mary robertson

Mary Robertson, LJI Journalist

CASCAPEDIA-ST. JULES – The grand opening of the Gaspé Coastal Fishing Lodge on May 16 was an exciting event for its founders, Sarah Nellis, Andrew Murphy, and all who worked hard for more than a year to turn an abandoned old building into a new fishing lodge on the Grand Cascapedia River. 

It was also a reason for the community to gather at the Lodge and see the renovations on what was once a local landmark. Fishing enthusiasts and the local community were given tours of the new lodge and told about the historical significance of the Nadeau family and their contributions to the town more than a century ago. 

Originally from Bromont in the Eastern Townships, Andrew first came to the Bay of Chaleurs in 2018 to explore the possibilities for striped bass fishing in the area. By chance, he met Sarah, a salmon-fishing guide, who grew up in Cascapedia-St. Jules. Together, they shared their passion for fishing and realized that they wanted to build a life together in Sarah’s hometown. 

Andrew started Gaspe Coastal, a guiding operation that initially focused on striped bass. His efforts helped to introduce and grow the bass fishing industry in the region, something rarely seen in Eastern Canada. Sarah later became a partner in the business, and over time, they expanded their offerings to include Atlantic salmon fishing adventures. It wasn’t long after that they started to work on a business plan to build their own fishing lodge. 

“We always knew a fishing lodge was part of the long-term plan,” says Sarah. “Our home was already a lodge of sorts, with guests coming and going all summer long. Now, we’ve created a space that welcomes guests more formally but still feels like home.” 

Their lodge in the centre of Cascapedia-St-Jules was built by Edmund Nadeau, whose father, Peter, had been a successful entrepreneur in the early 1900s in Grand Cascapedia. Lovingly restored and redesigned, the lodge now offers occupancy for 20 guests, with 10 guest rooms, five bathrooms, and luxurious bedding. It is decorated in a warm, lived-in decor that includes everything from a Montreal Canadiens jersey to vintage fishing reels and antlers. “We built the kind of lodge we would want to visit,” she says. “A place with world-class angling, delicious food and wine, and an atmosphere full of personality.” 

Their guiding team is young, dynamic, and deeply passionate about fishing and hospitality. With an experienced chef preparing gourmet meals and a program that blends luxury and wilderness, the lodge is already making waves among anglers from Canada, the United States, and Europe. 

While Atlantic salmon remains a major draw, the couple emphasizes the potential of striped bass fishing. “Striped bass are often misunderstood,” explains Sarah. “They’re a native species and a true conservation success story. Developing this fishery could bring enormous economic benefits to our region.” 

With an eye on future expansion, including possibilities like hunting and backcountry skiing, the couple remains focused on offering fishing adventures. “We want this lodge to be more than just a business. In the off-season, we hope it becomes a community hub – a place where locals feel just as welcome as guests from away,” she underlines. 

When asked about why they chose to build their lodge in Cascapedia-St. Jules, Sarah says, “I feel like this place is special. We both felt that it was important to bring the old Nadeau House back to life and to give as much, if not more, back to the community that I’ve gotten so much from. And Andrew, although he’s not from here, he really loves this place, and it’s our home!’ 

Sarah and Andrew got married on May 31, in what they described as a “beautiful and joyful celebration.” What began as a fishing adventure has turned into a heartfelt business venture and a new chapter for a young couple, whose love of fishing, nature, and the community of Cascapedia-St. Jules has given them many reasons to build an exciting future together.