Gros Mécatina River
The Gros Mecatina River rises in Lac Boucher and flows southeastward into the Gulf of St-Laurent, west of Baie des Moutons and the village of Mutton Bay. The river, some 50 km long, is criss-crossed by numerous lakes, giving it an ever-changing, meandering physiognomy and a formidable diversity of panoramas. The hills in the immediate hinterland of the village of Mutton Bay rise to almost 270 metres. The word "mecatina" means "big mountain" in the Innu language.
Commercial fishing on the Gros Mecatina River dates back to 1749. Even then, the area was renowned for the number, quality and strength of its brook trout and salmon. The fish, numerous and combative, swim up the river to a large waterfall located approximately 20 kilometers from the mouth.
Today, Mécatina Outfitters has exclusive fishing rights from the mouth to this impassable obstacle. Twenty or so pools, located at very short distances from each other, line the river and allow wading on a sand-free rocky bed. Around 20% of the salmon caught are over 2.7 kilograms in weight. The first catches are made in early July, and the season can continue until September. Anglers will enjoy the peace and generosity of a place suspended in time.
