The American eel, a fascinating and mysterious fish, is well-known to Quebec anglers for its serpentine silhouette. Although it is not the most sought-after species for sport fishing due to its often accidental capture while fishing for other fish, it remains an interesting challenge. It is capable of delivering a vigorous fight thanks to its muscular and sinuous body. Found in many rivers and lakes in Quebec, it is mostly present in freshwater, but it can also be found in brackish waters. The American eel is also famous for its incredible migration to the Sargasso Sea to reproduce, a journey that inspires admiration and curiosity from biologists and anglers worldwide.

The American eel is distinguished by its elongated, serpentine body, which can reach up to 1.2 meters (about 4 feet) in females, while males are generally smaller, around 0.5 meters (about 1.6 feet). Its color often varies from olive brown to dark green, with a lighter, often yellowish belly. Young eels, called elvers, are transparent and become pigmented as they age. The eel's scales are very small and deeply embedded in the skin, giving its skin a smooth and slimy appearance. Its mouth is wide with powerful jaws equipped with fine, sharp teeth. The dorsal, caudal, and anal fins are fused, forming a single long fin line that surrounds the back of the body. Females, often more massive, are also wider than males, especially during the spawning period.

The American eel is widespread in most of Quebec's rivers and lakes, from the St. Lawrence watersheds to the northern rivers. It is particularly abundant in the St. Lawrence River and its tributaries, as well as in Lake Champlain. Although less common in northern regions where waters are colder, it can adapt to a wide variety of aquatic environments. However, it is absent from high-altitude regions where water temperature remains constantly low.

The American eel prefers freshwater and brackish waters, often found in rivers, lakes, and estuaries. It favors areas with muddy or sandy bottoms where it can hide and hunt. It is often observed near submerged structures, such as rocks, tree roots, and aquatic plants. It adapts well to calm waters and moderate currents. Eels are generally more active at night, preferring warmer waters, around 68 °F, although they can tolerate temperatures ranging from 39 °F to 86 °F.

The life cycle of the American eel begins in the Sargasso Sea, where adults reproduce and die. The larvae, called leptocephali, drift with the Gulf Stream to the North American coasts. After 1 to 2 years, they transform into transparent elvers and migrate to freshwater to grow. Upon reaching sexual maturity, often between 8 and 12 years, the eels begin their long journey back to the Sargasso Sea to reproduce. Spring → Migration to freshwater → Summer → Growth and feeding → Autumn → Preparation for migration → Winter → Migration to the Sargasso Sea.

The American eel is generally solitary, although it can be seen in groups during migration. It is not particularly territorial and often moves in search of food. The eel is primarily nocturnal, hiding during the day in mud or under submerged objects. It is not very sensitive to noise, but changes in temperature and pressure can influence its activity. It is more active in cloudy or rainy weather.

The diet of the American eel evolves with age. Young eels primarily feed on small aquatic invertebrates, while adults add fish, crustaceans, and other small aquatic animals to their menu. They are opportunistic and adapt to the availability of food. In winter, their metabolism slows down and they eat little, mainly feeding in spring and summer.

In spring, the eel becomes more active after winter, actively searching for food. Summer is the best season for eel fishing, as they are most active and feed abundantly. In autumn, they prepare for migration, which can make fishing more difficult. In winter, their activity decreases significantly. The eel is more active at night and in cloudy weather, and it prefers warmer waters, which influences its behavior according to the seasons.

For the American eel, lures are generally not as effective as natural baits, but if you choose to use lures, go for dark colors like black or brown in murky waters. In clear water, silver or gold lures can mimic the small fish that eels feed on. Favor soft lures and jigs that can be animated near the bottom to mimic an injured prey.

For fishing the American eel, a sturdy 6 to 7-foot rod with moderate action is recommended. A medium-sized spinning reel with a 10 to 15 lb line is generally sufficient. Use hooks size 4 to 6, strong enough to withstand vigorous fights. A fluorocarbon leader can help avoid the eel's sharp teeth. Ensure your equipment is saltwater-resistant if fishing in brackish water.

The eel is slippery and difficult to handle. Use a damp cloth to better grip it without damaging it. If you choose to release it, do so quickly to minimize stress. For a photo, hold it firmly but gently, and avoid keeping it out of the water for too long.

American eels have several predators in Quebec, including large fish like pike and muskellunge. Aquatic birds such as herons and ospreys can also prey on young eels. Mammals like otters and minks are also potential predators.

The American eel is considered a species of concern in Quebec due to habitat loss and overfishing. Regulations often impose restrictions on eel fishing to ensure its conservation. Catch-and-release is encouraged to help maintain viable populations.