Monday February 15th, 2021 River Report.
   It doesn't get much more scenic than this when snowmobiling the backcountry here on the Miramichi. I realize this isn't about fly fishing but it gives some people an idea what things look like here on the river at various times of year. We spent 3 days at a friends cabin running the backcountry this past weekend. The pictures were taken at the mouth of The Sisters and Falls Brook Falls Brooks. The pictures give you and idea what it looks like  with a view looking upriver and downriver from each of the brooks. We broke a trail up to the Falls but my battery decided to die on me so couldn't get a picture of the Falls frozen in. The river is freezing in up there but not as much as it normally would be for this time of year. Our winter hasn't been as cold as it normally gets this year. This area we were snowmobiling in would be a good 80 - 90 miles or more above Blackville through the backcountry to get to these brooks. Much of it in the highlands.

Monday February 8th, 2021 River Report.
   Some off trail riding on our ski doo's. I have access to this area by ski doo so thought I would take a few pictures. As you can see in the slideshow to the left, the river is freezing in quite well on most sections of the river. This is the Dungarvon River , I spend quite a bit of my time between the Dungarvon and Renous Rivers. We were in the area of both today but I only had time to take pictures along the Dungarvon.
    The Renous tends to freeze in more and would not have as much open water. That area is just a bit higher and in more of a snow belt. If you like the outback in the winter the scenery along the rivers in this area is quite spectacular. In one of the pictures you can see tracks along the edge of the ice. Down river from this picture is fresh tracks and they look like Lynx tracks. Lots of game sign along the rivers. Moose, Deer, Fox, Coyote, Lynx, etc. 
​     Covid is still a concern here in N.B. We think of our friends from out of province all the time and hope everyone is well. Be safe and take care.


Sunday December 20th, 2020 River Report.
   I took this picture of the Dungarvon River Friday. It gives you an idea how quickly things can change on the watershed. When I was up that way a week ago Saturday, there was no ice at all showing along the river. In less than a week this particular part of the river is almost frozen in. It will freeze and thaw like this for another week or two then things become more permanent.

Sunday December 13th, 2020 River Report.
   The pictures in the slideshow to the left were taken yesterday along the Dungarvon River. While doing trail work for the snowmobile club I had a chance to take some pictures in this area. River levels are down to normal now. After previous rains they were quite high. You can also see how the brooks are up and some of the wetland areas are starting to accumulate water again. These wet areas were completely dry well into the Fall.
    There is much more snow up there than in the Blackville area. We did get snow last night though and this morning the ground is completely covered here in Blackville with a couple of inches of snow. Yesterday was possibly the last time I will be able to get up in that area on my Honda UTV. We are getting our trails ready now for snowmobiling.
     Colder weather with highs in the single digits are in the forecast for this coming week. Winter is settling in quite fast now and our rivers will take on a whole new beauty. It was encouraging to see normal river levels before freeze up. It is possible the next time I get any pictures in there will be from a snowmobile. It may be awhile before I get more pictures. In the mean time be safe, Merry Christmas, and all the best in the New Year.


​Wednesday December 2nd, 2020 River Report.
   I took these pictures today (slide show to the left)on my walk to the park here in Blackville. One of the pictures is from the N.B Trail bridge looking down the Bartholomew river towards the Miramichi. The other picture is from the boat ramp in the park of the Miramichi River.
    It sort of felt like back in April, a week or two after the ice went out. You wouldn't believe the difference in two days. Our long wait is finally over to see a good flushing of the river. It will be interesting now to see how long this holds. Our rivers seem to raise and lower so fast after rains now.
    As I reflect back on the weather we had this Fall and the pictures of our rivers you can tell how inconsistent our weather was in this area. Some pictures show low water conditions, while others show ice build up, and then thawing with low water and now high water levels. It seems to have been a warmer Fall with less Fall rain until now, which is late. Normally we see more rain throughout the Fall.
     This warmer weather will probably change soon though ,and things will continuously freeze with cooler temperatures each passing week. Most people prefer not to see this transition into Winter but, sometimes the ice with snow brings us some very scenic pictures along our rivers and streams. I will try to post some in the coming months. 
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Monday November 23rd, River Report.
   This is an off season report for those who are interested in seeing the changes during the Fall season on our rivers. The pictures in the left slide show are of the Dungarvon and Renous Rivers. Two of the pictures are from the front veranda of my cabin looking upriver at the island and downriver at the bend in the river. I spent the last 4 days up there enjoying the outdoors. As you can see the rivers are still quite low, there is a freezing and thawing taking place now, and the leaves are completely gone on most trees. I added a picture of a moose scrape as we were seeing all kinds of sign like this.
     One of the things I enjoy the most about this time of year is the visibility through the woods. Our local bald eagle made an appearance Friday. We enjoy lots of northern birds up there like Grey Jays, Blue Jays, and Black Capped Chickadees. Other than a few camp chores most of our time was spent looking for wildlife from the Honda side x side. Unfortunately, I couldn't get a picture of the Martin we saw . They don't hang around very long when humans are around.
      We really concentrated on seeing salmon redds but didn't have much success. Most of the time it was cloudy and the visibility wasn't there. Those areas I expected to see them they were not there. I am wandering if the low water levels may have something to do with that? In fact I was quite surprised at how low the river levels are for this time of year. Almost everyone we met along our travels felt the same way. We also noted the amount of dried up water courses and Springs. Out of 5 springs around my camp 4 of them are completely dry and one is producing a trickle of water. If I ever remember 2020 it will be for the small amounts of rain we received. Normally our rivers would be running quite high right now.
   Something I will definitely take away from 2020 angling season is the need to see water as a resource that needs to be protected. In fact, if this continues to be the trend our focus with conservation groups may be that water becomes the priority above all else. Some of the old guides and rivermen here on the watershed have been saying it for years. Throughout the watershed people are drilling more wells to replace old ones than ever before and camps with springs supplying their water are going dry. The day may come when our provincial government will be forced to be more engaged in a resource that has been neglected for to long. This is a conversation that is becoming the norm in this area and people are going to want their water source protected. I hope it doesn't take our government to long to figure out. Global warming is becoming more of a reality and industrial practices cain't continue as they are. As an old friend who worked in the forestry industry all his life said "we need common sense now more than anything. Our government has to start protecting our water source"...........and I have to say" I couldn't agree more with what he said".
     We should have snow soon. I will try to get some pictures to reflect future changes.

Saturday November 14th, 2020 River Report.
   Tomorrow will be a month since the angling season closed here on the Miramichi watershed. This past week was unusually warm and any signs of winter are gone. In fact, we broke records this week in some parts of the province for the warmest days ever recorded at this time.
   The picture below the video is from last week. You can see the ice build up on the upper side of the bridge on the Dungarvon River. Both the upper and lower side had ice build up. The video to the left is at the lower side of the bridge. No ice but, a beautiful salmon close to the water surface with small fish hanging out with it. They could be salmon parr. Note that the white spots on the water surface is foam not snow.
   My efforts to find salmon spawning this Fall have not been successful at this time. ( We are now doing trail maintenance for the snowmobile club trails and it has taken most of my time to keep up with that). I am hoping to see salmon redds though and will post my findings if successful.
    Normal temperatures are in the forecast for this coming week. This morning we had a few flakes of snow mixed with rain. We had snow this time last year. I expect things will change quite fast in the next week or two. Lets see what the colder weather brings.

​ Thursday November 5th, 2020 River Report.
   I thought I would do a river report to update those interested in knowing how things look here on the Miramichi watershed right now. (Things look much different from my last report in October). The ice in the river is at the bridge in Dungarvon. It tends to collect there. We really haven't had major Fall rains yet. Nothing for an extended time. Those rains we have been getting bump the rivers up but they haven't been holding long. Today the Dungarvon looks fairly decent though and is in good shape for salmon spawning. I have been trying to catch some of the spawning but may have missed it. It is a very short envelope of time.
   The picture of the spikehorn buck was also taken today while along the river. I thought I would add it as it was quite nice to see while out in the woods. We are into hunting season now so he may be at risk as he doesn't seem to be very concerned about me sitting in the truck.      I have been spending quite a bit of time at the cabin and along the Renous and Dungarvon watching for spawning activity. The changes are very noticeable as we are moving into late Fall. I may post more on the rivers as the season transitions into winter just to give you an idea of what things look like during the different stages of the season. Although the leaves are mainly gone there is a different beauty along our rivers during this time of year. Looking forward to watching the changes. Will try and share it with you.

