Wondering how to obtain a fishing license in Canada?
Whether you’re a Canadian resident or a tourist planning a fishing trip, you’ll need a valid fishing license to cast a line legally. This complete 2025 guide explains how to get your license, which one you need based on your location and residency, and what documents and fees to expect.
We also cover online portals for each province, age-based exemptions, indigenous fishing rights, and accessible options for anglers with disabilities. Read on to fish legally, responsibly, and stress-free across Canada’s beautiful waterways.
Quick Summary
- Residents and non-residents need a license to fish legally in Canada.
- Application requirements vary by province or territory.
- Licenses can be purchased online or in-person.
- Fees differ based on age, residency, and license type.
- Special programs exist for veterans, Indigenous anglers, and people with disabilities.
- Follow catch limits, zone restrictions, and fishing seasons to avoid fines.
1. Do You Need a Fishing License in Canada?
Who Needs One?
Most individuals aged 16 or older must carry a valid fishing license. Exceptions include:
- Children (under 16 or 18, depending on province)
- Seniors (varies by region—some receive free or reduced licenses)
- Indigenous peoples exercising treaty rights
- Participants on designated free fishing weekends
Residency Definitions
- Resident: Lived in the province/territory for at least 6 consecutive months
- Non-resident: All others, including visitors from other provinces or countries
2. How to Get a Fishing License in Canada
Online Purchase Options
Most provinces and territories allow residents and non-residents to purchase licenses online.
In-Person Purchase Locations
- Authorized retail stores (bait shops, outdoor retailers)
- Government service centres (e.g., ServiceOntario)
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Fishing License
Ready to fish? Here’s exactly how to apply for your fishing license in Canada:
- Determine your residency and age: Check if you’re considered a resident or non-resident and whether age-based exemptions apply.
- Choose your license type: Decide between sport, conservation, or short-term licenses depending on your trip.
- Visit the provincial website: Use the portals listed above to access the license system for your fishing location.
- Complete the application: Submit your personal information and ID (if required), then choose license duration.
- Pay and download/print your license: Make the payment, then carry a printed or digital license with you while fishing.
3. Fishing License Types & Fees by Province (2025)
British Columbia (Freshwater & Tidal)
- Two systems: freshwater vs tidal.
- BC Salmon Conservation Stamp (~$6.20) required for keeping salmon.
- Licence types: Annual, 8-day, 1-day.
- Exemptions: Youth under 16 fish free (licence required to keep catch). Seniors & disabled anglers get discounts.
- BC Freshwater Licences • Tidal Water Licences (DFO)
Ontario
- Outdoors Card (valid 3 years) required before buying a licence.
- Licence types: Sport vs Conservation.
- Family option: Children under 18 can fish under an adult licence.
- Exemptions: Youth under 18 and seniors 65+ (licence-free, conservation limits apply).
- Hunt & Fish Ontario
Alberta
- Purchase via AlbertaRELM.
- Licence types: Annual, 7-day, 1-day.
- Special permits: Mobility permits for disabled anglers.
- Exemptions: Youth under 16 & seniors 65+.
Quebec
- Licence types: Seasonal, short-term, regional.
- Zone-specific conservation rules.
- Seniors 65+ may qualify for reduced fees.
- Quebec Fishing Licences
Manitoba
- Licence types: Regular vs Conservation.
- Non-residents: Must buy Regular to keep full limits.
- Fees: Residents $27, Non-residents $55 (annual).
- Manitoba eLicensing
Saskatchewan
- Licence types: Annual, 3-day, 1-day.
- Angling rules vary by management zone.
- Saskatchewan Fishing Licences
Nova Scotia
- General licence plus special salmon licence required.
- Accessibility: Free permits for disabled anglers, accessible piers.
- Free Fishing Weekends available.
- Sport Fishing Nova Scotia
Newfoundland & Labrador
- Atlantic Salmon Licence mandatory for salmon.
- Family licence options available.
- NL Inland Fishery Licences
New Brunswick
- Freshwater licence plus Atlantic salmon licence required.
- Youth under 16 exempt (must follow limits).
- NB Angling Licences
Prince Edward Island
- Licence types: Annual and short-term.
- Exemptions: Youth under 16 and seniors 60+.
- Family licences offered.
- PEI Angling Licences
Yukon
- Licence types: Annual, short-term, conservation.
- Exemptions: Youth under 16 and Yukon First Nations.
