Why do Quebec outfitters make such great destinations? Because they give you access to the best of our province’s most beautiful rivers, lakes and untouched wilderness, among other things. These bodies of water represent some of our greatest treasures, and outfitters have made it their mission to connect nature lovers to them via various water excursions. Whether it’s to see majestic marine species or reel in the best catches, why not embark on a thrilling experience at sea! Here’s an overview of the 12 outfitters where this unique activity is available.
Capitale-Nationale
First stop: Baie-Sainte-Catherine at Pourvoirie HumanitéThis link will open in a new window! Just a few kilometres from the outfitter, you’ll have privileged access to the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park by boat or zodiac. With a little luck, you may spot humpback whales, blue whales, rorquals, seals and belugas.
Côte-Nord
Next make your way to the Tadoussac area in the Côte-Nord region, where there are countless outfitters to choose from. The Pourvoirie des Lacs à Jimmy – Pourvoiries Essipit This link will open in a new window is part of the larger Vacances Essipit organization, known for its whale-watching tours. Sail along the St. Lawrence Estuary and catch a glimpse of these majestic marine mammals, drawn to the deep waters by the abundant food. You can also take advantage of these outstanding tours if you stay at Club du lac des BaiesThis link will open in a new window or at Pourvoirie des Grands DucsThis link will open in a new window, which are less than an hour’s drive from the St. Lawrence River.
Continue along Route 138 towards Baie-Johan-Beetz to venture into the vast Golf of St. Lawrence. Your first stop is at La CorneilleThis link will open in a new window outfitter, located in the heart of the Mingan Archipelago. Here, you can kayak out to sea and observe whales and seals. You can also try your hand at a different kind of fishing . . . foraging for mussels, clams and sea urchins! Nestled on the shoreline, the Baie Johan-Beetz outfitter, with its charming historic château-like building, is ideally located for setting out to sea in the Mingan Archipelago.
Next, go well past the end of Route 138 by taking a seaplane to Pourvoirie MusquanousseThis link will open in a new window, located on the river of the same name. Here you can canoe and enjoy wilderness at its best on the shores of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. A true haven of peace!
Gaspésie
On the other side of the river, in Gaspésie, the sea excursions are just as exciting. The Auberge-Pourvoirie de la Rivière MatapédiaThis link will open in a new window outfitter offers various canoe and kayak tours on the Matapedia, Causapscal and Restigouche rivers. Water sports enthusiasts will be in paradise in the Matapedia Valley, with the outfitter offering various kinds of all-inclusive adventure packages.
On the Rivière Bonaventure and the Baie-des-Chaleurs, Victoriaville’s Pourvoirie Destination Le Mirage This link will open in a new window offers a guided fishing excursion for striped bass. Did you know that Baie-des-Chaleurs is the only place in Quebec where striped bass fishing is permitted? Here you can take a six-hour tour, with action guaranteed!
Nunavik
Visiting Quebec’s northernmost region, Nunavik, is an adventure in itself. And getting out on the water with the Indigenous guides from Johnny & Billy Cain Outfitters This link will open in a new windowis a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Discover Leaf Bay, known for its strong tides, and the Leaf River Estuary. Bearded seals and beluga whales abound here, and in August they head upriver in search of char and salmon on their annual migration.
Chaudière-Appalaches
In the Chaudière-Appalaches region, a short sea excursion on a ferry takes you to the Auberge-Pourvoirie Isle-aux-GruesThis link will open in a new window, located on the island of the same name. This magnificent and peaceful haven is well-known for its waterfowl hunting.
Nearby, in the same archipelago, at Domaine de l’Île au Canot, This link will open in a new windowyou can step off at the Montmagny wharf to access their private estate. The Domaine is known as one of the best places in the world for white goose hunting. Since the site is accessible only by boat, your stay is all the more special. The Domaine also offers unique excursions, including sandbar tours to experience the benefits of low tide, and fishing trips throughout the islands. Top off your stay with a visit to Grosse-Île, a magical place brimming with history.
Are you ready for a trip out to sea?