The Miramichi River is one of the premier striped bass fisheries in Atlantic Canada. Here's what you need to know about the fish, the techniques, and the seasons that make this fishery world-class.
Striped bass - also known as stripers - are one of the most prized fish in North America. They're powerful, aggressive, and put up a serious fight on rod and reel. The Miramichi River is a critical spawning and migratory habitat, drawing fish each spring and fall.
Fish on the Miramichi commonly range from 18 to 36 inches, with trophy-class fish exceeding 40 inches. They're attracted to current seams and tidal movement - exactly the kind of water Ernie knows best.
Stripers are ambush feeders that respond to a range of presentations from surface lures to deep jigs, depending on water temperature, tide, and time of year.
Spring stripers are aggressive near the surface. Topwater plugs, poppers, and walk-the-dog lures produce explosive strikes during the pre-spawn run - some of the most exciting fishing you'll ever experience.
Soft plastic swimbaits and paddle tails fished on jig heads are versatile and deadly. Ernie adjusts weight and retrieve speed based on current and depth to keep you in the strike zone.
The Miramichi is tidal, and fish movement is driven by the tide cycle. Ernie plans every trip around tide charts to maximize active feeding windows and moving water.
When conditions call for it, natural bait presentations can be incredibly effective.
Spring stripers push into the Miramichi ahead of spawning - aggressive, schooling, and concentrated in predictable spots. The combination of warming water and spawning instinct makes these fish exceptionally willing to strike.
Cooling water triggers aggressive pre-migration feeding. Fall foliage and the biggest fish of the year. These fish are bulking up for the winter and they feed with urgency.
Ernie supplies quality rods, reels, lures, and terminal tackle for every trip. Everything is maintained and matched to current conditions so you're always fishing with the right setup.
Experienced anglers are welcome to bring their own gear. A medium-heavy spinning rod in the 7' range with 20–40lb braid is a solid all-around choice for Miramichi stripers.
No recreational fishing licence is required for striped bass in New Brunswick's tidal waters - this applies to both Canadian residents and US visitors.
Retention limits, size requirements, and seasonal windows are set by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and can change from year to year. Ernie stays on top of current regulations and will brief you before every trip on what's allowed that season.
Conservation is a core part of how we fish. Proper handling, quick release techniques, and respect for the resource ensure this fishery stays healthy for generations.
Experience world-class striped bass fishing on the Miramichi with licensed guide Ernie Carlson.
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