Essential Gear for Fishing in New Brunswick Rivers
Yes, fishing in the rivers of Canada, in particular, in the stunning province of New Brunswick, is an angler's dream come true. With its abundant freshwater resources and breathtaking natural beauty, New Brunswick offers a completely unique fishing experience. Having said that, in order to make the best of your angling adventure, it's essential to equip yourself with the proper gear.
Here’s what I consider essential gear that you need when fishing in Canadian rivers – in particular, in the captivating province of New Brunswick.
Fishing rod and reel:
When it comes to selecting the appropriate fishing rod and feel is paramount for a successful fishing trip. When targeting species from salmon, trout, and smallmouth bass – opt for a medium to medium light-spinning rod. It will make a world of difference. The length should be between 6-7 feet, providing you with the necessary sensitivity and casting distance to target your ideal game. Pair the rod with a high-quality spinning reel, and you can ensure a smooth drag system for battling fish.
Fishing line:
Choose your preferred fishing line wisely, as it's the crucial link between you and your desired game fish. For freshwater fishing in New Brunswick, monofilament or fluorocarbon lines with a test strength of 6 to 12 pounds work well. These lines offer good overall sensitivity, low visibility, and sufficient strength to handle most species of fish you'll encounter.
Fishing hooks and terminal tackle:
Make sure that you carry a variety of fishing hooks in several sizes in order to accommodate various bait and target species. Circle hooks are exceptional for catch-and-release fishing, as they minimize damage to the fish. Pack an assortment of sinkers and split-shot weights to adjust your bait's depth and keep it fairly steady in freshwater currents. Swivels, snaps, and leaders are also essential for rigging your tackle and preventing twisted lines.
Fishing apparel and accessories:
While fishing, it's important to stay comfortable and protected from the elements. Here are some essentials in terms of apparel and accessories:
Waders: It's beneficial to invest in a good pair of waders that are breathable and will also keep you dry while you wade through the water. Neoprene waders are ideal for colder waters.
Fishing vests or tackle bags: Make sure to carry all of your essentials, such as extra tackle, line, hooks, and tools in a fishing vest or tackle bag. This ensures easy access to your gear throughout the day.
Hat and sunglasses: Protect yourself from the sun's UV rays with a wide-brimmed hat and polarized sunglasses. The sunglasses help you to spot fish in the water by drastically reducing glare.
Insect repellent: inspects can be very persistent near the water, so pack a reliable insect repellent to keep bugs at bay.
Sunscreen:
Apply your sunscreen generously to shield your skin from harmful UV rays, even on cloudy days. Trust me – there is nothing worse than underestimating the power of the sun. Just because it isn’t as sunny as you aspect doesn’t mean the sun won’t do a number on your skin.
Fishing in the rivers of New Brunswick provides an unforgettable experience, allowing you to connect with nature and reel in some exceptional fish. Don't forget to dress appropriately and protect yourself from the elements with comfortable fishing apparel and accessories. Trust me – it makes all the difference!