​Friday October 16th, 2020 River Report.
   Our angling season closed yesterday. With it came that raise in water levels we were waiting so long to see. Fishing has been quite good for some of the clubs and lodges during the past couple of weeks. For others who didn't have access to the better holding pools it wasn't as good. I think if we had of received rain earlier though that would have been much different. The salmon were there, the conditions were not .More rain is forecasted for tomorrow so our rivers should be in good shape for Fall spawning.
   What a season? Good early runs which was very encouraging with lots of anglers hooking salmon. Then that long dry spell with cold water pool closures that we haven't seen the likes of before. In my 41 years of renting canoes on this watershed I have never seen the rivers so low for so long. As usual with these conditions many people wander if the salmon will be able to get up the rivers to spawn in such low water. The answer came the last couple of weeks in the season as fresh salmon were showing up in various parts of the watershed even though water levels were low..........And finally rain bringing the rivers up the last day of the season. I think we can be assured that the spawning will be successful with these conditions.
   So, another salmon angling season is behind us. We would like to thank all those customers who supported us this season. We really appreciate it. To those of you south of the border and internationally, we really missed you. The season wasn't the same. You are a big part of our community and not having you on our rivers and in our communities was really different. Lets hope next year we can resume our favorite sport and welcome you once again to the Miramichi. In the mean time, enjoy the off season, be safe, and lets hope for a much different 2021 angling season. Take care. Cathy, Norma, and Brock.
      We will be closing for the off season but if you need anything ,please call. We will continue to meet our customers and open the store when needed.

​Thursday Oct 8th,2020 River Report.
   I woke this morning just before 6:00 AM to the sound of rain. How nice the sound the patter of rain is on a metal roof, especially when our area needs rain so badly. With the blink of an eye though it stopped around 7:00 AM and blue skies are now showing off to the northwest. I couldn't wait to get this report on my website. I meant to do it earlier in the week but with computer issues I couldn't get it published. So, I am quite excited to do this report.
     We all have been waiting to hear when the Fall runs are starting on the Miramichi and it is happening now. Since my last report on Sunday the river has been quite active with salmon. A few people always question whether they will come in when the river is low. Our experience is ,when they decide to come in they start moving regardless of the water levels.
    Lots of reports from anglers all week of seeing salmon and hooking into salmon. These are good reports from reliable sources who make a living on the river guiding, etc. Most are commenting on the good numbers and how we haven't seen this many salmon in years. More than one angler has commented on catching the largest salmon in their life this week on the Miramichi. Reports of hooking into salmon over 40lb have been heard along the river. Keep in mind I am speaking more on conditions here on the lower section of the river in the Blackville area, though we are hearing of good angling upriver too.
     For quite awhile small salmon flies and bombers were the flies of choice but lately anglers are reporting using streamers, marabous, and shrimp patterns. One angler commented you could cast anything out there right now and catch a salmon.
      With one week remaining to the angling season I expect we will have quite a few positive reports in the next few days. If you have been waiting for things to change to get out on the river I recommend you get out there soon. With rain last night and fresh salmon moving upriver the chances of hooking a salmon couldn't be better. Enjoy! Hope to see you out there.

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   Sunday Oct 4th, 2020 River Report
    We had another week where the forecasted rain missed us once again on the Miramichi. This has been the trend all Summer. So the forecast for this weeks rain isn't something I get to excited about. I know our Fall rains are coming but it seems like it will be late for the salmon angling. Regardless, we have anglers who are hooking into salmon and enjoying the Fall fishing. Other anglers are just getting out on our rivers to enjoy the scenery. It is beautiful out there right now and a favorite time of year for many anglers.
    I would like to remind anglers that some of the tributaries are now closed above certain points on the rivers. The Dungarvon - above the Furlong bridge, the Renous - above the forks, the Little South West - above Clelands pool. You can double check in your angling booklets on this. I am only going by memory as these portions of the rivers are generally closed after Sept 15th.
     Fall runs should be starting any day now. I have heard large numbers of salmon are in the Bay waiting to make that last effort to their spawning grounds. Lets see what the next few days bring. I will report when I hear more. Enjoy your favorite river. It is beautiful right now.

​ Monday Sept 28th, 2020 River Report.
  The pictures in the top, left slideshow, are from the Dungarvon, Renous, Little South west and a branch of the Little South West Miramichi. As you can see , it is little wander so many anglers enjoy the Fall fishing on the Miramichi watershed. It is absolutely beautiful in this area right now. Water levels are extremely low. The lowest I have ever seen. We seem to have forecasted rain almost every week but for some reason our watershed doesn't get it. At this time we have a forecast for significant rain for Wednesday and Thursday. I really hope we get it.
    I couldn't have asked for a better week at the cabin, and will add, that the gentleman who shared it with dad and I have been part of this annual event for many years. Our travels each day was in UTV's and my waders and rod were part of the cargo. While lunching the guys planned it around a pool so I could wet a line. The confidence in my ability to hook a salmon is quite low right now. Ha! Ha! My excuses were falling on deaf ears too. We did see salmon though and in some cases quite large numbers just holding in pools. Early in the week we estimated around 200 salmon laying in one pool, mostly grilse. We really need rain for these fish to move further upstream. It is little wander the counts are low at some counting barriers as the salmon are holding much further downstream.
   The picture of the guys by the chimney is at a location below the forks on the Renous. My father is to the far right. At 84 years of age he really adds a different perspective to our annual event. His old buddy couldn't join him this year due to family issues but did make it in for a visit. They started this event over 40 years ago and we will be continuing it into the future.
   So, there are salmon being caught here on the lower section of the Miramichi and a few comments from other rivers. The main comment though from anglers is, we need more rain. If we get what is forecasted that will make quite a difference and should jump start the fishing all over the watershed. I will report any changes . Enjoy! It is beautiful out there right now.

​Sunday Sept 20th, 2020 River Report.
   Forecasted rain for last week didn't materialize but we do have rain once again forecasted for this Tuesday. Hopefully we will receive a good soaking. One has to ask themselves these days how the salmon are getting up some of our rivers. Even so, some anglers are seeing and catching salmon. In fact quite a few anglers this past week reported hooking into salmon and seeing quite a few salmon in the river. Keep in mind I am mainly talking about the lower section of the river here in the Blackville area. These salmon are lying in certain pools at the mouths of brooks, tributaries, etc.
    On another note, the annual Moose Hunt is starting Tuesday ,so be mindful when hiking through the woods and along streams of hunters who may be in your area. It might even be wise to have some hunters orange to make yourself visible. 
      This will be my last report until next week as I am away at my cabin for the week. I will report any changes of river conditions and angling when I get back. This is a beautiful time of year to be spending time on our rivers. If you are fortunate enough to take advantage of our Fall fishing I am sure you will enjoy it. If we get rain it will even be better. Enjoy and be safe.


​Monday Sept 14, 2020 River Report.
    In my last report I predicted it should be good fishing coming into the weekend. Well, it didn't happen. We had great angling that week and then it nose dived on the weekend. I am sure some anglers were wandering what I was basing my information on. It is interesting sometimes how salmon will just shut down and stop taking only to maybe get interested in the fly a few days later.
    It has been a bit quiet in the last week and really we didn't have a lot to report. There were a few salmon caught and one salmon fisherman from Nova Scotia caught a beautiful salmon in the 30lb to 30lb plus range. But really not a lot to report.
     In the last few days though it seems to be picking up again. More anglers are commenting on landing or hooking into salmon. Bombers and small salmon flies are still popular.
     A good quantity of rain is in the forecast later in the week. Our rivers really need rain to bring them up to normal levels. I am sure some of our salmon are waiting for a good raise in the river too. The colors are becoming much more obvious these days. You can see changes each day now. A beautiful time to be on our rivers. Quite a few fisherman are commenting on how nice it is to be fishing this time of year. I will post as I hear more. Enjoy!

​Friday Sept 4th, 2020 River Report.
   The pictures of the small yearling moose in the slideshow to the left were taken Tuesday evening from my front veranda. I like to spend time on my veranda watching the eagles, heron, ducks, geese, etc fly up the Bartholomew River in the morning and back down in the evening.  They tend to overnight on the larger Miramichi at night and feed during the day on the tributary. The moose was sort of a bonus. I caught something out of the corner of my eye while reading and looked up to see this moose watching me. I really don't know how long it was there. It wasn't in a hurry and seemed to be sniffing the flowers at the corner of the house. After awhile it slowly moved on to another point of interest.
    Many a time we have had customers comment on waiting for the deer to move so they could park or the eagle they saw soaring within view of the tackle shop. We probably have a unique business as I don't know of to many tackle shops that are this close to nature.
     Things are shaping up for a good weekend angling on the Miramichi. The forecast is for nice weather. Almost everyone we have been talking to all week are hooking into, losing, or landing salmon. The flies of choice seem to be smaller patterns and bombers.
       A good friend who is a professional guide at one of the clubs commented today on his son catching a fresh salmon earlier in the week. Maybe with the full moon we got some fresh salmon into the watershed.
      If you are here fishing this weekend, enjoy the river. This is a great time to be angling.

