The origins of fishing for small fish in the channels at Ste-Anne-de-la-Pérade

The fishing of small channel fish, an emblematic winter activity of Ste-Anne-de-la-Pérade, is a tradition rooted in local history and the way of life of the riverside residents of Mauricie. This leisure activity, which over the decades has become a true provincial attraction, has a fascinating origin and bears witness to the ingenuity of communities that learned to take advantage of the resources offered by their natural environment. It all begins at the start of the 20th century, when the Sainte-Anne River, frozen during the coldest months of the year, reveals a surprising phenomenon. In 1938, a remarkable abundance of Atlantic tomcod, also known by the name “small channel fish“, attracts the attention of local fishers. The tomcod, a small silvery fish living in dense schools, migrates into the river’s waters in search of a suitable habitat for reproduction. This winter migration quickly becomes an event observed with curiosity by residents, who then begin to take advantage of this opportunity. Faced with this new treasure, the fishers improvise rudimentary shelters on the ice, thus forming the first “fishing shacks“. The primary objective was simple: to feed families during the winter, a period traditionally difficult for subsistence. The equipment used was modest : hand lines, small bait, and plenty of patience. Gradually, the activity grows in popularity and becomes more organized. The shacks multiply and the river turns into an ephemeral village where conviviality reigns supreme. The fishing of small channel fish then evolves, shifting from a vital necessity to a festive community celebration. Curious visitors and enthusiasts flock from all over Quebec to take part in this unique experience. Today, Ste-Anne-de-la-Pérade welcomes thousands of visitors each year who come to discover this heritage, blending traditions and innovations, where local know-how is passed down from generation to generation. Far from being a simple pastime, this fishing remains a source of regional pride, a symbol of the identity and solidarity of the people of Mauricie.