The Southwest Miramichi River is one of Atlantic Canada's most legendary fishing destinations, flowing northeast from its headwaters in the hills above the village of Juniper through the heart of New Brunswick before joining the broader Miramichi watershed system. This storied river has attracted sport fishermen from around the world for more than a century, and for good reason — the Miramichi system as a whole produces nearly half of all rod-caught Atlantic salmon in North America, with some 100,000 salmon ranging from 1.4 to over 13 kg (3–30 lbs) making their way upriver every summer and fall. The Main Southwest Miramichi is particularly notable as one of the few remaining rivers in North America where fishing rights are still privately owned, meaning much of the best water is accessed through licensed outfitters and private pool arrangements. The lower stretch near Blackville — widely known as the "Salmon Capital of the Miramichi" — is considered the most productive stretch of the entire river system, as fish are at their freshest as they begin their upriver journey.