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Sunday August 30th, 2020 River Report.
  The pictures in the slideshow on the top left are of the Sabbies River which flows into the Cains River. In one of the pictures you will notice the red showing along the shoreline on the Maple trees. Another picture shows a  Spring which is still producing a good flow of water. These pictures were taken yesterday while searching for the original Underhill land grant in this area along the river. At the time the family owned a saw mill and grist mill which was water powered. We explored this area in UTV's and ATV's. I was fortunate to have Grant Underhill a descendant of the original Underhill family with me who was able to give me a history of his family. This sight was settled in the late 1700's and early to mid 1800's. They came here after the American revolution as Loyalists.
    Standing on the shore while eating hot dogs and sausage and listening to the family talk about their recollection of where the homestead and mill were was a real treat. One could only imagine the existence these folks were faced with back in the day. 
   On another note, this is the area where the forest fire went through earlier this Summer. We noted how the fire tended to hit in pockets. It seemed to jump from one pocket of forest to another, back and forth across the two rivers.
  As more anglers are now starting to get back on the river we are seeing the clubs and lodges back in business. With that is more reports of anglers hooking into salmon. Some anglers seem to be doing quite well.
  The rain we got today and yesterday didn't seem to arrive as forecasted. Hopefully the headwaters received more as we could use a raise in our rivers. Temperatures are no longer a concern. Everyone now is hoping for rain.
  I am looking forward to this week as we have more anglers in the area and will get a better indication of the angling along the river. I will post as I hear more.

​ Friday August 28th, 2020 River Report.
  We have had lots of confusion this week with anglers not being aware and not seeing on DFO's website the notice on reopening of the cold water pools. If you scroll down far enough on their webpage you will find a section on REOPENING. Unfortunately if you aren't following this website every day you would not know what decisions are being made on the river. There are no other means of hearing or reading what DFO's decisions are on the river. Some anglers were sure it wasn't open and even had us believing it for awhile.
   So, other than a bit of confusion things are starting to look up. River temperatures are now quite cool and rain is in the forecast for the weekend. We really need rain. All of the rivers in the Miramichi watershed are low and need rain to bring them up. I haven't heard if there are any new salmon runs coming in. Salmon are being caught along the river but no one has indicated if any fresh salmon were among them. The next full moon is just around the corner so maybe we will see a fresh run then.
   Early signs of Fall is quite noticeable this week. You could detect it in the cooler day temperatures and very cool evenings. More people are also commenting on seeing the odd maple showing Fall colors. This is a great time to be salmon angling. From here on into the season it only gets better. Fall colors and Fall rains will slowly change how things look along our rivers. For many anglers this is their favorite time to be salmon fishing. As most of us say " any day on the river is a good day." This especially applies to our Fall fishing.
    For those who are getting back on the river after a long heatwave you will see the difference quite fast. You will also notice the early signs of Fall. Enjoy the weekend. I will post if I hear anything new.

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Sunday August 23rd, 2020 River Report.
  I need to apologize for missing DFO's notice on cold water pools opening this past Thursday. Apparently the notice was posted but I didn't see it. I guess most of the anglers I talked to hadn't been aware of it either.
   Water temperatures continue to drop. I checked the river temperatures yesterday morning and my thermometer was showing 65F. We are also hearing of other anglers hooking into salmon and having pretty good luck. Now that the river is completely open again for angling we should start hearing of more hook ups. It has been a long time since July 21st so good news to finally have conditions back to normal and all pools open for angling. I will report when I hear more.

​Friday August 21st, 2020 River Report.
  Here is a quick update on river conditions going into the weekend. For those of you who are wanting to get back on the river and try your hand at catching a salmon  this is good news.
   I have been measuring the water temperatures for the last 3 days and we are now 2 days below 70F. At noon today in three inches of water along the shore I consistently got a temperature reading of 66F. Air temperatures are still at 13C with rain and tonight it is forecasting a low of 9C. Unfortunately, DFO will probably not make a decision on opening the cold water pools until next week. They probably won't do anything over the weekend.
  For the past three days we have been seeing an increase in the number of salmon fisherman coming into the tackle shop. Are they catching salmon? One of the guys mentioned catching a salmon Wednesday. So with so few anglers on the river that probably isn't a bad percentage.    Today is cool, cloudy, and raining, what most of us would call a "salmon fishing day."
  I may be a bit premature in saying this but, most of the anglers I am talking to including myself are quite curious to see how long it will take DFO to open the cold water pools. 
  On another note, while in the park today measuring the water temperatures Blain Higgs who just happened to be making a stop in Blackville on the campaign trail approached me and we had a really good chat. He asked about the river and seemed genuinely interested in my thoughts on the angling industry.  I was encouraged when he told me that his party is looking at some kind of management plan for the rivers of N.B in the future. I have to say, I didn't mince my words when I told him that the provinces record of engagement in managing their responsibility  for our rivers was sad and embarrassing. It surprised me when he agreed and felt the same as I do. He seemed to be more aware of this resource than I thought he was and it was encouraging to hear he would like to try to do something about it. I told him if he planned to do something about it he would get my vote. It is long overdue to have a government engaged in managing our rivers. Maybe there is hope for better management of our rivers in the future after all.
  I will post as I hear more. In the mean time if you are waiting for improved river temperatures they are here. Enjoy the weekend.

Wednesday August 19th, 2020 River Report.
  DFO lifted morning fishing restrictions yesterday to full day fishing. Cold water pools are still closed but all other fishing is back to normal. I have been checking river temperatures and they are slowly returning to normal temperatures. We have had some evenings where it has been quite cool. It is showing 12C here this morning. Day temperatures have dropped this week too.
   Our canoers are seeing salmon jumping at the mouth of brooks. The cooler water temperatures generally sparks a bit of life back into the salmon. Other comments on seeing lots of ducks, geese, eagles, herons, etc along the river. The change is also showing in the number of anglers around. We are seeing a few of the guys making their way back to the river again. If the weather continues as it is forecasted we should see the rivers back to normal soon. It has been a long stretch of hot weather this summer. Most of us just want to see the river back to normal so we can enjoy it. I will post when I hear more.

Thursday August 13th, 2020 River Report.
   DFO has made notice that morning fishing only will be in place from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM starting today. This applies to any water that is open for fishing. All cold water pools also remain closed. This pretty much applies to any salmon river in N.B.
   It was quite cool last night and the forecast is showing much different temperatures for the next two weeks. Thankfully the heatwave is behind us. It dropped to 14C last night and we will be seeing more of these evening temperatures in the future. 
    Things have been quite quiet here on the Miramichi. The heatwave has really slowed the angling down. We should see a shift though in water temperatures as the new forecasted temperatures take affect. It is just a matter of time and hopefully things will be back to normal. Most of us just want to see cooler temperatures and our rivers fishing again. That slow change into Fall is just around the corner. In fact, I saw the leaves on a Maple showing red this past Sunday. That is an early sign of what is to come. In the mean time we need rain. Rivers are low and a few days of rain on top of the forecasted cooler temperatures would really change things up quite fast. I will post when I hear or see any positive changes.


Wednesday August 5th, 2020 River Report.
   I want to share a unique river experience a group of us here in the Blackville area do each year. Many years ago my mother and father encouraged Norma and I to join them for a canoe run on the full moon of August. My parents said, "you guys will enjoy it". We certainly did and have continued the tradition to this day. Though my parents don't participate now they are still involved in shuttling the trucks for us.
   This past Monday night we loaded our equipment and gear and met our two friends Grant and Diane who have become as excited about this event as we are and a few others to run the river. It was just coming on dark, the river was covered in a hatch, you would think at first there were drops of rain hitting the river surface as the hatch was so abundant. By the time we had all the kayaks and canoes in the river it was quite dark. Parts of the river though had a silver sheen to it as the light from the moon was reflecting off it. We paddled hard to the other side of the river, hit the run and then pushed hard to river left towards the mouth of a nice brook. Grant said, "Brock, time to swing the canoes upriver and watch for the moon to come up above those large White Pine standing along the shoreline". We were just passing the mouth of the brook and I had the canoe part way turned upriver when a splash off my right happened. Grant said, " a salmon just jumped". He hardly got that out of his mouth when another splash occurred and we all saw that salmon. Two large salmon jumped in less than 5 minutes on the water. Everyone commented how nice it was to be able to have this experience, especially those who were with us for the first time.
    We floated pointing upriver for quite awhile watching the moon come up. The odd comment was made how this full moon was called a low moon. As the moon rose above the treeline it was like pushing a light switch and turning the lights on. I spotted an eagle and it left its perch and flew downriver ahead of us. It was extremely quiet and you could hear the springs flowing into the river. As we approached a few of the bars we could see wakes where salmon were moving upriver. We had to laugh when Troy asked if we minded him playing a little guitar. I think he felt we would sooner enjoy the quiet. With Troy on his Martin equipped with new strings sounding in the background, I am sure those in cabins who have seen this all before made there way out to their verandas to listen, watch, some saying hello, joining us in this annual ritual. A few people at one of the cabins which is locally owned ,were sitting out watching the moon too and you would think the Dungarvon Whooper had returned with all the whooping that started when they saw us on the river. Whooping tends to be a Miramichi thing. Especially at a party in the evening. Ha!
    Later we saw a beaver and he swam along with us for a short distance ,then the smack of his tail on the water and off he went. Other than when we put in the canoes there were very few flies. We saw lots of wakes the salmon were making moving upriver and quite a few times they were jumping at the mouths of brooks.
​   Though the river is low and water temperatures are warm we saw quite a few salmon. The lower section in the Blackville area is still good for canoeing. We really need rain though and cooler temperatures to improve the fishing. Whether the salmon we saw were coming in on the full moon is hard to say. There were definitely salmon moving upriver and it was very encouraging to see the numbers of salmon jumping along the river. 
    As the days slip by, Dog Days will soon be behind us and cooler evenings will become more common. The forecast is for warm weather but that will soon change. I will post as I hear more.

