Sea Trout Run In New Brunswick

New Brunswick is a haven for anglers, with some of the best sea trout fishing opportunities in the world. Sea trout, also known as speckled trout, coasters, or salters, migrate from the ocean to their spawning grounds in rivers and streams. This typically happens twice a year in New Brunswick, once in the spring (April to June) and once in the fall (September to November). The province's rivers, including the Miramichi, Restigouche, and Tobique, teem with these elusive fish during these seasons, making it an ideal time for anglers to test their luck.

The best time to catch sea trout in New Brunswick

New Brunswick is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with anglers travelling from all over the world to fish its waters. The province is home to some of the best sea trout fishing in the world, with rivers and streams teeming with these elusive fish.

If you're planning to join in the fun, it's important to know when the best time to catch sea trout is. Sea trout runs typically happen twice a year in New Brunswick: once in the spring and once in the fall. So, what does this look like throughout the year?

Spring Sea Trout Runs

The spring sea trout run usually takes place between April and June, with peak activity in May. During this time, you can find sea trout in rivers and streams throughout the province, including the Miramichi, Restigouche, and Tobique rivers. Keep in mind that water levels can be high during the spring, so be sure to have the right equipment. The sea trout can also be quite finicky, so using the right bait and techniques is crucial.

Fall Sea Trout Runs

As for the fall, the sea trout run typically occurs between September and November, with the most activity in October. The same rivers and streams that are popular in the spring are also productive in the fall, although some areas may yield better results than others. Fishing during the fall can be a bit easier due to lower water levels. Additionally, sea trout tend to be more aggressive, leading to more hookups and larger fish.

Specific Dates to Keep in Mind

While the timing of sea trout runs can vary from year to year, there are some specific dates to keep in mind when planning your fishing trip to New Brunswick. Here are some key dates for the Miramichi, Restigouche, and Tobique rivers:

• The Miramichi River spring sea trout run typically starts in mid-April and peaks in mid-May.
• The Restigouche River spring sea trout run usually begins in late April and peaks in early June.
• The Tobique River spring sea trout run generally starts in late April and peaks in mid-May.
• The fall sea trout run often begins in early September and peaks in mid-October.

These dates are just guidelines, as sea trout runs can vary annually due to environmental factors. To get the most up-to-date information, it's always a good idea to check with local fishing guides or outfitters.

So, there you have it! Now you know the best times to catch sea trout in New Brunswick. Happy fishing!

How to identify sea trout

Sea trout, or speckled trout, are anadromous, meaning they migrate from the sea to spawn in freshwater. They are similar to brown trout but have a much more silvery appearance. They have an adipose fin, which is a feature present in all species of trout, and their body is covered in numerous spots. They have a torpedo-shaped and elongated body.

When in freshwater, sea trout are olive in colour, whereas in saltwater, they are silvery. They are usually between 35 and 60 cm (14 and 24 inches) long, and can weigh from 0.5 to 2.4 kg (1.1 to 5.3 pounds). Some sea trout have been found to weigh up to 40 pounds.

Male sea trout in the breeding season develop a 'kype' or a hook-like protrusion on their lower jaw. Sea trout are usually lean before spawning and need to eat a lot of food to increase their energy levels. After spawning, they return to the sea to regain their weight and lose their brown colouring.

Sea trout feed mainly on fish, small crabs, shrimps, prawns, zooplankton and zoobenthos. They are found in the Black and Caspian Seas and as far north as the Barents and Kara Seas in the Arctic Ocean. They are also found in the US, particularly in Canadian rivers, the Columbia River, and the Atlantic and Pacific coasts.

Rivers and streams to find sea trout in New Brunswick

Rivers and streams in New Brunswick are teeming with sea trout, making it a popular fishing destination. The province offers some of the best sea trout fishing opportunities globally, with anglers flocking to its waters during the spring and fall runs. Here are some of the top rivers and streams to find sea trout in New Brunswick:

Miramichi River

The Miramichi River is a renowned sea trout destination, stretching 250 km across the province. It is known for its abundant Atlantic salmon, but sea trout anglers will also find success here. The spring run typically begins in mid-April, peaking in mid-May. The river offers a mix of deep pools and chokepoints that are ideal for fishing. The Reversing Falls in Fallsview Park is a local secret for catching Striped Bass, with fish reaching over 70 pounds!

Restigouche River

The Restigouche River is another well-known sea trout hotspot, attracting anglers worldwide. The spring run here usually starts in late April and peaks in early June. This river is characterised by clear waters and a tranquil atmosphere, making for a memorable fishing experience. It welcomes around 15,000-20,000 salmon each year, and you can expect to reel in salmon weighing between 9 and 14 kg.

Tobique River

The Tobique River is a lesser-known tributary of the Saint John River, offering excellent sea trout fishing opportunities. The spring run typically begins in late April and peaks in mid-May. This river provides a more secluded experience as some areas are more productive than others.

Cains River

The Cains River, a tributary to the Miramichi, is known for its sea-run brook trout. It is home to some of the biggest brook trout in Eastern Canada, with some weighing up to 4.5 kg. Paddling in search of the upper reaches of the river is recommended, as much of the lower river is private property.

Saint John River

The Saint John River is famous for its striped bass fishing, with some claiming it to be the best place in Canada for these sea-run fish. This river offers convenient shore fishing, and you don't need a fishing license on its tidal waters. It is also known for its diverse species, including smallmouth bass and landlocked salmon.

