Alberta Fishing Licence: Who Needs One, and How to Get It

Fishing in Alberta is more than a pastime — it’s a way to enjoy the province’s stunning landscapes, from the foothills of the Rockies to the peaceful northern lakes. Alberta offers exceptional opportunities for catching trout, walleye, pike, and perch, but before you cast your line, you must ensure you have the proper fishing licence. Licensing supports fish management, conservation, and sustainable angling for future generations. This guide explains who needs a fishing licence in Alberta, the types of licences available, costs, and how to buy yours — whether you’re a resident, visitor, youth, or senior.

1. Why Fishing Licences Are Required in Alberta

Fishing licences aren’t just paperwork — they are vital tools for conservation. The money collected from licence fees funds fish stocking programs, habitat protection, enforcement, and research. Every licence sold helps Alberta maintain healthy fish populations and improve recreational opportunities for anglers.

Alberta’s licensing system ensures that fishing pressure is managed responsibly. It also educates anglers on regulations — such as limits, seasons, and species protection — that keep the ecosystem balanced.

2. Who Needs a Fishing Licence in Alberta?

In Alberta, a fishing licence is generally required for anyone 16 years of age or older who wishes to fish in public waters. However, there are some important distinctions based on residency, age, and other factors.

A. Alberta Residents

An Alberta resident is a person who has their primary residence in Alberta and has lived in the province for at least six consecutive months before applying for a licence.
If you meet this requirement, you must obtain an Alberta Sportfishing Licence before fishing in any provincial waters, except in a few special cases (see exemptions below).

B. Canadian Residents (Non-Albertans)

A Canadian resident is someone who lives in another province or territory but has lived in Canada for at least six consecutive months during the past year.
Canadian residents who are visiting Alberta to fish must also buy an Alberta Sportfishing Licence, though at a different rate than Alberta residents.

C. Non-Residents (International Visitors)

Visitors from outside Canada are welcome to fish in Alberta’s lakes and rivers but must hold a Non-Resident Sportfishing Licence. These licences are available for varying durations (single day, seven days, or full season) and cost more than resident licences.

D. Age-Based Rules

• Under 16 years old: Youth under 16 can fish without purchasing a licence, but they must follow all provincial fishing regulations, including catch and possession limits.

• 65 years and older (Alberta residents): Seniors who are permanent Alberta residents can fish without buying a licence, but they must still comply with all regulations and carry identification proving their age and residence.

3. Types of Fishing Licences in Alberta

Alberta has one main licence for recreational fishing — the Sportfishing Licence — but several variations exist depending on residency and duration.

A. Alberta Resident Sportfishing Licence

This licence allows Alberta residents to fish in all public waters during open seasons. It is valid from April 1 to March 31 of the following year.

B. Canadian Resident Sportfishing Licence

This licence applies to anglers who live elsewhere in Canada but want to fish in Alberta. It carries a slightly higher fee than the resident licence but provides the same access and privileges.

C. Non-Resident Alien Sportfishing Licence

For international visitors, this licence allows fishing throughout the province. Non-residents can choose between one-day, seven-day, or annual licences depending on how long they plan to fish.

D. Win Cards (Wildlife Identification Numbers)

To purchase a sportfishing licence in Alberta, you must first have a WiN card (Wildlife Identification Number) — a permanent, 10-digit identification number used for all hunting and fishing licences.
Your WiN card links your information to your licence record and must be renewed every five years.

4. Licence Fees (Approximate 2025 Rates)

Licence fees vary by residency and duration. The following are general estimates based on current rates (subject to change).

Youth under 16 and seniors 65+ (residents only) do not need to purchase a licence but must still adhere to all fishing laws and carry proof of eligibility.

5. Before You Fish: Alberta’s Fishing Regulations

Having a licence doesn’t mean you can fish anywhere, anytime. Alberta’s Sportfishing Regulations specify open seasons, daily catch limits, and gear restrictions by zone.

The province is divided into five major Fish Management Zones (FMZs):

1. Prairie Zone

2. Parkland Zone

3. Northern Boreal Zone

4. Foothills Zone

5. Mountain Zone

Each zone has unique rules regarding:

• Species allowed to be caught

• Minimum and maximum fish sizes

• Bag and possession limits

• Seasonal closures for spawning protection

For example, walleye and pike are regulated under a tag system in some lakes, meaning you must draw or buy a specific tag to keep them. Always review the latest Alberta Guide to Sportfishing Regulations before fishing.