Salmon: Unleashing Your Potential on the Water
Season 9 Episode 585
Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/585
Presented By: Waters West, Northern Rockies Adventures, Togens Fly Shop, FishHound Expeditions
Have you heard of the Gaspé Peninsula and thought maybe it was out of your reach for a trip? Are you worried that your spey game isn't at a high enough level to hook a salmon?
Today, we have David Bishop to share tips for success and three key takeaways that will ensure you not only can do this trip but have a chance at hooking an Atlantic Salmon.
Learn about fly speed, when to use dry flies versus wet flies, and uncover a fly pattern you may not have seen before. Discover how to recognize a take and why David recommends using 6lb and 8lb tippets.
Show Notes with David Bishop on Gaspe Peninsula Atlantic Salmon.
01:38 - David Bishop delves into the unique challenge of fishing for Atlantic salmon and why it's often seen as an intimidating species:
Species Specificity: Atlantic salmon are highly dependent on water conditions and fish behavior, unlike other species that may feed more readily. Success Rate: Internationally, the success rate for catching Atlantic salmon can be challenging, with an average of about one salmon per three days of effort. Enigmatic Nature: The mystery surrounding why Atlantic salmon take flies adds to the allure and complexity of fishing for them. Exploring the Diverse Rivers of Gaspe Peninsula
4:00 - Rivers in the Gaspé Peninsula vary in fish population and size, with some rivers known for smaller but abundant fish runs, while others like the Caspapedia River boast large, genetically healthy fish.
The Gaspé Peninsula is hailed as the most accessible salmon fishing destination globally, thanks to the democratic draw system implemented by the Quebec government.
9:00 - Gaspe Peninsula offers a plethora of rivers for salmon fishing, and anglers can also explore nearby areas like the St. Lawrence River and New Brunswick for additional fishing opportunities.
Compared to other international destinations, fishing in Gaspe is affordable, with daily ticket costs ranging from $60 to $180.
David Bishop's Fly Fishing Journey
14:17 - David Bishop shares his early memories of fly fishing, tracing back to childhood experiences with his father and grandfather behind Simsbury High School.
At the age of 10, David caught his first Atlantic salmon. Then at age 14, David worked at a fly shop and later ventured into guiding.
Access to Fishing in the Gaspe Peninsula
17:00 - David elaborates on the democratic access system in the Gaspe Peninsula. Unlike some regions with exclusive and elite fishing practices, Gaspe's model ensures public access while balancing private interests.
The lottery-based system ensures that a percentage of water remains open to the public each day, with clear guidelines on pricing.
Comparatively, regions like the UK and Norway maintain a more privatized approach, limiting access based on wealth and waiting lists.
24:00 - There are two main ways to access the rivers: purchasing a daily access permit for non-reserved waters or participating in the draws organized by the FQSA. Saumon Quebec provides information on river access, draws, and permits.
27:00 - David Bishop discusses various lodging options for anglers visiting the Gaspe Peninsula.
Choosing the Best Time for Atlantic Salmon Fishing in the Gaspe Peninsula
36:00 - For hardcore spey anglers, early June or late September are ideal for fishing gin-clear
Published on 1 year, 8 months ago