Credit: Roger St-Laurent

Gaspésie and its fish and seafood

Savor Fish and Seafood in Gaspésie

In Gaspésie, the sea is on the table year-round. Crab arrives around Easter, and lobster for Mother’s Day—these early catches kick off the highly anticipated season in the province. Throughout the rest of the year, seafood remains available thanks to quick-freezing right after it’s brought onshore, preserving taste, texture, and freshness.

Fishing plays an important role in everyday life in Gaspésie. It supports the regional economy while ensuring a rich culinary offering. Everywhere, you’ll find fish markets, snack bars, and restaurants that highlight seafood. Smokehouses also keep a strong tradition alive. Smoked salmon, even when farmed, is a local specialty and a source of pride.

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Lobster

Credit: Roger St-Laurent

Lobster

Renowned for its tender meat and refined flavor, Gaspésie lobster can be enjoyed in countless ways—from club sandwiches to gourmet creations by chefs who know how to elevate this iconic crustacean. Caught from May to June, it can be savored fresh throughout the summer thanks to the holding tanks at many fish markets and restaurants.
Crab

Credit: Josiane Isabel

Crab

In spring, during peak snow crab season, locals stock up on its delicate meat to enjoy for a long time. Try it in crab cakes, rolls, or club sandwiches. To bring a taste of Gaspésie home, consider the small frozen crab jars sold in fish markets—perfect for later enjoyment.
Northern shrimp

Credit: Atelier Camion

Shrimp

In spring, excitement fills the air as the famous shell-on shrimp arrive, kicking off shrimp peeling season! By summer, they are abundant in fish markets. Follow the local tradition and order a small cup of shrimp to enjoy on the go with a toothpick. They are also served in rolls, a classic snack bar favorite.
Smoked Salmon

Credit: Atelier Camion

Smoked Salmon

Gaspésie’s expertise in smoking seafood is now recognized far beyond the region. Many restaurants serve smoked salmon as a starter or main course. Perfect for picnics or camping meals, ready-to-eat smoked salmon packs are available at most fish markets—or even better, directly from the smokehouses!
La Maison du Pêcheur Percé Restaurants

Credit: Roger St-Laurent

Cod and Other Fish

Whether in a patty or as fish and chips, cod is a must-try in Gaspésie. Other white-fleshed fish are also on the menu depending on availability: haddock, halibut, and sometimes tuna in season. In winter, fish dinners and bouillabaisse offer a comforting treat. Recently, rockfish has also begun appearing on restaurant menus.