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Sunday July 26th, 2020 River Reeeport.
    Just a quick summary of this week on the river. Warmer temperatures and very little rain have had an impact on salmon hook ups. We heard very little from anglers coming into the tackle shop on  hooking into salmon. Cold water pools remain closed but we still have anglers fishing open water in the mornings and evenings. Most just enjoying being on the river. Which is good because we need anglers on our rivers as they discourage poaching.
     What is interesting this season is the number of salmon that continue to come in to the river system regardless of river conditions. While instructing a spey casting client yesterday we watched about 12 salmon swirl, not jump, above the Coughlan Bar here in Blackville. These salmon were all above the bar and seemed to be possibly moving upriver between 10:00 and 12:00 in the morning. Lots of other reports are coming in from anglers saying " the mouth of Renous in Quarryville is full of salmon". 
     Rain is in the forecast for a number of days this week and lower temperatures too. This will definitely help river conditions. Most anglers are hoping to see the river back to normal and cold water pools open soon. A good rain to raise the river and flush it out would be good. Lets see what this weeks forecast brings. I will report any changes when I hear of anything. 

​ July 17th, 2020 River Report.
    Just a quick notice on cold water pools. Apparently I missed the variation order yesterday where DFO opened the cold water pools for angling. Things started to pick up yesterday and we continue to hear today from anglers who are catching salmon, so it should be good fishing over the weekend. Sorry I didn't get the information out earlier on the cold water pools opening. Enjoy the weekend. Be safe. I will report if I hear anything new.

​Thursday July 16th, 2020 River Report.
    Quite a few customers coming into the tackle shop commented on catching or hooking into salmon today. Keep in mind I am talking about the lower section of the river in the Blackville area. I also have been hearing from some of our locals sources who live on the river that fresh runs of salmon are coming in. It slowed for a couple of days but they claim we are getting salmon coming in almost every day. In fact, quite a few anglers believe we haven't seen these kinds of numbers since 2011.
    Because it just started picking up today we haven't heard if anything is happening upriver. I expect they are experiencing good fishing too as the river conditions are quite good. Cooler temperatures this week have brought water temperatures down and many anglers are calling wandering if the cold water pools are open. At this point the warm water protocols are still in place. Maybe that will change tomorrow.
     If you missed out on the great fishing last week this may be a good time to get out on the river. I just picked some canoers up here at the park in Blackville and they saw quite a few salmon jumping along the river. Cooler temperatures again this evening should make for another good day angling tomorrow. Enjoy! I will report when I hear more.

​Sunday July 12th, 2020 River Report.
    I stood on the shore overlooking the Grey Rapids last night ,about an hour or more before dark. The sky was overcast and a sprinkling of rain was coming down. It wasn't a steady rain but had an on and off pattern to it. Things were quiet and the flies were even cooperating. As I stood there I noticed a lone angler come out of the tree line on the north side of the river overlooking the Grey Rapid Pool. I watch him strip his line out and start casting, slowly working through the pool. It was so quiet and peaceful and as I stood there waiting for my canoers I couldn't help to think how many Saturday nights I have spent in various weather conditions on the banks of the Miramichi waiting for canoers and most times enjoying a few casts before their arrival. While most people are home socializing on a Saturday night and I must say," I enjoy being with friends and family too", but this has always been an important part of my life. In fact this connection was well rooted in my life when I first started renting canoes back when I was 18 years old. Forty One years later as I stand on the bank of my favorite river I still enjoy it every bit as much as I did as a teenager.  
    As I stand soaking up the environment around me I couldn't help to wander about the connection and joy I get being around the river. Watching the first canoe approach the shore, the way it glides through the water, and not a noise as the paddlers swing the bow upriver and glide to rest on the rivers edge. As the next three canoes repeat the same maneuver all coming to rest and all 8 people with a smile on their face, anxiously wanting to tell me of the salmon they saw jumping, the bald eagles they counted, the ducks, geese, and especially the spot on the shore of the river where one of the lady's, (soon to be wife) of a good friend found a clay deposit and sunk to her knees in it. Of course all 8 of the paddlers had to get their turn trying to walk through it becoming filthy and having to go in for a swim. This group from Fredericton had a great day even though it was cloudy and pouring rain at times. 
       After we load the canoes and I prepare to depart this enthusiast group of young  adults I take one last look at the lone angler across the river. It isn't long now before dark, I jump in the old Ford and start up the hill, trailer in tow, knowing I am one of the luckiest people on earth.
     The angling has slowed but what a week we had. The forecast is for much cooler temperatures Tuesday and much cooler evenings along with rain. This will slowly bring river temperatures back down. There is much more though to fishing than only hooking fish. I encourage people to get out on the river and try to connect with this great  ecosystem. Enjoy! I will report as I hear more.


  Friday July 10th, 2020 River Report.
    Just a reminder for those who aren't aware of DFO's postings. Our cold water pools were reopened Wednesday and Thursday but will be closed again today. If you notice a salmon fisherman who is fishing on these waters let them know so they are aware of the postings.
     Late yesterday afternoon we had quite a thunder storm go through the Blackville and Miramichi City area. I don't think it hit upriver from us but the rain should give the ground in this area quite a soaking.
     Anglers coming into the tackle shop yesterday were commenting on landing salmon upriver as far as Doaktown. So the salmon runs we are seeing here in the Blackville area are making their way further upriver. We continue to hear of anglers catching salmon especially in the low water pools. Also hearing from anglers that they are still seeing quite a few salmon jumping and showing along the river.
     The forecast is for warmer temperatures over the weekend but we can still enjoy good morning and evening angling. Enjoy the weekend and I will post if I hear anything new.

Thursday July 9th, 2020 River Report.
     I wasn't aware when I did yesterdays river report that DFO had reopened the cold water pools for July 8th and 9th and they will be closed again on July 10th. Be aware of this as it will probably create some confusion as to why and what is open this weekend. Sorry I missed this yesterday but we were not notified of this change. Enjoy the fishing.

​Wednesday July 8th, 2020 River Report.
     Today is cool with heavy rain at times, the kind of day some salmon fisherman would refer to as - salmon fishing weather. This long awaited for rainy weather is a blessing and should improve river conditions even more. Since the weekend we have heard from anglers of the large numbers of salmon being seen along the lower section of the river here in the Blackville area. These salmon seem to be coming in prior to the full moon Sunday night as a few reports of salmon moving upriver were coming in Friday. 
    Though DFO haven't opened the cold water pools yet, and most of us don't understand why, it doesn't seem to have discouraged those willing to get out on the sections of the river that are open and land a few fish. Some of the low water pools have been producing a few salmon but since Sunday we are hearing some great news from anglers who all seem to be catching salmon. One angler said he hooked 4 salmon Sunday and everyone else at that pool had hooked at least 1 salmon. Everyone coming into the tackle shop today are talking of hooking salmon or of the numbers of salmon they are seeing. The flies of choice seem to be the undertaker, preacher, and green machine.
     The main conversation from all the anglers right now coming into the tackle shop seems to centre around DFO and how they are letting the Miramich down. Most cain't understand why the cold water pools still remain closed. It almost reminds one of a few years back when the warm water protocol came into place and they would close the cold water pools to late and open them long after the river conditions had returned to normal. Sometimes it would be two weeks after the river was back to normal before they would open the cold water pools again. Whatever their reasoning it just seems to be creating a deeper divide and frustration from camp owners, outfitters, guides, salmon fisherman, etc and DFO. It really is unacceptable and needs to change. It seems every major aspect of river management here on the Miramichi is in jeopardy due to DFO not being able to make a decision. Most salmon fisherman who fish the Miramichi has a deep respect for this river system and when discussing the river management by DFO and the provincial government will generally sum it up as being SAD and EMBARRASSING that things have reached this point.
       Things being as they are this is a great time to be angling the Miramichi. If your wanting the thrill of hooking into a fresh salmon on a fly rod this is the place to be. Enjoy! I will report when I hear more.



 Sunday July 5th, 2020 River Report.
     The pictures in the slideshow to the left were taken yesterday along the Dungarvon river. I was curious to see what kind of shape this river was in and it surprised me to see the river height being what it was. We have been getting some thunder storms but no major rain. I guess the bit of rain we have been getting has brought this river up to a good level.
      A friend of mine watched two schools of salmon moving upriver yesterday morning before 9:00 AM. He said the Main Southwest had raised 6" or more. Unfortunately the cold water pools are still closed. We thought they would be opened yesterday but haven't heard anything from DFO. Quite a few anglers are commenting how things should be back to normal fishing as the conditions are good now for fishing. Those areas that are open seem to be producing salmon on the fly. The green machine seems to be the favourite among those who are hooking salmon.
      The forecast is for more rain this week and cool evening temperatures. We should be hearing of the cold water pools opening soon and more anglers hooking salmon. I will post when I hear more.

