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

In Nova Scotia, licences apply primarily to inland freshwater fishing (such as trout, smallmouth bass, chain pickerel, and other species). Saltwater/recreational ocean fishing currently does not require a general recreational licence, although certain species—like Atlantic salmon—have special rules.

Here’s who must carry a licence when freshwater fishing:

1. Nova Scotia Residents

Residents aged 16 and older must hold a valid Nova Scotia Sportfishing Licence to fish in inland waters.

• Residents under 16: No licence required.

• Residents 65+: Still require a licence, but the fee is reduced.

2. Canadian Non-Residents

Canadian visitors from other provinces or territories must purchase a Non-Resident Licence (annual or temporary) to fish freshwater species.

• Under 16: No licence required (follow all limits).

• 16 and older: Licence required.

3. Foreign Non-Residents

U.S. and international visitors must carry a Non-Resident Licence as well.

• Under 16: No licence required.

• 16 and older: Licence required.

4. Indigenous Rights Holders

Mi’kmaq and other Indigenous peoples exercising treaty or Aboriginal harvesting rights may fish without a recreational licence for food, social, or ceremonial purposes.

These rights do not extend to:

• Recreational sportfishing

• Commercial harvesting without proper permits

5. Special Cases

You do not need a freshwater sportfishing licence when:

• Participating in a registered Free Family Fishing Weekend

• Fishing saltwater species for recreation (exceptions apply for certain species)

What Species Require a Nova Scotia Fishing Licence?

You need a freshwater licence to catch:

• Brook trout

• Brown trout

• Rainbow trout

• Smallmouth bass

• Chain pickerel

• White perch

• Yellow perch

• Sunfish

• Speckled trout

• Lake trout (in open seasons)

Important Exception: Atlantic Salmon

Atlantic salmon fishing requires:

• A separate licence, issued only in limited areas

• Strict catch-and-release rules

• Mandatory barbless hooks

Salmon licences cost more and require anglers to follow unique zone regulations.

Types of Nova Scotia Fishing Licences

Nova Scotia offers several sportfishing licence formats:

1. Annual Licence (Resident or Non-Resident)

Valid for the standard fishing season, which typically runs April 1 to March 31 the following year.

2. Single-Day Licence

Great for short visits or spontaneous day trips.
Available for both residents and non-residents.

3. Seven-Day Licence

Ideal for tourists visiting Nova Scotia for a week-long vacation.

4. Seniors Licence

Reduced-fee licence available for residents aged 65+.

5. Salmon Licence

Separate category with stricter rules and higher fees.

Seasons and Freshwater Regulations

Nova Scotia’s freshwater fishing season usually:

• Opens April 1

• Closes September 30 for most species

However, species-specific and region-specific regulations apply. The province is divided into Inland Fisheries Zones, each with unique rules regarding:

• Open seasons

• Daily bag limits

• Size restrictions

• Gear restrictions (e.g., artificial fly only)

Always check the Nova Scotia Anglers’ Handbook, which is updated yearly.

Bag and Possession Limits

Limits vary by species. Some examples:

Brook Trout

• Daily limit: 2–5 depending on zone

• Barbed hooks allowed unless otherwise stated

Rainbow & Brown Trout

• Daily limit: Often 2 or 5, depending on water body

Smallmouth Bass

• Daily limit: Often 2

• Some lakes have catch-and-release only

Chain Pickerel

• Daily limit: Often 25

• This is because pickerel are invasive and managed to reduce spread

Limits may change yearly, so consulting the latest guide is essential.

How to Get a Nova Scotia Fishing Licence

Nova Scotia has made the licensing process fast and accessible.

1. Buy Online (Fastest Method)

Use the Nova Scotia Hunt & Fish Licensing System.

Steps:

1. Visit the provincial online licensing portal 

2. Create an account or log in.

3. Select the sportfishing licence type.

4. Choose resident or non-resident category.

5. Select duration (annual, 1-day, 7-day, salmon, etc.).

6. Pay online by credit card.

7. Print your licence or save a digital copy.

Digital copies are accepted as long as they are accessible on your phone.

2. Buy In Person

Licences are available at:

• Service Nova Scotia centres

• Many gas stations and convenience stores

• Fishing tackle shops

• Tourism offices

• Some provincial parks and lodges

It’s always wise to confirm availability before visiting.

3. Through Lodges & Outfitters

Guided fishing trips often include licence assistance.
Some outfitters can issue licences directly or help you register online.