October 10th, 2026
A Strong Finish to the Miramichi Salmon Season!
October has delivered some excellent Fall Salmon Fishing on the Miramichi! Although water levels have remained on the low side, conditions have been nearly ideal for the lower stretches of the Main Southwest Miramichi. Unfortunately, the Cains River and other tributaries are still waiting for much needed rain to allow more Salmon to move upstream toward their spawning grounds.
Fortunately, Country Haven has access to some of the best private fishing pools along the lower river, and several of these pools have been producing outstanding results this fall. Many of our guests have enjoyed excellent fishing, with some reaching their daily Catch & Release limits.
Thursday, October 8, was our best day of the Fall Season so far, with seven anglers landing an impressive 12 fish, the majority being large Atlantic Salmon rather than Grilse. A great day on the river and another encouraging sign for the 2026 Salmon Season!
Interestingly, the fish are still responding to a variety of fly patterns. Depending on the pool and conditions, smaller summer patterns such as Bear Hair and Green Machines continue to work well, alongside traditional fall favourites like GP Shrimps and Red Frances. Different Bomber patterns have also been producing exciting action on the surface.
While the longer range forecast is calling for some rain, it may arrive a little too late to significantly improve fishing conditions on the Cains before the season closes.
As we approach the end of the 2026 Atlantic Salmon season, we are grateful for the encouraging number of healthy Salmon and Grilse we have seen and caught this fall. After several challenging seasons, this year's fishing has certainly given Anglers and our Guides renewed hope for the future of the Mighty Miramichi.
Tight Lines from all of us at Country Haven Lodge!
Randy McAllister, Kansas, Miramichi release video