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Wednesday July 1st, 2020 River Report.
      I don't have a lot to report on salmon being caught as the cold water pools are still closed. Crown water restrictions have been lifted and we are now allowed to travel in the woods and on the rivers. We should see cold water pools opening soon. The temperatures have been cooler, especially the evenings. A few heavy thunderstorms passed through the area and the last two days have been cooler with cloud cover and mist. Some of us refer to this weather as salmon fishing weather. Rain is in the forecast for tomorrow so hopefully things will open after that.
      Though we haven't been able to angle on the rivers we were able to watch some significant activity on the Miramichi. Lots of folks are commenting on how many schools of shad they watched over the past two weeks. These fish have been spawning here in the Blackville area and have returned downriver. My take on this from discussing the shad with the locals is that we had a very good return of shad this year. For almost two weeks these folks have watched the shad going downriver in large V's. The shad will leave a V shape in the water on their way out to the ocean. This is always a unique experience on the Miramichi for camp owners.
      Word on the salmon is that we are seeing quite a few salmon moving upriver. This heatwave has caused them to hold up in the cold water pools. Even though river temperatures are warm they continue to come in.  It was nice to see a mix of salmon and shad coming upriver but we are seeing salmon continue to come in to the river system.
      So, good shad runs, lots of comments on how good the trout fishing was, and salmon continue to come in to the river. What the salmon numbers are we don't know as DFO have not put in the counting fences yet. If things go well we should be angling salmon soon. I will post as I hear more.



Tuesday June 23rd, 2020 River Report.
      Just a quick update this morning on river conditions. DFO made notice yesterday of cold water brooks that are closed due to warm water conditions. You can check the specific brooks out on the DFO website. This heatwave should be coming to an end within the next couple of days. Provincially all crown lands are closed too. These are very unusual conditions and we have to be careful of forest fires.
       The good news is the weather forecast is showing rain almost every day for the rest of the week into next week. We also keep getting reports from locals of the number of salmon they are seeing along the river. Keep in mind I am referring to the Blackville area here on the lower section of the river. 
       Be patient as this heatwave will be coming to an end soon and things will hopefully return to normal in a few days. I will post as I hear more.

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         Friday June 19th, 2020 River Report.
       Although we are in a heat wave and our woods are shut down resulting in canoeing, kayaking, tubing banned until we get rain, I do have some good news. Wednesday we heard from an angler that he saw a salmon jumping here in the Blackville area. Again on Thursday we heard the same thing and today we heard of salmon jumping at the mouth of Renous in the Quarryville area. There is obviously a run of salmon coming in and these fish will probably start holding in the cold water pools, unlike the earlier salmon back a couple of weeks ago that moved through the river system into the headwaters.
         The pictures in the slideshow to the left were taken this morning here in the Blackville area. As you can see water levels are nice for wading and with salmon moving into the river we should have pretty good fishing in the near future.
         I would like to mention once again to our salmon fishing friends from the U.S and internationally that we do miss seeing you folks here on the Miramichi. Covid 19 has not been kind to our sport. I am afraid we may have lost some of our salmon fishing friends. Time will tell. We are a small community of anglers who enjoy salmon fishing. That being said, I heard this week from a friend in Maine who told me his father passed away. Twelve hours before his passing he was speaking of his upcoming fishing trip to his cabin on the Miramichi. The Fenderson's have been coming to the Miramichi for decades fishing salmon. We send our condolences to the family. Mr. Fenderson will be missed on our river.
       Tomorrows temperatures are dropping and hopefully this heatwave will be behind us soon. Time to get salmon fishing. Take care and be safe. I will post as I hear more.



​Wednesday June 10th, 2020 River Report.
       It has been awhile since my last report. Things have been a bit hectic since dad was diagnosed with Lukemia. I wish I had more pictures of the river to post as it is that time of year when the vegetation has that rich green look, the hatches are happening, and all kinds of species of fish are in our rivers.
     Reports have been coming in of the odd bright Salmon being caught here on the Miramichi and it's tributaries. River conditions are perfect for Salmon fishing and they are here. Unfortunately we have fewer anglers this season on our rivers so not as many reports coming in. We do have quite a few local N.B residents angling but do miss the hard core out of province Salmon fisherman who are always here to chase the Rocky Brook and early Bright Salmon runs. The Miramichi always attracts a small unique group of salmon anglers that wouldn't be anywhere else but the Miramichi this time of year. We have been communicating with some of these folks but for those of you who might be reading this report we really miss seeing you here on the Miramichi. It isn't the same without you.
       A good friend who lives here in Blackville and only starts fishing when the Trout are taking dry flies was in over the weekend to pick up more dry flies. Ian generally starts his season sitting on the bank of a river watching the water and early signs of change. As things shape up to suite him he will make his way to the tackle shop for a specific batch of flies and off he goes. Well, that time is here and he has been at it hard core for a week or so. Guy's like Ian are a great gage as to what is happening on the rivers here in the Blackville area.
       Bass fishing is slowing down. Not as many anglers going for them now. Most locals have enough in their freezer to keep them happy. The focus in the past while has been Trout. This seems to be a good season for the Trout fishery as we have had lots of reports of large Trout and extremely happy anglers. The Shad runs are here in the Blackville area and a few anglers who enjoy a Spring meal of Shad are out enjoying that experience.
       Overall, this is one of the best times to be angling on the Miramichi. Very few rivers offer as many species of fish to angle as the Miramichi. If you are interested or craving a meal of fresh Trout, Shad, or Bass this is the time to be on the river. Lots of locals are enjoying time on the river and a meal of fresh fish and fiddleheads all picked or caught on the river. Remember to bring fly repellent. Enjoy, and be safe.

​ Sunday May 31st, 2020 River Report.
       I just posted my report when we got word Jason Curtis caught a bright salmon here in the Blackville area. This is probably the first bright salmon caught on the river this season. It is great to know they are here.
​Sunday May 31st, 2020 River Report.
       Things have finally cooled down and the forecast for this coming week is for a continuation of cooler temperatures. This heatwave has increased river temperatures creating perfect conditions for our bass to spawn, smolts to start their migration from our rivers to the ocean, forest fires, and all kinds of hatching is occurring. You will also notice a significant difference along the rivers as things have really greened up.
        So this week one of the major concerns here in our communities along the river is the forest fires in the Cains River area. They are about 60% contained at this time but things are very dry and it is difficult to put these fires out in these conditions. Be very careful if you have plans for camping in the backcountry.
        A section of the Norwest Miramichi is closed from the Redbank bridge to the Williamstown road due to spawning bass. Everything outside of that area remains open and people are catching quite a few bass here on the Main Southwest Miramichi in the Quarryville area. I know of quite a few anglers doing quite well in this area. Another report from a local angler who showed us a picture of a 7lb trout his brother caught along this same stretch of the river gives us an idea how big some of the Brookies are on this river. No word of bright salmon yet but I have been talking to a few locals who are preparing to start angling for them and we will probably hear this week of bright salmon being caught. The conditions are right and they should be here any time if not right now.
        I also would like to mention an effort by the Miramichi Salmon Association as it is of great importance to our salmon fishing industry .The Miramichi Salmon Association is making an effort to support our local lodges get through this covid19 time. They are putting together an auction where you can bid on prime salmon pools you may have thought about in the past. I encourage you to check this out on the MSA website as it is a great effort by our local conservation group to help the industry during these tough economic times. On top of all the other things MSA is trying to do for our rivers and salmon they are adding this to their work load. It is encouraging to see this happen and a great opportunity to fish prime waters.
            Expect to hear more on bright salmon soon. I will update as I hear more.

​Thursday May 21st, 2020 River Report.
      Things are shaping up to be quite good for this coming weekend. The forecast is for warm weather, our rivers are holding making the tributaries good for canoeing, and we continue to hear good comments on the fishing.
        You can really see things greening up along the shorelines and the poplar and maples are budding and coming to life. Fiddleheads are being picked on a daily bases now.
        Salmon (Kelts) are still being caught below Blackville in the Quarryville area. The golden eagle being one of the more popular flies. With the water temperatures raising the trout and bass are much more anxious to feed and the fishing as a whole is continuing to get better. We are hearing of anglers catching trout on a daily bases now. Bass fishing has been quite good especially in the Miramichi City area but are also being caught further up the South West Miramichi towards Doyles brook and Quarryville.
       Things are dry and fires were not permitted the last I looked. I would check on this depending on the zone you are in to make sure. Especially those who are canoeing and camping in the backcountry. This is a great time of year to be on our rivers. Enjoy and be safe.

