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

Who Does NOT Need a Saskatchewan Fishing Licence?

Saskatchewan has several important exemptions:

1. Youth Under 16 (Residents & Non-Residents)

Children and teens under 16 can fish without a licence, whether they live in Saskatchewan or are visiting from elsewhere.
They must still follow:

• Catch limits

• Size limits

• Equipment restrictions

• Seasons and area rules

2. Saskatchewan Residents Aged 65 and Older

Seniors who are permanent residents of Saskatchewan do not need a fishing licence.
Note: Seniors visiting from another province do need a licence.

3. Indigenous Persons with Treaty or Aboriginal Rights

First Nations and Métis individuals with established rights may fish without a licence for food, social, or ceremonial purposes.
However, certain conservation rules still apply.

4. Free Fishing Weekend

Saskatchewan hosts two annual free fishing weekends:

• February (winter)

• July (summer)

During these weekends, anyone may fish without a licence, except in national parks.

Types of Fishing Licences in Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan offers several licence categories based on residency and how often you plan to fish. Understanding the options makes it easier to choose the right one.

1. Resident Licences

For Saskatchewan citizens and permanent residents.
Options include:

• Annual licence

• Three-day licence

• Senior licence (free, but proof of age/residency required)

2. Canadian Resident Licences

For anglers from other Canadian provinces.

Options:

• Annual

• Three-day

3. Non-Resident (International) Licences

For visitors from outside Canada.

Options:

• Annual

• Three-day

• One-day licence

4. Open Water vs. Ice Fishing

In Saskatchewan, one licence covers both open water and ice fishing. No separate winter licence is required.

What a Saskatchewan Fishing Licence Allows You to Do

A valid fishing licence lets you:

• Fish legally in Saskatchewan’s public waters

• Keep fish according to provincial limits

• Participate in both open-water and ice fishing seasons

• Access most lakes and rivers (except private or restricted areas)

It also supports conservation efforts:

• Fish population studies

• Habitat restoration

• Invasive species monitoring

• Compliance and enforcement

Where You Need a Fishing Licence

A fishing licence is required in:

• Provincial lakes

• Rivers

• Reservoirs

• Crown land waters

You do NOT need a licence:

• In national parks (federal regulations apply instead)

• For fishing on private property ponds if they are fully enclosed and stocked by the owner

Note: Many popular places like Last Mountain Lake, Lake Diefenbaker, Lac La Ronge, and Tobin Lake all require a provincial licence.

How to Get a Saskatchewan Fishing Licence

Getting a licence today is quick and easy. You can choose from three main methods:

1. Online Through the Saskatchewan Licensing System

The fastest and most convenient option.

• Go to the HAL (Hunting, Angling & Trapping Licence) online portal

• Create an account or log in

• Select the fishing licence type you need

• Pay securely online

• Print your licence or store the digital version on your phone

This system is available 24/7.

2. In-Person Retailers

Many local businesses sell fishing licences, including:

• Service Saskatchewan locations

• Cabela’s and Canadian Tire

• Sporting goods shops

• Many northern lodge operators

Great option if you want help choosing the right licence.

3. Through Licensed Outfitters

If you're booking a guided fishing trip, many outfitters can help you purchase the correct licence before you arrive.

Fishing Regulations You Must Follow

Having a licence doesn’t mean you can keep anything you catch. Saskatchewan has strict rules to maintain healthy fish populations.

You must follow:

• Daily catch limits

• Possession limits

• Size limits (slot limits)

• Closed seasons

• Bait and gear regulations

• Area-specific rules, especially in the northern zones

Always check the current Saskatchewan Anglers Guide before fishing.