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

In Manitoba, anyone who wants to angle in provincial waters generally needs a valid fishing licence, unless they qualify for one of the limited exemptions listed below.

1. Residents of Manitoba

All Manitoba residents ages 16 to 64 must carry a valid fishing licence when fishing.

• Residents under 16: No licence required, but must follow catch and possession limits.

• Residents 65 and older: Exempt from needing a licence, but must carry valid ID showing age.

2. Canadian Non-Residents

If you live elsewhere in Canada (Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, etc.) you must obtain a Canadian Non-Resident Licence to fish in Manitoba.
Age rules apply:

• Under 16: No licence required.

• 16 and older: Licence required.

3. Foreign Non-Residents

Visitors from the United States or any other country must buy a Non-Resident (Foreign) fishing licence.
Age rules:

• Under 16: No licence required.

• 16 and older: Licence required.

4. Indigenous Exemptions

Registered Indigenous people in Manitoba may fish without a licence for food purposes, using their Aboriginal rights.
However:

• Commercial fishing requires proper permits.

• Provincial regulations may still apply in certain conservation situations.

5. Armed Forces Personnel

Members of the Canadian Armed Forces who are actively stationed in Manitoba are considered residents for licensing purposes.

Types of Manitoba Fishing Licences

Manitoba offers several licence categories to match different fishing needs. The main distinction is between Conservation and Regular licences.

1. Conservation Licence

Designed for anglers who want to fish but don’t need to keep high limits. It has reduced catch and possession limits, helping preserve fish stocks.

Great for:

• Catch-and-release anglers

• Families

• Short trips

2. Regular Licence

This is the standard licence with full catch limits. Ideal for anglers who want the maximum harvest allowed.

Manitoba Fishing Licence Types by Residency

Manitoba Residents

• Resident Conservation Licence

• Resident Regular Licence

Canadian Non-Residents

• Conservation Licence

• Regular Licence

Foreign Non-Residents

• Conservation Licence

• Regular Licence

Licence Duration Options

Depending on the licence type, Manitoba offers:

• Annual licences (valid until April 30 following the season)

• 5-day licences for tourists

• 1-day licences (varies by residency and licence category)

This flexibility makes it easy for visiting anglers to pick the right option for their trip.

Where Manitoba Fishing Licences Are Valid

A Manitoba fishing licence allows angling:

• In all provincial lakes and rivers

• From shore, boat, or ice

• During open-water or ice-fishing seasons

• Except in special regulation areas (e.g., certain ecological reserves)

Always check Manitoba’s latest fishing guide for zone-specific restrictions, as the province is divided into multiple angling zones with unique rules.

How to Get a Manitoba Fishing Licence

Manitoba has made the process quick, modern, and user-friendly. Getting your licence takes just a few minutes.

1. Buy Online (Fastest Option)

The easiest way is through the Manitoba elicensing system:

Manitoba e-licensing portal

Steps:

1. Create an account (or log in if you already have one).

2. Choose "Fishing Licence."

3. Select your residency status (resident, Canadian non-resident, foreign non-resident).

4. Pick Conservation or Regular.

5. Choose the duration (annual, 1-day, 5-day).

6. Pay by credit card.

7. Download and print your licence OR save it on your phone.

Digital copies are accepted as long as they’re accessible.

2. Buy In Person

You can also purchase your licence at:

• Sporting-goods stores

• Canadian Tire locations

• Hardware stores in rural communities

• Lodge and outfitter offices

• Some convenience stores

It’s always best to call the store beforehand to ensure they sell licences.

3. Through Lodges and Outfitters

Many fly-in lodges and fishing camps can issue licences directly upon your arrival, making the process seamless.

Fishing Without a Licence in Manitoba

Fishing without a proper licence (unless exempt) can result in:

• Fines

• Confiscation of gear

• Possible suspension of fishing privileges

Wardens and conservation officers actively patrol waters, especially during peak seasons.

Catch Limits and Possession Limits

Your chosen licence type directly affects your allowed limits.

Conservation Licence Limits

Reduced limits — typically roughly half of regular licence limits.

Examples (approximate, varies by zone and year):

• Walleye/Sauger: 4

• Northern Pike: 4

• Trout: 1-2

Regular Licence Limits

Full limits as defined by Manitoba’s angling regulations.

Examples:

• Walleye/Sauger: 6

• Northern Pike: 6-10 depending on zone

• Trout: Higher limits in stocked waters

For exact limits, always check Manitoba’s annual fishing regulations, as limits may vary by:

• Region

• Season

• Species

• Conservation closures

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Additional Manitoba Fishing Rules You Should Know

Manitoba enforces several conservation measures to protect fish populations.

1. Barbless Hook Rule

Manitoba requires barbless hooks, or barbs must be pinched down. This minimizes injury during catch-and-release.

2. Lead Restrictions

Lead sinkers and jigs may have size restrictions in protected areas.

3. Seasons and Closures

Certain waters close during spawning periods, especially for:

• Walleye

• Lake Trout

• Northern Pike

4. Ice Fishing Rules

Ice shacks may need registration depending on the lake and region.
You are also responsible for removing shelters before spring thaw.

5. Live Bait Rules

Transporting live bait between lakes is restricted to prevent spreading aquatic invasive species.

Fishing in Manitoba’s Special Waters

Some areas have extra rules because they offer trophy-class fish or are ecologically sensitive. Examples include:

• Lac du Bonnet area

• Red River (famous for greenback walleye!)

• Lake Winnipeg

• Athapapuskow Lake

• Remote Fly-In Lakes

Always verify whether your chosen location has:

• Size restrictions

• Slot limits

• Mandatory release rules