Ship Harbour Big Pond near Whitbourne: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  Set in Long Harbour-Mount Arlington Heights, Ship Harbour Big Pond is a Newfoundland and Labrador water. The sea is 7.1 km distant. This is sizeable water at about 1.15 sq km, and a boat opens up most of it. There is roughly 9.3 km of bank, more than one visit can cover properly. Supplies mean a trip to Whitbourne, 18 km off. It is 82 km to St. John's, the nearest city. The county edge is within a short distance of the bank.

• Where to Fish on Ship Harbour Big Pond

  We hold no survey for this water; read the slope of the shoreline instead. The shallow end warms first and pulls fish in ahead of the rest. Read the surface for the wind lane, then fish the edge of it. Records held for Long Harbour-Mount Arlington Heights cover Arctic charr, Atlantic salmon, brook trout and rainbow smelt. At least one recorded species is protected in parts of its range; read the local rules before targeting anything. Ship Harbour Big Pond fishes better once you know its edges.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Climate records put August near 16°C and February near -6°C. A full turn of seasons, with the strongest sport on either side of summer. Ice-out usually falls in late April, and the weeks after it fish hardest. On average, late April opens the water and mid December closes it again. Just after the ice goes and just before it returns, the fishing lifts. At Ship Harbour Big Pond the season follows that pattern closely.

• Tackle & Baits

  Public sources are silent on who controls the bank. Mapping is blank for access, so scout the approach before committing the car. Light line and small metal for the trout; a fly rod earns its place on calm evenings. Where access is informal, keep it that way by behaving. Check whether bait restrictions apply before you buy any. Soldier Pond at 2.7 km is the sensible second choice. For Ship Harbour Big Pond in particular, ask before you travel.