A St. Lawrence River Fishing Tradition: The Shore Dinner
A St. Lawrence River Fishing Tradition: The Shore Dinner
Nestled along the scenic St. Lawrence River, a cherished tradition continues to thrive—a ritual that transcends fishing and speaks to the heart of camaraderie, heritage, and hearty outdoor cooking. Known as the Shore Dinner, this time-honored feast is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of the river, the catch, and the bond between those who come together to enjoy both.
More Than the Catch
For anglers of the St. Lawrence, the day isn’t complete when the fish are reeled in. The real magic begins when the fishing lines are tucked away and the boat glides to a quiet stretch of shore. There, an experienced guide takes the lead—gathering driftwood or firewood and kindling a roaring fire. The flames serve not only to cook the meal but to warm the spirit, casting a comforting glow as preparations begin.
Coffee comes first. A blackened pot filled with water is set over the fire to boil. As it percolates, a picnic basket is unpacked, revealing a classic, down-to-earth spread: potatoes, corn on the cob, crisp lettuce, sugar, butter, cream—and, of course, the day’s fresh catch.
The Classic Shore Dinner Menu
The Shore Dinner unfolds in courses, each rooted in tradition and local flavor. It begins with fatback sandwiches, a humble yet deeply satisfying appetizer. Thick slices of pork fatback are fried until crispy and golden, then paired with sautéed onions and served between slices of plain white bread. A fresh garden salad, lightly dressed with the region's famous Thousand Islands dressing, provides a refreshing contrast.
Then comes the main attraction: the fish. Cleaned and prepared right by the water’s edge, the fillets are lightly breaded and fried to perfection in the fatback drippings, giving them a rich, golden crust. Paired with salted potatoes and buttered sweet corn, this part of the meal is both hearty and nostalgic—a tribute to the river’s bounty.
But the Shore Dinner has one more surprise: French toast for dessert. This version is unlike anything served at breakfast. Thick slices of bread are dipped in a batter of eggs, sugar, and cream, then fried in the same pan. The result? Puffy, crispy edges with a custardy center, topped with maple syrup, a dash of cream, and perhaps a touch of brandy for good measure.
More Than a Meal
As the final course is savored and the fire dies down to embers, mugs of strong fisherman’s coffee are passed around. With steam rising into the crisp evening air, guests relax, reflect on the day’s catches and close calls, and gaze out over the river that has brought them all together.
The Shore Dinner is a living tradition—an open-air banquet that honors the past while creating new stories to be retold with each return trip to the St. Lawrence. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-time visitor, this riverside ritual promises more than full bellies. It offers connection, celebration, and an unforgettable taste of life along the water.