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       Friday May 15th, 2020 River Report.
   Just a quick posting going into the long weekend. River levels are good and some people are even starting to do some shore fishing. Tributaries are great for those who want to get out with their canoes. Salmon and trout are still being caught below Blackville and anglers are picking up Bass in the Quarryville area.
   The forecast is showing a little rain for tomorrow but nothing major. Temperatures are on the rise and today couldn't have been better on the river. It is noticeable how things are in the early stages of turning green and lots of buds are sprouting on the hardwoods, especially our Maple trees.
   This is the weekend a lot of people begin angling, canoeing, opening camps, etc here on the Miramichi for the season. It certainly is shaping up weather wise to be a good one. Enjoy the weekend. Be safe.

Sunday May 10th, 2020 River Report.
   Things are quiet here today in Blackville. I think the continuous snow all day yesterday and into last night along with the 4" - 6" blanket of snow on the ground has most people inside where it is warm. No doubt there is the odd angler on the river but most will probably wait for the snow to melt. This snow won't last long once the sun hits it.
    Rivers continue to be up and word of the odd salmon  being hooked this past week by some anglers was mentioned at the tackle shop. Expect we will have a two day lull in angling and then it will pick up again.
    We will see a facelift along the Miramichi as this snow melts. Things will green up even more. Those warmer sunny days are coming and with it the urge to be on the river will be even more enticing. Our canoe bookings are already picking up as people are planning their annual canoe runs on the tributaries. Water levels are high and canoeing should be good on the tributaries this Spring.
    The forecast is showing more rain this coming week along with sunny days. I will post more as things change along the river.


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               Tuesday May 5th, 2020 River Report
   River levels are running quite high here in the Miramichi watershed. Last Fridays rain brought the rivers up over the weekend. More rain Sunday night, Monday, and today will continue to keep the rivers at Spring levels. Haven't heard of many salmon being caught in the last two days. They were catching them though over the weekend.
    The slideshow on the left gives you an idea of how much snow is in the area. The snowbank on the side of the dirt road was taken along the Dungarvon Road here in Blackville. The picture with part of my finger in it is of the Dungarvon River. The other picture is from the veranda of my cabin on the Renous River. You can see snow on the shore below the cabin. These pictures were taken Sunday afternoon. So quite a bit of snow left to melt north of the Miramichi River.
     Trees are starting to bud and the snow today will really green the lawns up over the next couple of days. Will post as I here more. Be safe.

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Sunday April 26th, 2020 River Report.
   Yesterday proved to be quite successful for quite a few anglers. Lots of reports from anglers catching large numbers of salmon. Being the first day of the season no one really new what to expect. Almost everyone we talked to were hooking salmon. Some of the boats were hooking 20 plus salmon and that was before 2:00 in the afternoon.
   There is no denying the smile that shows on an anglers face whether he has caught one salmon or a much higher count. We could hear the motor boats on the river all day yesterday from the tackle shop making it feel more normal for our community here in Blackville. It has been so quiet on the river. These reports were all from anglers fishing here in the Blackville area. We will start hearing more from other parts of the river over the next few days.
   One of the comments from a few of the anglers was the absence of large numbers of boats on the shoreline in front of some of the big camps and lodges along the river. Sometimes these lodges will have upwards of 20 boats in front of the lodges ready to go with sportsman from all over the world. We have been hearing from quite a few salmon fisherman especially from state side who are missing their annual fishing trip to the Miramichi. It doesn't make it any easier to read reports like this of excellent salmon fishing on the river. It certainly is a wake up call for those of us who took our angling for granted. I am sure when this is all over we will have a much different appreciation for the experience of being free to fish on our rivers.
      So, a quick message to our friends to the south and internationally . Seeing the various fishing parties after each weeks turnover at the lodges arrive at our tackle shop is always a pleasure and we really miss catching up on how everyone is and seeing you at the begining of our salmon season. We hope you are well and safe from this covid19 pandemic. Salmon fisherman are really a small but very unique and special group in the angling world. We really miss sharing this unique experience with you. I am optomistic we will see you in 2021. Take care.
       The fly's of choice yesterday were the Christmas Tree ,Renous Special and Blue Smelt.
       River levels are dropping so be careful of the rocks and bars. I will update as things change and we hear more on river conditions. Be safe.


​Friday April 24th, 2020 River Report.
   Good News!!!!Restrictions were lifted today in N.B on fishing. Our phone started ringing this afternoon and it has been non stop. The excitement is unreal. It has been a long 6-7 weeks of being cooped up in our homes and not being able to do anything. Norma and I had to comment on how good this news is for the locals who live along the river. We cain 't help to grin from ear to ear at some of the people who have been by the tackle shop. One young man who stopped by to pick up fishing licenses for his father, uncle, and himself, commented that his father and uncle were like having two bad young lads wanting to go fishing. They couldn't wait for him to take them to the river.
    River levels are dropping and we heard of someone hitting bottom damaging the prop and leg of their motor. This was further upriver in the Doaktown area. It looks good here in the Blackville area but be careful as it may be low here too.
      The municipal park was opened today here in Blackville so access to the boat ramp is possible.
      We are trying to make arrangements to open the tackle shop tomorrow. We may have to restrict people in the shop. At this point we have been leaving things outside for people to pick up. As we learn more on the changes we will keep you informed.
      The forecast is for nice weather this weekend. For those of you heading to the river......enjoy, be safe, and best of luck angling.



Sunday April 19th, 2020 River Report
   When I downloaded these pictures I couldn't help to notice how little snow there is in the background of the pictures. Don't let that deceive you. There remains quite a bit of snow in the area.
    The upper and lower slideshows are pictures taken today from the N.B Trail going through Blackville. The smaller river is Bartholomew River and the larger river is the Miramichi. This years ice out didn't seem to do much damage along the shoreline. As you can see, everything is quite clean along the rivers. The same applies to current conditions on the river. It would be really good fishing right now.
     The 3 pictures of Dr's Island give you a good idea of river levels. The river is dropping but not down so Marilyn's Rock (named after Marilyn Munroe) is showing. So boating is still quite good. There are a few boats on the river but nothing like what we would normally see.
     The rainfall this Spring hasn't been what we normally would get so the rivers are dropping. There isn't much rain in the forecast and with cool evenings our snowmelt isn't creating any major raise in the rivers.
      All in all, great fishing conditions, but fishing restrictions for this year are keeping us off the river. We can only be patient and see what comes in early May. Take care and be safe. 

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Friday April 17th, 2020 River Report.
    Normally I would be reporting numbers of salmon caught and the fly of choice for the last two days but not today. I can give you a sense though of how things look here on the river.
    Norma and I took a drive last night to check the rivers out . I need to say it looked very inviting and the lure to want to be out in a boat angling is very difficult to suppress. Both the Bartholomew and Miramichi here in the Blackville area are running high but no where near flood levels. Both seemed to be quite clear with no signs of grass, ice or debris floating down them.
      The angling conditions look very good in this area. We just couldn't help to notice though the absence of boats and anglers on the river. Never in our lives have we not seen early fishing and boating activity this time of year on the river. It certainly isn't normal for our community. You could only explain it as having a silent, quiet appearance.
     I have to share an experience we are having at the tackle shop. In our area there are a lot of older riverman who have been Spring guiding all of their lives. They are watching the river and know with the conditions being what they are what fly to be using, the length of anchor rope required, what stretches of the%

Saturday June 22nd, 2019 River Report.
                             I put a group of canoers in the river yesterday afternoon around 3:00PM. Though it was raining this group were not deterred from making their annual run on the Miramichi. The river looked good and water temperatures were quite cold to the touch. The rain Thursday night and Friday has brought a nice change to the river. One text this morning from a guide and pool owner in the Upper Blackville area suggests it should make for nice salmon fishing. While river levels were on the rise last night one of his anglers hooked a large salmon but unfortunately didn't land it. Although the grilse seem to be outnumbering the salmon in the river right now the salmon we are seeing are big fish. These are not always easy to land. Some just seem to have a mind of their own and cooperating with the angler isn't it.
                             Other reports from Thursday indicate salmon, grilse, and shad being caught here in the Blackville area. Actually, there is quite a few shad in the Blackville and Upper Blackville area right now and for those who angle them they can be a lot of fun. Not as much fight as a salmon but still a nice fight for that first run. Another bonus is you can keep a shad.
                                  The river levels should start dropping today and with that we sometimes see salmon taking better on the fly. This is a beautiful time to be fishing our rivers right now. Most of the anglers we are talking to coming through the tackle shop are commenting on how healthy things look along the river. The trees and foliage have those rich colours only seen this time of year. Not to mention a river with an abundance of bass, good salmon returns, and a nice run of shad all for the angling.
                                       I took Brennan our 12 year old grandson out trout fishing Monday night. He has been showing an interest for the past couple of weeks so I took him to a trout hole I tend to fish not far from our house. We spent some time going over the fly rod and the basics of casting on the grass before going to the river. His first cast he hooked a 6" trout. Before the evening was over, and we only spent 2 hours on the river ,we had hooked 3 trout . Tuesday night his bicycle was here at the house and the trout rod was gone. I noticed this around 3:00 PM shortly after school would be out. He couldn't wait to get to the river. I am telling this story because we are seeing a number of parents this season who are getting their kids out on the river. We tend to see this generation engaged in cell phones, computers, etc and not interested in the river and fishing. For those parents who stopped fishing after hook and release was mandated for salmon angling they are finding it quite enjoyable to be back on the river. I guess we have to ask ourselves, just because we cain't keep a salmon, should we stop angling even though we have some of the best fishing for bass, trout and shad which we can keep? This generation of kids want to fish. Lets get them on our rivers. You soon will find out our old values may not be that important to them at all. These kids are much more aware of our environment than most of us are. Lets give them the chance to be future Stewarts of our rivers.
                                       I am off to the cabin on the Renous for the weekend. Will not be reporting for a few days. As we get back next week I will get back to my updates. Enjoy the weekend.


