This summer, fishing will probably be one of the outdoor activities that’s a better fit with social distancing measures. Let’s take a look at how people can enjoy this magnificent playground known as the Diable river.

Seasoned fishers can rejoice. While the activities of the Club des Moucheurs EnDiablés fly-fishing club have been impacted, particularly by the cancellation of all Fishing Festival activities due to the directives of the Ministry of Forest, Wildlife and Parks (MFFP), fly fishers will still be able to practise their favourite sport.

Newcomers, too, will be able to take this opportunity to get started in the sport, which provides such a special, enjoyable, natural outing.

“It’s possible to practice this sport while respecting the social distancing measures,” says Denis Landreville, board member and co-founder of the Club des Moucheurs EnDiablés. “Of course, fishing while wading is still simpler than fishing from a canoe, but both are possible, because the watercraft are more than two metres in length,” he notes.

Starting the adventure

Fly fishing is often considered to be a sport, as it should be. The fishing holes can be hard to access and the shallow waters of mountain rivers allow the fish to spot those trying to hook them. As a result, it’s harder to catch them. We can reassure the fish, however, that the majority of fly fishers practice “catch-and-release”, so that other fishers can enjoy the sport in turn.

In addition to a valid fishing licence, the would-be fisher must pay a SEPAQ entrance fee to the areas reserved for fly-fishing. Equipment is also required, to enjoy this activity safely. Denis Landreville explains that the beginner should expect to pay about $500 for a full set of durable fly-fishing equipment which includes pants, boots, fishing rod, reel, lines, a bag and so on.

Denis insists that the word “durable” is important, explaining that it’s more an investment than an expense. It’s worth mentioning that for fishing while wading, basic equipment will cost a little less.

Getting your bearings

One thing that’s a must: the canoe-kayak fishing map will let you figure out where you are and where you should go. It indicates the entry points for fishing and the canoe put-ins on the Diable river. On the map, the sections reserved for fly-fishing are clearly indicated. The map is available via the free Ondago app, which allows access without cell phone data, as well as at the Mont-Tremblant tourist information office.

River investments and fish stocking

Not surprisingly, the program of support for stocking lakes and watercourses did not escape the MFFP cuts. However, Denis Landreville remains optimistic. He believes that the fish stocking will take place as anticipated thanks to a subsidy from the Ville de Mont-Tremblant and the partnership of Pisciculture Mont-Tremblant

What’s more, the Ville has made a commitment to undertake about $300,000 worth of work to improve the trails and signage. These investments will mean safer access at the various places on the Diable river reserved for fly-fishing.

“We are particularly proud of this significant commitment by the Ville to recognize fly-fishing as being part of its quality outdoor recreation offer,” say the Moucheurs on their new website.

Have a great fishing season!

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