Tides in Quebec
St. Lawrence River, Saguenay, Gaspésie and Baie des Chaleurs
Fluvaro provides tide predictions for the main coastal and estuarine areas of Quebec. Whether you're planning a wade fishing trip on the St. Lawrence, a sea kayak excursion in the Saguenay, or a beach day in Gaspésie, knowing the high and low tide times is essential for your safety and success.
Tidal areas covered in Quebec
Quebec features great diversity in tidal regimes depending on the region. Here are the main areas covered by Fluvaro:
- St. Lawrence River — Semi-diurnal tides (two cycles per day) affect the river downstream of Trois-Rivières. Amplitude can reach 5–6 metres at Quebec City and gradually decreases further downstream.
- Saguenay Fjord — The Saguenay is a fjord subject to significant tides, with strong currents at certain narrows. Tides propagate into the Saguenay from the St. Lawrence.
- Gaspésie — The shores of the Gaspé Peninsula, including the Gaspé Bay area, experience moderate tides of about 1–2 metres. Tide times at Gaspé are an essential planning tool for salmon, mackerel, and striped bass fishing.
- Baie des Chaleurs — Baie des Chaleurs, between Gaspésie and New Brunswick, has regular tides with amplitudes of 1–2 metres. It is renowned for Atlantic salmon, striped bass, and mackerel fishing.
- North Shore and Sept-Îles — The north shore of the St. Lawrence features significant tides, with amplitudes exceeding 4 metres in some locations.
- Îles de la Madeleine — Although located in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the Magdalen Islands have a moderate tidal regime with small amplitudes of about 0.5–1 metre.
How Fluvaro tide predictions work
Tide predictions in Fluvaro are calculated locally using harmonic algorithms calibrated on official historical observations. Each station has its own parameters to account for local coastal geography.
A key advantage: the calculation is 100% local, meaning the app works even without an Internet connection once the base data has been downloaded. Ideal for remote areas with limited cell coverage.
Predictions include:
- Time and height of each high tide (high water)
- Time and height of each low tide (low water)
- Continuous water level curve over 24 hours and beyond
- Date navigation to plan ahead
Tides and outdoor activities in Quebec
Knowing the tides is essential for many activities practiced on Quebec's coasts and estuaries:
- Wade fishing — Low tide exposes shallows and makes fishing areas accessible that are unreachable at high tide. Essential for sea-run trout and Atlantic salmon fishing at river mouths.
- Sea kayaking — Tidal currents can reach several knots in certain passages. Planning around the tide optimizes effort and avoids dangerous situations.
- Beach and swimming — The tide determines the extent of the available beach and water depth in shallow areas.
- Marine wildlife observation — Low tides reveal rocky intertidal zones and their inhabitants (mussels, periwinkles, sea stars). Coastal wildlife is much more accessible at low tide.
- Coastal navigation — Boaters and fishers must account for tides to access certain anchorages and navigate shallow areas.
Frequently asked questions about tides in Quebec
How do I check the tide schedule in Quebec?
Fluvaro displays high and low tide predictions for the main tidal areas of Quebec. Data is accessible directly in the app, with date navigation to plan your outings in advance.
Are there tides in the St. Lawrence River?
Yes. The St. Lawrence is subject to tides along a large portion of its course, downstream of Trois-Rivières. Variations can reach 5–6 metres at Quebec City. The further downstream you go (Rimouski, Rivière-du-Loup, Matane), the more pronounced the tides.
Where does Fluvaro's tide data come from?
Predictions are calculated locally using calibrated harmonic algorithms. The app works offline after the first load.
What is the tide schedule at Gaspé?
The schedule varies daily according to lunar and solar cycles. Check Fluvaro for precise predictions at your desired date. Generally, Gaspé has two tidal cycles per day (semi-diurnal) with amplitudes of 1–2 metres.