When does fishing for small channel fish begin?

Did you know that this small fish of the cod family does not live all the time in our Ste-Anne-de-la-Pérade River? In fact, this little stranger lives in the St. Lawrence estuary most of the year and travels, in winter, to come and spawn in the Ste-Anne River. An impressive quantity of tomcods, that’s his other name, arrive in the river around December to leave in his natural habitat towards the end of February. This makes our village of Ste-Anne-de-la-Pérade, the world capital of small channel fish. First of all, it is important to know that these small aquatic animals are oviparous, that is to say that they lay eggs that will be later fertilized in the water by the male. When the “mating season” or spawning season comes, our little tomcods arrive in our frozen river. The female lays her eggs in a small ice called frazil, which protects them. The river is full of this frazil which strangely resembles the “slush” that many youngsters drink during the summer heat but much less tasty, believe me. Afterwards, the male fertilizes the eggs and those for which the process will have worked, will become fry and then tomcods. Can you imagine the number of small fish that will be born during this season? It is unthinkable to try to count them. And that’s how, year after year, we are lucky enough to be able to count on this new arrival of small fish from the channels to bring our ice village back to life for almost two months. During this time, it is the village’s feast. People come from everywhere to have the pleasure of spending time with family and friends. Winter sports are in the spotlight and everyone is having fun. All this in an enchanting and lively setting. All sports combined, fishing for small fish in the channels remains one of the most affordable winter sports. It is practiced day and night and no equipment is required except a pair of skates, a ball or other accessory to go play outside. Apart from our personal belongings, the equipment we use for the fishing itself is provided by the outfitter. So, we don’t break our heads and we enjoy our beautiful day. No need for a permit or fishing rods, everything is there when you arrive. In a few words, fishing for small channel fish in Ste-Anne-de-la-Pérade is a great opportunity to get together. So don’t hesitate, we’re waiting for you!