Fishing

Fishing has played a significant role historically in Kejimkujik, from the traditional food gathering of the Mi’kmaq to the guided fishing trips of the resort era. Fishing continues to be an important activity in this area. Kejimkujik’s rivers provide excellent spring trout fishing.

Parks Canada strives to provide high quality angling experiences focusing on fish conservation, education, and enjoyment of the park environment. The fish management program at Kejimkujik supports the protection and conduct of research in aquatic biodiversity, habitats, and natural processes.

When can I fish at Kejimkujik?

Fishing season at Kejimkujik is April 1 to August 31.

Spring camping for fishers

A very limited number of backcountry camping sites are available by self-registration from April 1 to May 16, 2024.

Available sites: Rogers Brook cabin and backcountry sites 12, 13, and 14 only.

Note:

• Sites are available on a first come, first serve basis via a self-registration book at the Visitor Centre.
• Boat access will be available at Jakes Landing.
• Visitors must be prepared: bring a camp stove and toilet paper.
• Deadfall may be present.

Updates: 902-682-2770

Fishing permit

A National Park Fishing Permit is required to fish in Kejimkujik. This is completely independent of a provincial fishing license.

You can purchase either a daily permit or a seasonal permit.

This permit extends to accompanying youth under 16 years old.

See prices

Where to get a fishing permit

Kejimkujik fishing permits will be available at the Visitor Centre as of Victoria Day Weekend.

Permits will be available at the following locations until then (and throughout the season):

• Mary Lake Home Hardware (Caledonia)
• Milford House (South Milford) (as of May long weekend)
• Lequille Country Store (Lequille, near Annapolis Royal)
• Woods Wise Outfitters (Oakhill, near Bridgewater)
• MacPherson’s Tackle Shop (Liverpool)
• The Trail Shop (Halifax)

Fishing regulations

In 2018, Parks Canada confirmed the presence of the invasive Chain pickerel in the park’s aquatic ecosystem. Chain pickerel are a predatory fish that can have significant negative effects on freshwater ecosystems. In additional to preying directly on Brook trout, they also out-compete trout for food resources. For this reason, new Kejimkujik sport fishing rules were introduced in 2019.

New rules

1. All non-invasive fish are catch and release only
2. Mandatory retention of invasive fish
3. All tackle may only include one barbless hook
4. No person shall use natural bait of any kind, including earthworms

Additional information is included in the Sportfish Management and Protection information which comes with your fishing permit.

What are my responsibilities as an angler at Kejimkujik?

Climate change, pollutants, intensive fishing, and the introduction of exotic or invasive species threaten Kejimkujik’s freshwater fish populations. Brook trout are particularly susceptible to these threats and are an ideal indicator of the ecological integrity of the whole freshwater ecosystem. Parks Canada’s research and management strategies at Kejimkujik focus on maintaining a healthy and viable Brook trout population throughout Kejimkujik’s watersheds. Participate in our fish management program in the following ways.

Observe all applicable fishing regulations

Familiarize yourself with the regulations by reading our Sportfish Management and Protection information included with your fishing license. Copies are available at the Visitor Centre and at Jake's Landing.

Be our eyes on the Kejimkujik waterways

Help us with our fish monitoring by keeping an eye out for invasive species and tagged Brook trout. Information about species identification and how to spot a tagged trout are included with your fishing license, as well as an angler diary so you can record and report your findings.

Contact

Interested anglers are encouraged to attend an information session, held annually in spring, or contact Brandon.Nilsen@pc.gc.ca.