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                    Monday June 17th, 2019 River Report.
                             I was able to do a follow up today on whether the Shad are this far upriver. I was curious as some anglers enjoy these fish and like to know when they are in the Blackville and Upper Blackville area. Normally I will confirm this information from a couple of guys upriver, and Randall Connors had called me to join him at his farm for a morning of fishing so I took him up on it. He brought along his 5 year old son Ivan who is a very fortunate youngster. Ivan can already run the boat motor and fish using a fly rod. Of course growing up on the banks of the river is a bit of incentive.
                           We left the farm and headed down river to Randalls lower pool. It was a beautiful morning with the sun out and very little cloud cover. The first thing we saw on an island to our left was a Bald Eagle. Then on river right we saw another Bald Eagle. Both were large mature birds who much like us were looking for fish. Randall claims there is a Bald Eagle about every 4-5 miles along the river now.
                            As we reached the pool and kitted up to fish for Salmon Randall pointed out how the island had changed and the run was much faster on his side of the river, all to his advantage. Saturday night was the last time a bright salmon was hooked in his pool and he was anxious to see if there were more in the pool. He was telling me how these bright salmon haven't been showing at all but are there. He also noticed how they will lie in the pool and not show any interest at times in a fly. That seemed to be the case this morning. We were really there to see if any shad was this far up the river so after a few passes through the pool we motored upriver and did a float down through the pool. Sure enough, we counted 8-10 salmon and grilse and lots of shad. Excited to see the pool again we did another pass and counted more shad. Once we verified there were shad in the area we decide to motor as far up as the Upper Blackville bridge and float down through the different pools. The bridge pool showed 1 grilse and lots of shad. Further downriver at Randalls upper pool we couldn't count the shad. There was just to many.
                    To top the morning off we also watched a groundhog swimming across the river. He was not a very fast swimmer and we discussed how they must make prey for the Bald Eagles.
                      After talking to anglers today at the shop we know they are also catching the odd bright salmon upriver in Doaktown and further up towards Boiestown. For whatever reason they aren't showing a whole lot at this time and in Randalls case his pool seems to be producing more in the evenings as they hooked 3 the other evening. The river is up due to last weeks rain and the water temperatures today around noon were in the mid 60's. 
                           I really enjoy this stretch of the river. It is easy wading and your back cast is free of any obstacles. It is always a pleasure to spend the best part of a day on the river with locals like Randall. They grew up on the banks of the river and have farmed its shores for generations. This local knowledge is a very valuable asset as they understand how any change in the river, temperatures, water levels, etc can impact the fishing. Thanks again Randall. Really appreciate hanging out on the river with you and your son Ivan. 



 Saturday June 15th, 2019 River Report.
                           For two weeks now or a little better we have been hearing of early bright Salmon being caught mainly on the lower section here of the Miramichi. Generally it is spotty as this time of year the only people on the river fishing are those select anglers who want to hook into a Rocky Brook Salmon or bright June Salmon. With few anglers around the reports are few. Things always tend to change quite fast though around mid June and as the lodges and clubs start opening we get more reports of Salmon being hooked.
                     Yesterday, I heard of a number of Salmon being hooked below Blackville. This morning I received a call from an old friend in the Upper Blackville area to tell me they are doing quite well in his pool. Last night they hooked into 3 bright Salmon. All large Salmon and what a joy the anglers had bringing them in. Prior to last nights catch they have been watching a good number of Salmon lying in the pool but wouldn't take. These are early bright Salmon just coming in from a long migration from Greenland. We are also hearing from people who are on the river of quite a few Salmon jumping as they move upriver.
                               From the reports I am getting there seems to be a healthy run of Salmon on at this time. This is good news for the Miramichi and maybe the work of our conservation groups with Greenland is finally paying off. 
                       River levels are good for wading in most pools, the water temperatures are cool, and with Salmon showing like they are we should have  good reports over the next few days.
                               There has also been a report on Shad here in the Blackville area. I have a local guy that I need to see who will verify that for me.
                               So, things are shaping up to be good fishing for the next while, we can only hope this will be early signs of a great season here on the Miramichi. Time to get your rods out and get on the river. Enjoy the angling.




​Tuesday June 11th ,2019 River Report.
                           I had the pleasure last week to spend some time with and old friend canoeing the Miramichi from Halfmoon to the Norrad Bridge in Boiestown. The last part of the week I spent on the Renous. Lots of river time. I have to comment that this old friend absolutely loves to fish and be on the river. He spends a lot of time on the river salmon fishing and is considered one of the best salmon fisherman in our area. We had a trip of a lifetime. Water levels were dropping so we spent most of our time paddling to get down river to better river levels. The upper part is quite fast and with the river dropping we wanted to get below Push Be Damn.
                       Lots of hatches and we could see trout coming to the top feeding within minutes of putting in at Halfmoon. The pollen was plentiful and the shoreline in places was completely yellow. Bald Eagles and Hawks along with Kingfishers kept us company all along the river. This time of year is always alive with wildlife along our local rivers.
                            Although salmon and sea run trout have been caught in the lower section of the river we didn't see much on the upper section. It was like they haven't made it up that far yet. We talked to one club caretaker and he said they will be opening for this weekend and they generally start fishing around mid June. So we may have been a bit early.
                          Here on the lower section of the river there has been word of salmon being caught in Quarryville and also salmon showing in the Upper Blackville area.
                        I also talked to a couple of Bass fisherman who were doing quite well. They said they quit fishing after landing 100 Bass between the two of them.
                        More anglers are starting to get their kits ready to start salmon fishing for the season so as we get more people on the river the reports will start coming in about salmon being caught. It is a bit early but things are going to change fast.


  Sunday June 2nd,2019 River Report.
                           I initially did my river report earlier this morning and while having a late breakfast Norma and I were discussing the weeks fishing and changes on the river. After giving it some thought I felt it time to acknowledge a very small group of anglers who are really part of an elite group in my mind. This is a group of anglers that if offered a trip to New York, London, Paris, etc they would have to decline as they could not be anywhere else other than on the Miramichi chasing bright early run salmon and sea run trout. Most of these guys are usually locals but a fair number are camp owners along the river who are lured by the river and its early season angling. It is really interesting how some of them know it is that time of year to be on the river.  Years of running a local tackle shop have given us the opportunity to meet most of these characters and get to know their annual habits. How is it that they know the time is right to start fishing early run salmon? All of a sudden they will show up at the tackle shop for a salmon license, purchase a few flies and other odds and ends and then off they go. Sometimes it may be only hours and other times it may be a few days but then we hear they have hooked into a bright Rocky Brook Salmon. Yes, a very select group of salmon fisherman who I have the utmost respect for and once again tip my hat too. Hats off guys. If you are reading this know that you are being recognized as part of a group of very select salmon fisherman on the Miramichi.
             Getting that out of the way now to the past weeks river report. This is probably one of the most exciting times for some anglers on the Miramichi. There is always that small group who are engaged in the river and are anticipating the return of bright salmon and sea run trout. It is felt by some the ultimate angling experience on the Miramichi is hooking into large sea run trout or an early bright salmon. Some of this small group feel it is time ,while others spend enough time on the river watching the changes in river levels, blossoms on the trees ,insect hatches, etc and know it is the time to get out there. For this group that time has finally arrived. There have been numerous accounts of both sea run trout and bright salmon being caught here on the S.W Miramichi in this past week. We noticed earlier in the week some anglers using dry flies and being successful for sea run trout. These are the best of the best for some anglers and hooking into a Rocky Brook Salmon is the ultimate experience.
                River levels are dropping and we will soon find some of the tributaries will not be as accessible in the near future. Rain will help and hopefully we will be able to get another few weeks of good canoeing in. Our trees in the last week have really come alive. It is hard to believe how fast things will green up in one week.
                If you are spending any amount of time canoeing and fishing it is advisable now to bring fly repellent as the hatches are starting. A great time of year to be on our rivers. Be safe and enjoy.




