An Atlantic Addiction
Author information
Canada
Fred Campbell
3 min read
Fly fishing for me is all about the pursuit of wild fish in the most breathtaking places. And nothing quite compares to the thrill of pursuing Atlantic salmon across the Canadian wilderness.
Canada’s salmon rivers are as vast as they are varied – from smaller forest streams where you can sneak in with a single-hand rod, to wide, glacial-fed currents that demand heavier setups. Every bend in the river feels like a step deeper into an untamed world, where silence, anticipation, and sudden bursts of silver energy collide.
It’s this blend of solitude and explosive excitement that keeps drawing me back.
When it comes to my favourite set ups, the single-hand 7X 7100 with a 58 Classic reel is the perfect combo for smaller rivers, and especially ideal for dry fly fishing. Paired with the SST Dry Fly line – featuring a 36′ head length and a 240g head weight – its short front taper allows for precise presentations, making it a great choice for single-hand salmon fishing.
For more distance with a wet fly, I also use the 7X 7116 switch with the SDS Scandi kit, loaded with a 410g head and interchangeable tips. Depending on water levels, I switch between floating and sink tips to match the conditions.
I fish both setups with a straight 10′ Maxima 12lbs leader. I’ve never found Atlantic salmon to be particularly leader shy, and I like the confidence that comes with a leader tough enough for these strong, acrobatic fish.
For flies I also use a wide variety of sizes and colours for both dry and wet, and truly believe the Atlantic salmon is so unpredictable that it can hit any fly at any given time. I have some favourite flies but have never seen any consecutive partners.
The goal is to never give up and keep trying. That’s the essence of Atlantic salmon fishing – persistence in the face of unpredictability. Every cast holds a chance, and every take is unforgettable. Some days the river feels generous, others it tests your patience, but it’s all part of the addiction.
The goal is to never give up and keep trying.
