Fly Fishing On The Mckenzie River In Labrador, Canada

Labrador is located on the northeastern edge of Canada and this is where one finds the McKenzie River. The destination is remote and accessible only by floatplane. The crystal clear waters are framed by a mature thick forest that is home to many species of wildlife. This is truly the "get away from it all" location for the perfect fishing trip.

The river's desolate area and limited access ensures the fish population is plentiful for great fly fishing trips. This is a strictly catch and release region though some fly fishing outfitters may allow a trophy fish to be mounted. Anglers can fish by wading into the water or by boat. Because the area is so remote, and access is so limited, you will never be overrun by crowds, and because of the limited number of fishermen, this area produces some of the largest Brook Trout and Landlocked Salmon in the world. The largest Landlocked on record came from the McKenzie watershed, weighing in at 22 lbs.

Five species of fish are indigenous to this region and caught regularly. Brook Trout, Landlocked Salmon, Lake Trout ,Whitefish, and Northern Pike. While most of the fish are smaller, those trophy sized catches do exist, and will continue to be caught as long as all anglers obey the rules and release what they catch.

There are a few outfitters that offer accommodations and will help you plan your trip. There are also local guides available to ensure that your trip is not only enjoyable, but that you are actually able to catch some fish. In addition, since fly fishing requires specific fly fishing rods, as well as gear for wading in the river, etc, if you should forget to bring essential equipment, it can be purchased from the outfitters in the area. Other equipment such as lures and streamers are also available, since the locals know what works best in this remote area. On site cabins are available that sleep 2 to 4 people depending on the camp. Modern plumbing is available, and fresh linens are provided. Meals are served at the main lodge, and shoreline lunches are included while fishing. Fishing schedules are customized by each angler. There is a guide provided for every 2 fishermen, as well as a boat, if that should be needed for deeper waters. Some fishing outfitters will provide all the necessary tackle while others expect anglers to bring their own. Tackle other than fly fishing gear, is not permitted on the McKenzie, but is sometimes ok for use on nearby lakes.

Anglers should be prepared to bring 5-9lb. fly rods, spare rod, fly vest and accessories, waders, wading staff, polarized glasses, layered clothing, rain gear, and a sun/weather hat. Since this is a catch and release area, cameras are also a must have. How else can you show off your trophy catch? Besides this is a beautiful remote area with still sparse accommodations. It is becoming internationally known, so it is possible that it may be a few years before you can return.