Marcel Cadoret has been a surveyor by profession for over 40 years. A passionate salmon fisherman for more than 15 years, he has explored all the rivers of the Côte-Nord in search of the best spots. Today, as a true connoisseur, he tells us about the Godbout River, his favorite river, or as he likes to call it, “The Jewel of Godbout.”
For Marcel Cadoret, fishing initially provided an opportunity to reconnect with family before it became his passion. "Some say I'm a good fisherman, but I think I'm a fishing fanatic. If I have a chance to go fishing, I'll take it," confides the enthusiast with great humility.
Marcel has been involved in the board of directors of the Godbout River ZEC and the river protection committee for many years. The former mayor of Godbout, Mr. Éric Deschênes, who passed away last spring, initiated the revival of the ZEC 15 years ago with the current president Mr. Normand Bissonnette and Mr. Léo Savard, the coordinator.
"All these people work very hard, and it's thanks to the late Mr. Deschênes that the ZEC is where it is today. I was on the board of the ZEC or the river protection committee for eight years. Today, it has allowed me to also know the other activities you can do on the river, including canoeing."
The Godbout River: An Overview
The Godbout River, a jewel of the Côte-Nord, is nestled 250 km east of Tadoussac by road and is accessible by ferry service from Matane. It majestically stretches 112 kilometers before flowing into the St. Lawrence River, west of the charming village of Godbout.
Its name, along with that of the village, honors Nicolas Godbout, a navigator and explorer who left his mark on the region's history with his many voyages of exploration. Similar to Napoléon Alexandre Comeau, who was the first guardian of the river, these two figures are part of the historical landscape of the Côte-Nord.
The Godbout River, with its vast watershed and numerous small tributaries, has carved its bed through the mountains, creating a series of rapids and seven waterfalls. The river features 29 salmon pools. Its rocky escarpments offer a breathtaking spectacle, punctuated by the sight of salmon ascending the river at several points along its course. Surrounded by dense boreal forests populated mainly by conifers, this river abounds with fishing and hunting opportunities, cementing its reputation among the best salmon rivers in Quebec. It is one of the seven rivers in the province with the highest potential for salmon capture.
The ZEC of the Godbout and Mistassini rivers oversees about 70 kilometers of this watercourse, where salmon fishing is the main activity, although brook trout are sometimes present, albeit harder to catch due to the thresholds.
The Three Sectors of the Godbout River
The river is divided into three distinct sectors, two regulated and one unregulated.
The first regulated sector is the Guilmour sector, visible from the bridge on Route 138 on the south side. It is an excellent sector early in the season, during June. The Guilmour sector is part of the Cap-Nord property, graciously loaned to the Godbout ZEC for funding purposes.
The second regulated sector is the Cap-Nord sector, extending from the Guilmour sector to the Grande Chute. This sector is renowned for its nearly 350 steps. Thus, Cap-Nord offers the Godbout ZEC four hours of fishing per day for its clients. They have the opportunity to go to this sector, reputed to be the most beautiful on the river. Additionally, a rustic camp with a gourmet kitchen and a renowned chef is available for fishing enthusiasts. This sector is best from June 15 to July 15.
The third and final sector is the Grande Chute sector. It is located above the falls and is the only unregulated sector of the river. It is the most family-friendly, unlike the other two where you must arrive and leave at a specific time, making it the least restrictive sector. It runs from kilometer 5 to kilometer 14 and includes many pools. There is a large area that can accommodate many anglers. It is an exciting playground with its magnificent pools, some of which can hold many salmon. This sector is best from July 15 onward.
Despite its growing notoriety, the Godbout River remains relatively unknown, although it hosts a salmon population far exceeding a thousand.
Marcel Cadoret's Tips
Recommended Flies:
- Wet flies: Pink Lady
- Dry flies: Shrimp
Types of Salmon:
Grilse: In the waters of the Godbout River, you can find beautiful grilse weighing up to 5 to 6 pounds. The grilse is a salmon that, after spending its first winter at sea, returns to its native river for the first time.
Large salmon: The large salmon of the Godbout River generally weigh between 10 and 16 pounds. The Grande Chute sector is the best place to fish them, as they get trapped in the pool, where up to 200 salmon can be seen. The sight of these jumping salmon is spectacular. According to Marcel Cadoret, it is by far the best sector, as well as the most beautiful pool on the Côte-Nord.
Important Note: Every November 1, a draw is held for the Cap-Nord sector. By entering, and depending on the draw, you can choose your fishing date to benefit from two fishing sessions over two days, or four spots.
Conclusion
The Godbout River, with its exceptional natural setting and multiple fishing opportunities, remains a hidden treasure of the Côte-Nord. For salmon fishing enthusiasts, it offers not only abundant catches but also an immersive experience in the wild beauty of Quebec. Marcel Cadoret, with his love and dedication to this river, perfectly embodies the spirit of this timeless passion. For those who have not yet had the chance to discover this jewel, the Godbout River awaits, ready to unveil its secrets and wonders.
Written by Charlotte Vuillemin