First Cast is an annual weekend program hosted by the Miramichi Salmon Association that introduces fly fishing with no age limit! It’s an excellent opportunity for a “relatively experienced” fisherman to bring along someone who is new to the sport and, with the help of volunteers from the MSA, participate in a two-day mentoring experience guaranteed to be the start of a lifetime of fly fishing and a new appreciation for our natural environment where our cherished Atlantic salmon roam. Whether you have a child or grandchild that you’ve always wanted to share your passion for the sport with, or if you’ve always wanted to learn about fly fishing and never had the opportunity, we encourage you to take part!

Our 2025 program will begin on Saturday, June 28 at the Atlantic Salmon Museum in Doaktown, and carry through to Sunday, June 29 at a private camp on the Miramichi River. Saturday’s activities will include a casual classroom session, a tour of the Museum, a tour of the Miramichi Canoe Company, and riverside casting instruction. On Sunday, there will be a full day of supervised fishing. Lunch will be provided at both venues, compliments of the Atlantic Salmon Museum and the Miramichi Salmon Association.