The incomparable Eagle River is born in the wilderness highland lakes of Labrador's Mealy Mountains. A large and brawling river, the Eagle flows through rugged canyons and seemingly impassable falls for 120 rough and tumble miles before emptying into Sandwich Bay on the Labrador Sea. The laws of natural selection have lead to the evolution of a strain of exceptionally strong salmon capable of mounting this difficult journey to the Highland spawning grounds. Many well-traveled anglers consider the Eagle fish the hardest fighting Atlantic salmon in the world.

The season starts with runs of large salmon in mid to late June, most 11-18 pounds, and salmon 20-25lbs are not uncommon. In recent years the large salmon population seems quite healthy and we have been seeing them in the 30lb range. (sonar soundings in 2007-2008 resulted in sightings of salmon estimated near 40 lbs!). July and August boasts incredible catch rates with vast runs of Grilse weighing in from 5-7 lbs, with a solid mix of large salmon still in the 11-18 pound range. Fresh grilse continue to enter the river right to the end of the angling season in mid September. Mid August through to September also presents the opportunity to catch sea-run brook trout as they return to the river from summer feeding. Great fun can then be had angling for both salmon and sea run brookies.

While you are permitted to retain up to 2 small salmon (grilse) while staying at our lodge. We are strong advocates of live release. It is very important that anglers practice live release, and do it responsibly. A well thought out and planned live release gives salmon a very high chance of survival even in tough water conditions. Please, watch this video from the Atlantic Salmon Federation and always be prepared to release a salmon the right way.

Live Release - for the Wild Atlantic Salmon from Atlantic Salmon Federation on Vimeo.