Seven places to go fishing in the Townships

Updated on May 13, 2026

Discover seven great spots to cast a line in the Eastern Townships and create fishing stories worth telling for years to come!


Parc Découverte Nature - Coaticook

Feel like casting a line during a family outing or a getaway for two? Two ponds are available for visitors looking to try light tackle fishing in a peaceful and accessible setting. Bringing your own fishing gear is recommended, but rods and bait are provided free of charge for those who need them. To take the experience even further, visitors can even cook their catch on site thanks to the “gourmet adventure” option. BBQs, rice, seasonings and utensils are all provided to turn the day’s catch into a meal that’s as friendly as it is delicious.

Fish species: brook trout and rainbow trout.

Starting May 16, 2026


La rivière Magog et la rivière St-François – Sherbrooke

Located at the junction of the Magog and Saint-François rivers, Sherbrooke offers several great spots for fishing enthusiasts. Along the Magog River, a network of trails and 11 fishing holes make access easy for anglers. The Saint-François River features 23 fishing holes in the Lennoxville sector, near downtown Sherbrooke and around Bromptonville.

Fish species: brown trout, rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, lake trout, brook trout, muskellunge, northern pike, yellow walleye, perch, lake whitefish, rainbow smelt, pumpkinseed sunfish, chain pickerel, rock bass and brown bullhead.

Check out Sherbrooke’s fishing zone map.


Lac Massawippi – Ayer’s Cliff

Known as the deepest lake in the region, this vast body of water is also a favourite among anglers thanks to its large wild population of lake trout and bass. Its waters are perfect for a day of fishing by boat, surrounded by mountains and forests stretching as far as the eye can see. No boat? Location des Quatre Lacs rents boats so visitors can fully enjoy the lake, including areas accessible only by water. And between catches, the scenery is hard to beat — Lake Massawippi is considered one of Québec’s most beautiful lakes.

Fish species: lake trout, brown trout, pike, bass and perch.


Grand lac Saint-François et parc national de Frontenac

Partly located within Frontenac National Park, Grand lac Saint-François is the third largest lake south of the St. Lawrence River — meaning there’s plenty of room to fish in peace. Two boat launches are available on the lake, one private and the other located inside the park. Guests staying in the park’s accommodations can also fish on interior lakes where only non-motorized or electric-powered boats are allowed.

Fish species: pike, walleye, bass, landlocked salmon and perch.

Fishing periods:

  • Grand lac Saint-François: fishing season opening dates vary depending on species.
  • Exclusive fishing access reserved for chalet guests (Lacs des Îles, des Ours and La Barbue sectors): May 15 to October 26, 2026, until noon.

See the maps:

  • Saint-Daniel and Sainte-Praxède sectors
  • South sector (shore fishing)

Consultez les cartes :


La rivière Yamaska Nord - Granby

Easily accessible from downtown Granby, the Yamaska Nord River stretches across nearly 8 km specially developed for fishing. Particularly popular among fly fishing enthusiasts, it features more than a dozen salmonid-stocked pools, offering great opportunities to cast a line year-round. Whether under the summer sun or in the middle of winter, this riverside spot is perfect for a peaceful fishing outing.

Fish species: brown trout, brook trout, smallmouth bass, fallfish and perch.

View the fishing hole map.


Parc national de la Yamaska - Réservoir Choinière

Located in the heart of Yamaska National Park, the 4.5 km² Choinière Reservoir is teeming with life. Beyond the fish waiting to bite, visitors can also spot a wide variety of birds, amphibians and reptiles along the shoreline. Since gas-powered boats are prohibited, the reservoir offers a calm and peaceful environment for fishing and paddling. Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards and rowboats are available for rent at the park’s rental centre.

Fish species: up to 19 species, mainly smallmouth bass, northern pike and yellow walleye.

Please note: perch fishing is now prohibited.


Aventures Évasion Estrie – On Lake Mégantic

For those looking to turn a fishing outing into a full getaway, Aventures Évasion Estrie offers packages that combine accommodations, boats and access to several fishing spots. Looking to catch brook trout in a secluded mountain lake near Parc national du Mont-Mégantic? The Équinoxe, Azimut, Boréal and Zénith chalets provide privileged access to a more remote area, perfect for an immersive wilderness fishing experience. For walleye, bass and perch fishing, set up near the waterfront Oasis du lac chalets.

Fish species: brook trout, walleye, bass and perch.

Before heading out, make sure to purchase a valid fishing licence — available at several local retailers — and be sure to follow fishing seasons and daily catch limits for each location. Happy fishing!

You should read

Our Lakes, Pure Treasures
Canoe & Kayak: Where to Go in the Eastern Townships
14 Family Outings in the Eastern Townships
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