Hammond River

The Hammond River, a tributary of the Kennebecasis River, is known for its Atlantic salmon and brook trout. The Hammond River Angling Association actively preserves this rich fish habitat and offers educational programs and summer camps for anglers of all ages.

Bay of Fundy

The Bay of Fundy, known for its high tides, is also a great spot for sea trout anglers. Popular species include cod, flounder, haddock, halibut, mackerel, and pollack. It is also home to an active lobster and scallop fishery, as well as a diverse population of marine animals.

Magaguadavic River

Located in eastern Charlotte County, the Magaguadavic River offers excellent fishing for brook trout, smallmouth bass, and yellow perch. It connects to Lake Utopia via a natural canal and is home to a stocked population of landlocked Atlantic salmon. Keep an eye out for Old Ned, the local lake monster!

Environmental factors that trigger sea trout migration

Sea trout, also known as Salmo trutta, are a species of fish that undertakes migrations between freshwater and the marine environment. These migrations are triggered by a range of environmental factors, which can vary depending on the specific population and river system. Understanding these factors is crucial for the management and conservation of sea trout populations. Here are some of the key environmental factors that influence sea trout migration:

Water Temperature

Water temperature plays a significant role in triggering sea trout migration. In the river Guddalselva in western Norway, for example, sea trout smolts tend to migrate when river water temperatures are between 5°C and 8°C. This temperature range provides optimal conditions for smolts to adapt to increased salinity and switch to different food sources. Warmer temperatures above 8°C can also trigger migration in certain years, but the optimal temperature window varies depending on the river system.

Water Discharge

Water discharge, or river flow, is another critical factor influencing sea trout migration. Smolts often migrate during periods of moderate to high water discharge, as it facilitates their downstream movement and reduces the energy required for migration. However, extremely high discharges may hinder migration due to strong currents. The interaction between water temperature and discharge is particularly important, as the optimal temperature range for migration can shift depending on discharge rates.

Photoperiod

Photoperiod, or day length, is a key environmental cue for sea trout migration. It influences the initiation of smoltification, the process by which sea trout prepare for migration by undergoing physical and physiological changes. Shorter day lengths in autumn trigger smoltification, while longer day lengths in spring signal the time to migrate.

Lunar Cycles

Lunar cycles also play a role in sea trout migration timing. Sea trout often migrate during specific moon phases, such as the new moon or full moon, when light conditions are favourable for navigation and prey detection.

Food Sources

The availability of food sources can influence the timing of sea trout migration. Sea trout may delay their migration if prey is scarce or if optimal feeding conditions are not met. This is particularly important during their time in the marine environment, where food availability can vary significantly.

Genetic Factors

In addition to environmental factors, genetic factors also influence sea trout migration timing. Local adaptations to specific river conditions, such as temperature and flow regimes, can result in variations in migration timing between different sea trout populations. These genetic differences may reflect optimal growth and survival strategies in the marine environment.

Other Factors

Other environmental factors, such as sea water temperature, river morphology, and the presence of obstacles or barriers, can also influence sea trout migration. Additionally, climate change can impact migration patterns by altering river temperatures, flow regimes, and prey availability.

Tips for fishing sea trout during the spring and fall runs

Sea trout fishing is a popular pastime in New Brunswick, Canada, where anglers can take advantage of the spring and fall runs to catch these elusive fish. Here are some tips to maximize your chances of success during these prime fishing seasons:

Spring Trout Fishing Tips:

• Time it right: In New Brunswick, the spring sea trout run typically occurs between April and June, with peak activity in May. Aim to plan your fishing trip during this window.
• Adapt to water levels: Spring often brings high water levels, so ensure you have the appropriate equipment to handle these conditions.
• Choose the right bait and technique: Sea trout can be finicky during the spring run, so select your bait and fishing technique carefully to entice them to bite.
• Fish in warmer waters: Sea trout seek warmer waters during spring. Look for south-facing, sun-rich bays and beaches with flowing water, as these areas will have higher temperatures.
• Fish early in the morning: Set your alarm and head out before sunrise. You may find large sea trout cruising the shallows after hunting at night.
• Target shallow banks: Trout like to sun themselves, so try fishing the shallow banks that face south. This also helps them emerge from their winter sluggishness.
• Find food sources: Trout will be drawn to areas with abundant food sources. Look for inlets and drainages that feed the lakes and rivers, especially those with gravel bottoms. Trout will often hunt in the calm shallows nearby.
• Locate natural eddies: During high water, trout will rest in natural eddies where the current is obstructed by boulders or logs. Put in the effort to fish these spots, as you're likely to find trout there.
• Stay stealthy: Trout have excellent eyesight, so remember to stay out of sight. Avoid wearing bright clothing, and approach riverbanks and lakeshores carefully.

Fall Trout Fishing Tips:

• Time it right, again: The fall sea trout run in New Brunswick usually occurs between September and November, with peak activity in October. Plan your trip accordingly.
• Fish during peak activity: While fishing is productive throughout the fall run, the peak activity in October offers the best chances for hookups and larger fish.
• Adapt to water levels: In contrast to spring, water levels are generally lower in the fall, making fishing a bit easier.
• Target aggressive trout: Sea trout tend to be more aggressive during the fall run, increasing your chances of catching more and bigger fish.
• Fish the shallows: As the evenings cool down, sea trout will move into shallower waters in search of warmer temperatures. Sleep in, and start fishing as the waters warm up later in the day.
• Locate their food: Crappie, a food source for trout, begin schooling in the shallows during fall. Look for them around sunken logs or brushy cover, or just beyond the weeds in waters 6- to 15-feet deep.

Frequently asked questions