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

PEI requires a sport fishing licence for most freshwater fishing activities. If you plan to fish for trout or salmon in the province’s rivers, lakes, or streams, you must have the correct licence unless you meet a limited exemption.

1. Residents of Prince Edward Island

Residents aged 16 and older must hold a valid PEI Angling Licence to fish in freshwater.

• Residents under 16: No licence required, but must follow all regulations.

• Residents 60+ may be eligible for reduced fees depending on yearly policy updates.

2. Canadian Non-Residents

Visitors from other provinces must purchase a Non-Resident Angling Licence.

• Under 16: No licence required.

• 16 and older: Licence required.

3. Foreign Non-Residents

International visitors—including those from the U.S.—must also purchase a Non-Resident Licence to fish in freshwater.

• Under 16: No licence required.

• 16 and older: Licence required.

4. Indigenous Fishers

Mi’kmaq and other Indigenous peoples may fish without a recreational licence for food, social, or ceremonial purposes under treaty rights.
However, this does not apply to recreational sportfishing seasons or commercial harvesting without proper authorization.

5. Exceptions (Special Events)

PEI holds Free Family Fishing Weekends, during which anyone can fish without a licence, though all other regulations still apply.

No Licence Required for Saltwater Fishing

One of PEI’s unique features is that recreational saltwater fishing does not require a licence, except for specific species governed by federal rules, such as:

• Tuna (requires federal authorization)

• Certain shark species

• Striped bass (subject to seasons and limits but no licence required)

Most visitors fishing from beaches, wharves, or charter boats for mackerel or other common saltwater species do not need a licence.

Types of PEI Fishing Licences

PEI offers several licence types to fit different fishing needs and trip lengths.

1. Seasonal Angling Licence

This is the most common licence, valid for the entire freshwater fishing season, usually from April 15 to September 15, though salmon seasons and fall extensions vary.

Available to:

• Residents

• Canadian non-residents

• Foreign non-residents

2. Family Licence

PEI offers an affordable Family Angling Licence, allowing a household to fish together under a single permit.
Typically covers:

• Two adults

• Any children under 16

3. Salmon Licence (Special Waters)

Fishing for Atlantic salmon in designated rivers requires a special salmon licence, even if you already hold a regular angling licence.

These licences often include:

• Mandatory catch-and-release rules

• Barbless hook requirements

• Restricted river access

4. One-Day or Multi-Day Licences

Short-term options are available for visitors or occasional anglers.
These provide:

• 1-day coverage

• 3-day coverage

• 7-day coverage (depending on the year)

Fishing Seasons in PEI

The standard freshwater fishing season typically runs:

• April 15 to September 15 for trout

• Atlantic salmon seasons vary by river

• Some fall trout fishing extensions may apply in select waters

Always check PEI’s current Angling Summary, as seasons can shift due to conservation decisions.

Species You Can Fish With a PEI Licence

A PEI angling licence allows you to fish freshwater species such as:

• Brook trout (the most popular)

• Rainbow trout

• Brown trout

• Atlantic salmon (with salmon licence)

• Smallmouth bass (introduced)

Atlantic Salmon Note

Atlantic salmon regulations are extremely strict. In many rivers:

• Barbless hooks are mandatory

• Catch-and-release is required

• Access is limited to certain pools and dates

Salmon conservation is a high priority in PEI.

Catch Limits and Possession Rules

PEI has specific daily catch limits to protect fish stocks.

Brook Trout

• Daily limit: Usually 5 per day

• Size limits may apply depending on location

Rainbow & Brown Trout

• Often 3–5 daily, depending on watershed

Smallmouth Bass

• Managed as a non-native species

• Limits may differ or be catch-and-release only

Atlantic Salmon

• Highly restricted and usually catch-and-release only

Possession limits generally equal two days’ catch, but always confirm the current year’s regulations.

Gear Restrictions and Fishing Methods

PEI uses gear rules to promote ethical angling and conservation.

Barbless Hooks

Mandatory in salmon waters and in some catch-and-release areas.

Bait Restrictions

Some rivers require:

• Artificial lures only

• Fly-fishing only

• No natural bait

Lead Restrictions

To protect waterfowl and stream habitats, lead may be restricted in certain areas.

Night Fishing

Fishing at night is generally prohibited in freshwater on PEI.

How to Get a PEI Fishing Licence

PEI makes it quick and easy to obtain a fishing licence.

1. Buy Online (Fastest Option)

Use the PEI e-Licensing System  

Steps:

1. Create an e-licensing account.

2. Select “Angling Licence.”

3. Choose resident, Canadian non-resident, or foreign non-resident.

4. Pick your licence type (seasonal, family, salmon, daily, etc.).

5. Pay with a credit card.

6. Print your licence or save a digital copy to your phone.

Digital licences are accepted and convenient if checked by conservation officers.

2. Buy In Person

Licences are also sold at:

• Local tackle shops

• Gas stations

• Provincial offices

• Tourism centres

3. Through Lodges or Outfitters

Many fishing outfitters can issue licences or guide you through the online portal upon arrival.