New Brunswick has announced the application period for angling on regular Crown reserve waters.
Applications are open until March 1.
The much coveted Crown reserve fishing spots, located along the Miramichi and Restigouche rivers, offer 20 top salmon fishing areas.
Successful applicants from the draw, to be revealed on March 18, will be granted a two-day fishing pass to one of these prime locations, with 16 of them including a fishing camp at no extra charge.
Per the news release, out of 574 applications last year, 389 were successful, allowing 1,460 anglers to experience these exclusive waters between June 10 and September 15, although specific stretches may have different dates.
“We are fortunate to have an abundance of options for fishing in our beautiful province,” said Natural Resources and Energy Development Minister Mike Holland in a news release. “I encourage everyone to get out and enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities, like fishing, that our province has to offer.”
To apply for the draw or purchase an angling license, one must first acquire an Outdoors Card through a free online registration or at designated locations.
Those who don’t win the draw can try booking again during the May 6-19 period for unsuccessful applicants, with a general booking window running from June 3 to September 15 for all.
Fishing is free in New Brunswick during the Family Day long weekend in February and the first weekend of June. Access to private waters, crown reserve waters and crown leases are still restricted.