About Murdock Fisheries
Murdock Fisheries is a trusted name in the local fishing community, known for supplying high-quality bait and custom-made smelt and gaspereau fishing nets. These nets are the result of a time-honored craft that combines precision with deep local knowledge of river conditions and fish behavior. The bait is conveniently packaged in 40–44 lb units. Serving both commercial and recreational fishers, Murdock Fisheries ensures every batch is fresh, reliable, and ready to help you land the big catch.
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Nets & Bait
We custom make smelt and gaspereau nets to your specifications. We offer high-quality bait trusted by both commercial and sport fishermen. Smelts are a tasty treat for food for consumption. Gaspereau are commercially important—especially as bait fish in the lobster and tuna fisheries.
Smelts and Gaspereau Nets – Custom Made
Custom smelt and gaspereau fishing net making is a time-honored craft that blends precision with local knowledge of river conditions and fish behavior.
Smelt nets are typically made using fine mesh sizes ranging from 7/8 inch to 15/16 inch, designed to catch these small, fast-moving fish without harming their delicate bodies.
In contrast, gaspereau nets require a larger mesh, usually between 1 1/2 inches to 1 3/4 inches, to accommodate the broader, stronger fish while allowing smaller species to pass through.
Each net is carefully hand-measured, cut, and knotted to suit specific fishing locations and tides, ensuring optimal performance during the seasonal runs. Whether made from traditional twine or modern synthetic materials, these custom nets reflect generations of maritime skill and adaptability.
Gaspereau – The Unsung Heroes of Atlantic Waters
Gaspereau are small, silvery fish found in the coastal waters and freshwater rivers of Atlantic Canada. Known for their seasonal spring run and historical importance, gaspereau play a key role in local ecosystems and traditional fishing practices.
Why Gaspereau are a Top Choice:
- Mild Flavor, Traditional Use:
Gaspereau have a soft, oily texture and a subtle flavor often enjoyed smoked or pickled. Long valued by Indigenous and Acadian communities, they’ve been a seasonal staple for centuries. - Nutritional Value:
These fish are a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, supporting heart and brain health while offering a traditional, locally harvested food option.
Commercial Value:
Gaspereau are commercially important—especially as bait fish in the lobster and tuna fisheries. They are harvested using weirs, dip nets, and gillnets, then sold fresh, frozen, or salted. Their seasonal availability also supports small-scale, local economies in Atlantic Canada.
Available - 44 lbs. Frozen. Bait Only!
Smelts – Small Fish, Big Value
Smelts are small, silvery fish found in cold, freshwater and coastal marine environments. Smelts play a big role in the fishing industry, prized for their delicate flavor, nutritional value, and versatility.
Why Smelts Are a Smart Catch:
- Delicate and Delicious:
Smelts are known for their mild, slightly sweet taste and tender texture. They’re often enjoyed whole—fried, baked, or grilled—making them a favorite in fish fries and gourmet dishes alike. - Nutrient-Rich:
Don’t let their size fool you—smelts are packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients, making them a healthy and sustainable seafood choice. - Versatile Market Use:
Smelts are sold fresh, frozen, or breaded and ready-to-cook. They're popular in retail seafood markets, restaurants, and ethnic grocery stores. - Bait Fish Use:
Their small size and natural scent also make smelts ideal as live or frozen bait for targeting game fish like salmon, pike, and lake trout.
Currently out of stock.
Mackerel – A Vital Catch in the Fishing Industry
Mackerel are sleek, fast-swimming fish known for their vibrant blue-green coloring and rich, flavorful meat. These fish are a staple in the commercial fishing industry and a favorite among seafood lovers.
Why Mackerel Matters:
- Rich in Nutrition:
Mackerel is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making it a heart-healthy choice that’s in high demand around the world. - Premium Bait:
Mackerel is also a go-to bait fish, widely used by commercial and sport fishermen to attract larger species like tuna and marlin. - Sustainable & Efficient:
When responsibly harvested, mackerel offers a sustainable seafood option. Lower-grade fish are processed into fishmeal and oil for use in aquaculture feed, pet food, and fertilizers—ensuring nothing goes to waste. - Sport Fishing Favorite:
With their speed and strength, mackerel provide an exciting catch for recreational anglers in coastal waters.
Currently out of stock.
Oysters – Nature’s Finest from the Sea
Oysters are bivalve mollusks harvested from both saltwater and brackish coastal waters. Very popular whether served raw on the half shell or used in cooked dishes.
Why Oysters Are Always in Demand:
- Premium Taste Experience:
Oysters offer a briny, ocean-fresh flavor that varies by region, often described as “merroir”—like terroir for wine. They’re a delicacy enjoyed raw, steamed, grilled, baked, or fried. - Highly Nutritious:
Oysters are rich in protein, zinc, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids. They’re also one of the best natural sources of vitamin B12, making them a nutrient powerhouse. - Aquaculture Success Story:
Most oysters on the market today are farmed in sustainable aquaculture operations. Oyster farming supports local economies while improving water quality and marine habitats. - Year-Round Market:
With advances in aquaculture and cold-chain logistics, oysters are now available fresh year-round, catering to restaurants, seafood markets, and gourmet food suppliers. - Shucked or In-Shell:
Oysters are sold live in the shell, pre-shucked in containers, or smoked and canned—offering a variety of options for chefs, distributors, and consumers. - Eco-Friendly and Sustainable:
Oysters are filter feeders that help clean the water around them. Their cultivation requires no feed, making them one of the most environmentally friendly seafood options available.
Currently out of stock.
