Our rivers and lakes are calling!

A wise person once said, ‘A bad day fishing is better than a good day at the office’. Whether you’re fishing for trout, bass or salmon, it’s a sentiment we can all get behind. This 3-day itinerary will have you exploring some of the best fishing holes and rivers on the Island. While we can help you find the best places to cast a line, it’ll be up to you to see what you can land and which fish tales you’ll choose to embellish. Be sure to download and review the Nova Scotia Angler’s Handbook for all rules and regulations.

Day 1

Baddeck to Baddeck River Bridge – 8km

Start your day before the sun comes out and head out on the water. Fishing on the Bras d’Or Lake near the Baddeck River Bridge on the Cabot Trail will see you casting for a variety of trout species, striped bass and perch. Be sure to bring your camera to share photos so you can brag to your friends at home! Choose from a great variety of nearby accommodations.

Grab a cup of coffee and make the short drive to the Baddeck River Bridge on the Cabot Trail
Cast your line and test your skill on the water
Treat yourself to lunch at the Herring Choker, only a short drive from your location
Enjoy a lobster supper in Baddeck at the Lakeside Restaurant or the Baddeck Lobster Suppers
Watch the sun go down over the Bras d’Or Lake as you get ready for tomorrow’s adventure
Get a good night’s rest at any of the great accommodations in Baddeck

Day 2

Baddeck to Whycocomagh – 38km

Day 2 starts off exploring Whycocomagh. Whycocomagh is home to some of the best trout (brown, rainbow and speckled trout) and striped bass fishing on the Bras d’Or Lake and, if you’re extra adventurous, be sure to drive the extra distance along the Bras d’Or Lake to the River Denys Basin. This basin is one of Cape Breton Island’s best-kept fishing secrets.

Flyfishing along the Mull River in Mabou, Cape Breton Island in the fall.

Depart Baddeck and drive west on the Trans Canada Highway to Whycogomagh
Enjoy a great morning fishing for trout or bass
Have a late breakfast or early lunch at Charlene’s Bayside Restaurant and Café
Explore the River Denys Basin on the Bras d’Or Lake
Stay at one of the great accommodations in Whycocomagh

Day 3

Whycocomagh to Margaree – 58km

Day 3 brings you to one of the most famous fishing rivers in Canada. The world-renowned Margaree River is famous for its idyllic beauty and salmon fishing. We recommend working with a guide when fishing on this designated Canadian Heritage River. Guides will help keep informed of all the rules and regulations while fishing on the Margaree while putting you in some of the best pools.

An angler fishes for salmon at the Ross Bridge along the Margaree River in the fall.

Leave Whycocomagh and head to Margaree
Cast for salmon in one of the many salmon pools along the Margaree
Grab a bite to eat with a late breakfast and coffee at the Dancing Goat
Explore a new pool on the Margaree
Be sure to brag about the one that got away
Treat yourself to an amazing supper at the Woodroad Restaurant or the Island Sunset