​Sunday May 26th, 2019 River Report.
                         Reports from anglers around the tackle shop this weekend indicate  changes on the river. We were told a few salmon are still being caught upriver in the Blissfield area but it has slowed down in the Quarryville section of the river. Fewer large trout and hardly any bass are being caught compared to the last couple of weeks. The slow down seemed to start last Thursday and hasn't picked up yet. We did have some great angling for a couple of weeks in this area. There is word that sea run trout are being caught upriver in the Boiestown area.
                          The focus now will be on Sea Run Trout. We are already having anglers asking about them who are out there hoping to get into a big one. No word yet of any bright salmon on the S.W Miramichi. There was mention of one being caught on the N.W Miramichi.
                              River levels remain good for canoeing the tributaries and we had canoers on the Dungarvon who said the fiddle heads were plentiful. We are not hearing of many brookies being caught on the tributaries yet. Most people are canoeing the tributaries and not focusing on the trout fishing. We will soon hear of anglers picking up nice trout as we are approaching that time.
                              A word of caution in regards to camp fires. The woods is really quite dry even though there has been a lot of rain. Things are starting to green up and the leaves are slowly coming out but a lot of underbrush is very dry. This is a time when forest fires can get out of hand very fast.
                                   Enjoy the fishing. This is one of the best times of year to get your gear out and get on the rivers. I will report as I hear more.


​Tuesday May 21st, 2019 River Report.
                        It was an interesting long weekend in that the weather was really not that great for angling, canoeing, camping, etc, but a lot of people enjoyed it anyway. We were quite busy outfitting people with canoes and shuttling them to the drop off and take out points. Our tributaries in this area have perfect river levels at this time for canoeing and quite a few people are taking advantage of the good conditions.
                       Whether canoeing, fishing, or enjoying the abundance of fiddle heads that are available everyone we talked to seemed to be anxious to enjoy the outdoors regardless of the wet, cooler weather.
                         Most of the lodges have seen the last of the sportsman here to chase our Black Salmon. Though there are probably a few late salmon still lingering in the river most of the anglers now are concentrating on the trout and bass. Here is how a typical day looked last week for anglers. Salmon were mainly caught in the mornings while trout were hooked easier in the afternoons, the evenings then produced some extremely good bass fishing. There seems to be mixed reports on the bass fishing but our customers fishing with flies have been very successful. This has been a trend for over a week now. While other areas are not producing very many bass and some say the water is to cold, etc the Main South West Miramichi in the Quarryville area has had what one customer termed "ridiculous fishing". We have seen videos and pictures of the river boiling with bass in this area along with some ear to ear smiles. I guess it is important to know that depending where you are fishing the results can be quite different. Many of our locals find they can put their boats in here at the park in Blackville, enjoy the boat ride to Quarryville, and have great trout and bass fishing for the day. One really cain't complain about that for a day on the river.

​Thursday May 16th, 2019 River Report.
                   Cold, wet, windy conditions haven't kept all anglers off the river. Though conditions haven't been the greatest those who are braving the elements are having some success. Rewards of salmon, good trout, and bass continue to be the talk by those coming into the tackle shop for gear. There seem to be good pockets of time during the day that produce quite well.
                  We continue to hear of salmon still showing upriver and here on the lower section they are being caught in reasonable numbers for this time of year. My impression from anglers and guides are that there is a much better showing of larger trout this year. Almost everyone we talk to who are angling for salmon are quite happy with the trout they are catching. If you are fishing in the Quarryville area the norm now is salmon, trout, and bass on the fly.
                  We have rain in the forecast and a gradual rise in temperatures. Most anglers feel the fishing will continue to be good for awhile yet. For those who like to chase the trout now is a good time to be on the river. Dress warm and enjoy the fishing.


​Tuesday May 14th, 2019 River Report.
               We continue to hear of salmon being caught. Not the large numbers as before but it hasn't been that bad in the last day or so. The odd angler is actually doing quite well. Once again ,this week seems to be showing large numbers of trout being caught while fishing salmon. Quite a few anglers are also hooking into bass in the Quarryville area. In fact it is really good fishing at times.
              The weather is cold and cloudy and tomorrow we have rain and possible snow in the forecast. Dress warm and enjoy the fishing.

​Monday May 6th, 2019 River Report.
              Just a quick update on the river. I did an early morning report yesterday and up to Saturday we were having quite good fishing. Through the day yesterday we were hearing from more anglers coming into the tackles shop that they were catching fewer salmon. Today that trend seems to continue. There are some lucky anglers out there that seem to be doing O.K but others not so good. This seems to be following the up and down trend that we have been experiencing in the past couple of weeks. We still have salmon upriver so there will continue to be salmon coming downriver for some time.
             This is salmon fishing and as things change I will keep my reports updated. Rain is in the forecast for tomorrow. Lets see if that will change it up.

​Sunday May 5th 2019 River Report.
           Fishing conditions are quite good at this time. A lot of anglers are catching salmon and we are getting more reports of higher numbers of large trout being hooked. It isn't uncommon to hear from anglers here at the tackle shop who have caught a dozen plus salmon in the morning and were going out again for the afternoon. Lots of fisherman on the river. We did a fly casting course yesterday and would see a minimum of three boats at any given time fishing within our view.
            Water temperatures remain quite cold and the salmon continue to stay low in the river. Those having the most success seem to be fishing with fast sinking lines. We still have a lot of snow in the woods and the melt is keeping the river temperatures cold. Our daily temperatures are getting higher so that can change quite fast. It has been a nice couple of days on the river and we have more in the forecast.
             The buds are becoming more noticeable on the trees and things are changing fast as each day brings change. It is a great time to be on the Miramichi. Looking forward to this week. Everything is coming to life and the fishing couldn't be better. 

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Wednesday May 1st 2019, River Report.
          By Friday of last week the angling was quite good. Rain on Saturday raised the river and by Sunday water levels were high enough to have grass, etc floating down it. The rivers started clearing by Monday and a few salmon were caught. Today the reports were more positive and we seem to be back into good fishing again. Along with salmon being landed we are also hearing of large trout being hooked. The smelts are in at Quarryville and some people are fishing them. The forecast is showing warmer days ahead so angling should continue to be good.
          We are now seeing more of the seasoned salmon fisherman on the river. It is always good to see the guys back for another season. Good weather over the next few days should yield positive results. I will post as I hear more. Enjoy the fishing.

​Friday April 26th, 2019 River Report.
   End of day report.
  It was a good day on the river today. A larger number of anglers are on the river and almost everyone coming into the tackle shop were reporting hooking into salmon. Even this evening trucks are still going into the park here in Blackville to unload boats and get the remaining evening fishing in. One group told of hooking upwards of 19 salmon today, while others are not so lucky, they are hooking salmon. Popular flies are Golden Eagle, Black Ghost, and pink colored flies. I haven't replaced my pictures yet  but hope to get new ones soon. The river is really quite a bit lower now than the existing pictures show. Expect tomorrow to be another good day.

Just a quick morning report. The river continues to drop, in fact it is becoming quite fishable. I am surprised at just how much it has dropped in the last two days. Forcast is for sunny and warm today with rain tomorrow. Expect we will see good fishing today and over the weekend. Will continue to report any updates.

​Thursday April 25th, 2019 River Report
     Addition to todays report - Things are quickly changing on the river. This afternoon we had quite a few anglers in telling of hooking into large salmon. One angler had hooked into 4 himself. Others were telling of hooking and losing salmon. The popular fly at this time is the Golden Eagle. The rivers have been dropping and are low enough now for the salmon to take. As word gets out more anglers will start launching their boats and we will continue to hear stories of hooking into the big ones. I will report as we hear more.

​I checked the river last night at the park here in Blackville and  it is slowly dropping. Both the Bartholomew and the SW Miramichi are showing signs of a gradual drop in water levels. More boaters are starting to get out on the river but still not hearing much yet on salmon being hooked. We need to remember that it usually takes a few days to a week for the river to clear and drop after the ice starts moving. With so much rain and the large amounts of snow in the woods we can expect it will be longer this year for angling conditions to get better. Snow on the ground here this morning. Much better weather in the forcast for tomorrow and weekend. Hopefully the weekend will bring positive angling news.

​Monday April 22nd, 2019 River Report.
    The slideshow contains pictures I took Sunday evening at the park in Blackville and the old train bridge on the Bartholomew River facing down river towards the Miramichi. As you can see the river is quite high. This morning when I looked it was still quite high with no ice or debris that I could see. It is slowly dropping but continues to remain high.We have more rain in the forcast for tomorrow. I wouldn't be surprised to hear of boaters out in the river soon. I will post updates as I hear more.​

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LIVE... ​Webcam from Bullock's Lodge on the Southwest Miramichi near Boisetown

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Real Time Hydrometric Data, DFO, Province of New Brunswick

• Northwest River ​at Trout Brook
• Little Southwest River at Lyttleton
• Catamaran Brook at Repap Road Bridge
• Main Southwest River at Blackville

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Miramichi River Environmental Assessment Committee Flow Data

• ​Southwest Miramichi River at Doaktown
• ​Little Southwest River  at Upper Oxbow
• Northwest Miramichi River at Wayerton