My little story…
Mario Leduc Ice Fishing Center – Ice Fishing on the Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pérade River in Quebec
Discover the unique experience of the Mario Leduc Ice Fishing Center in Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pérade, a flagship destination for ice fishing in Quebec. From the age of 15, I worked for a renowned outfitter on the Sainte-Anne River, the birthplace of fishing for small channel fish, also known as tomcod (poulamon). This winter tradition creates many seasonal jobs each year for teenagers in Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pérade, attracting ice fishing enthusiasts from across the province.
Thanks to the guidance of Mr. Robert Mailhot, an expert in ice fishing and tomcod, I acquired all the knowledge needed to become the owner of my own ice fishing center at the age of 26. The Mario Leduc Ice Fishing Center is now recognized for its modern facilities and warm hospitality, offering an authentic experience on the Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pérade River.
At the time, nearly 1,500 ice fishing huts were set up on the frozen surface of the Sainte-Anne River. Today, the fishing cabins are spacious and comfortable, designed to meet the needs of families and groups of friends. According to biologist Yves Mailhot, sport fishing and commercial fishing represent only a small portion of the total tomcod population, ensuring the sustainability of this iconic winter activity.
When commercial fishing was authorized at the mouth of the Sainte-Anne River, catches by recreational anglers dropped significantly. The number of fishing huts fell from 1,500 to 400–500, and the number of outfitters decreased from 52 to about twenty. This difficult period marked the history of ice fishing in Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pérade.
Thanks to the efforts of Guy-Paul Brouillette, president at the time, and biologist Yves Mailhot, a moratorium on commercial fishing was introduced, allowing abundance to return to the Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pérade River. Tomcod catches increased, and so did anglers’ satisfaction, reviving the tradition of ice fishing in Quebec.
Today, the Mario Leduc Ice Fishing Center offers modern fishing cabins that can accommodate from 4 to 24 people. Fishing for tomcod in Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pérade has become a must-do family activity in Quebec, ideal for celebrating the New Year, sharing unique moments, and enjoying the winter outdoors. Book your ice fishing cabin now and experience an authentic adventure on the Sainte-Anne River, at the heart of Quebec’s ice fishing tradition.
FAQ
Centre de Pêche Mario Leduc – Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pérade
* The Mario Leduc Ice Fishing Center is a well-known destination for ice fishing on the Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pérade River in Quebec. It offers an authentic and welcoming ice fishing experience, with modern facilities suited for families and groups of friends.
What is the history of the Mario Leduc Ice Fishing Center?
* The center was founded by Mario Leduc, who began his fishing experience at the age of 15 with outfitter Robert Mailhot. Building on this experience, he became the owner of his own fishing business at 26 and contributed to the tradition of ice fishing in Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pérade.
What is tomcod fishing?
* Fishing for small channel fish, also known as tomcod (poulamon), is a winter tradition in Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pérade. It involves catching these fish through the ice from specially equipped huts or cabins.
How many people can stay in the center’s cabins?
* The cabins at the Mario Leduc Ice Fishing Center can accommodate between 4 and 24 people.
Is ice fishing a sustainable activity?
* Yes, according to biologist Yves Mailhot, sport and commercial fishing represent only a small portion of the total tomcod population, which ensures the sustainability of ice fishing.
What happened when commercial fishing was authorized?
* The authorization of commercial fishing at the mouth of the river led to a significant decrease in catches, as well as a decline in the number of fishing huts and outfitters.
How was the ice fishing tradition preserved?
* Thanks to the efforts of Guy-Paul Brouillette and biologist Yves Mailhot, a moratorium on commercial fishing helped restore the abundance of tomcod and revive the ice fishing tradition.
What are the benefits of booking a cabin at the Mario Leduc Ice Fishing Center?
* You’ll enjoy an authentic ice fishing experience in a modern and comfortable setting, ideal for celebrating the New Year, sharing unique moments, and enjoying Quebec’s winter outdoors.
How can I book an ice fishing cabin?
* Simply contact the Mario Leduc Ice Fishing Center to reserve your cabin and enjoy an unforgettable experience on the Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pérade River.
Is ice fishing suitable for families?
* Yes, ice fishing is now a must-do family activity in Quebec, perfect for bringing together family and friends in a warm and festive atmosphere.
How to reach us
Mario Leduc Fishing Center – info@marioleduc.com – 418 325-2402