Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pérade’s 87th fishing season is marked by concerns over declining small channel fish populations, particularly the Atlantic tomcod. A Ministry study reveals a significant decrease in tomcod abundance since 2009, potentially linked to climate change and increased striped bass predation. Despite historical fluctuations and past commercial fishing impacts, the region’s unique spawning environment supports fish reproduction. This year, over 600 million small channel fish are expected to spawn, yet the catch for 90,000 anglers is projected to be under one million.
The Seasonal Fishing Village of Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pérade
As the picturesque fishing village of Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pérade kicks off its 87th season, concerns are being raised about the dwindling populations of small channel fish. This beloved annual event is a major draw for anglers, yet recent reports indicate a decline in these fish populations.
Steve Massicotte, a representative from the outfitters, shares, “Over the past five years, we have been advocating for the release of catches that are not intended for consumption. The days of having heaps of fish by the cabin are behind us.” This initiative aims to protect the small fish that are caught three meters beneath the frozen surface, with an impressive 97% survival rate for those released back into the water.
Understanding the Decline of the Atlantic Tomcod
Despite the thrill of fishing for the Atlantic tomcod during the prime season from December 26 to February 16, a 2023 study conducted by the Ministry of the Environment, Climate Change, Wildlife and Parks has highlighted a concerning trend: “a decrease in the overall abundance of the tomcod stock” since 2009. Daniel Labonté, spokesperson for the ministry, explains that “the recent abundance of spawners is near or slightly below the average values observed since 2010.”
While the exact reasons for this decline remain unclear, climate change could be a contributing factor. Massicotte also points to the increasing presence of striped bass in the St. Lawrence River, which now preys on the same bottom-dwelling organisms as the tomcod.
Historical fluctuations in fish populations have been documented. Simon Leduc, whose family has welcomed fishermen for generations, recalls how commercial fishing led to significant reductions in fish numbers in the past. Excitement fills cabin no. 2 as fishermen, including Montrealer Vincent Nantel, enjoy their first tomcod fishing experience, catching around 200 fish in just three hours.
Each year, over 600 million small channel fish spawn under the ice of the Sainte-Anne River, yet the anticipated catch for the 90,000 fishermen this year will be less than one million. Unlike many fish, the Atlantic tomcod spends its entire life cycle in the Gulf and estuary of the St. Lawrence, never venturing to the open ocean.
Although they can also be found in the Batiscan River, their numbers are considerably lower there. Massicotte explains the unique environment of the Sainte-Anne River, where frazil ice—a collection of small ice crystals—forms in the rapids, providing an ideal spawning ground for these fish. After spawning in January and February, the eggs hatch, and the larvae are carried into the brackish waters of the Gulf, eventually returning as adults to their birthplace.
Resembling a miniature cod, the tomcod can transition from freshwater to saltwater. Unlike salmon, they feed during spawning, making them a viable target for anglers. While commercial fishing for tomcod was permitted in the 1940s, the decline in populations led to its discontinuation in 1992.