- Yukon Fishing Licences
Northwest Territories
- Licence types: Resident, non-resident, Canadian non-resident.
- Youth under 16 exempt.
- NWT Fishing Licences
Nunavut
- Subsistence Fishing: Residents and Inuit have broader rights.
- Visitors must buy a sport licence.
- Nunavut Fishing Licences (PDF)
2025 Fishing Licence Fee Comparison (Residents vs Non-Residents)
| Province/Territory | Licence Type (Annual) | Resident Fee | Non-Resident Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| British Columbia | Freshwater Annual (16–64 yrs) | $24.12 | $116.02 (+$6.20 salmon stamp) |
| Ontario | Sport Annual + Outdoors Card | $26.57 + $9.68 | $54.38 + $9.68 |
| Alberta | Sportfishing Annual | $28.00 | $55.00 |
| Quebec | General Annual | $22.68 | $52.50 |
| Manitoba | Regular Annual | $27.00 | $55.00 |
| Saskatchewan | Annual Angling | $37.00 | $100.00 |
| Nova Scotia | General Annual | $27.60 | $34.80 (+ salmon licence) |
| Newfoundland & Labrador | Inland Annual | $20.00 | $40.00 (+ salmon licence) |
| New Brunswick | General Annual | $27.75 | $36.75 (+ salmon licence) |
| Prince Edward Island | Annual | $10.00 | $20.00 |
| Yukon | General Annual | $15.00 | $35.00 |
| Northwest Territories | Resident Annual | $10.00 | $40.00 |
| Nunavut | Sport Annual | $13.00 | $25.00 |
Fees may vary yearly—check each province’s portal for latest rates.
🎣 Quick Fee Highlights (2025)
- 🏆 Cheapest Resident Licence: Northwest Territories – $10.00
- 🌍 Cheapest Non-Resident Licence: Nunavut – $25.00
- 💰 Most Expensive Licence: British Columbia Non-Resident Freshwater – $116.02 (+ $6.20 salmon stamp)
- 🐟 Extra Salmon Licences Required: Nova Scotia, Newfoundland & Labrador, New Brunswick
4. Required Documents to Apply
To buy a license online or in person, you may need:
- Government-issued photo ID (passport, driver’s license)
- Proof of residency (utility bill, tax return)
- Outdoors Card (Ontario)
- Date of birth, contact details, and physical characteristics
5. Indigenous Fishing Rights in Canada
What Are FSC Rights?
Indigenous peoples may fish without a license for Food, Social, and Ceremonial (FSC) purposes within their territories.
Governing Regulations:
- Section 35 of the Constitution Act protects Aboriginal rights.
- Aboriginal Fisheries Strategy (AFS) regulates FSC fisheries.
- Communal Fishing Licenses are issued to First Nations groups by DFO.
Fishing under these rights must respect conservation rules and may not include commercial use unless authorized.
6. Accessibility & Special Permits
Disabled Anglers
Several provinces offer reduced or free licenses and better access:
- Alberta: Mobility permits for off-road access
- Nova Scotia: Free weapon discharge permits + accessible piers
- British Columbia: Discounted license ($1.07)
- Newfoundland: Programs promoting inclusion
Veterans & Armed Forces
- Ontario offers free fishing for:
- Veterans
- Active Canadian Armed Forces members
- Honorably discharged personnel with valid ID
7. Regulations You Must Follow
Catch & Possession Limits
You may only keep:
- A specific number of fish per day (catch limit)
- A total amount in your possession at any time (possession limit)
Limits vary by species, zone, and license type.
Fishing Seasons & Zones
- Closed seasons exist to protect spawning fish
- Fisheries Management Zones divide provinces into regulated regions
- Some waters require additional stamps or permits (e.g., salmon, fly fishing)
Penalties for Violations
- Fines up to several thousand dollars
- Confiscation of fishing gear
- License suspension
8. Frequently Asked Questions about How to Obtain a Fishing License in Canada
Do I need a separate license for each province?
Yes. Licenses are province-specific and not transferable.
Can kids fish without a license?
Generally yes, but they must follow adult catch limits or fish under a licensed adult.
What if I lose my license?
You can replace it online via the issuing province’s licensing portal. A small fee may apply.
What’s the Outdoors Card?
In Ontario, it’s a plastic ID card required before buying a license. Valid for 3 years.
Can I fish without a license during special events?
Yes. Many provinces offer free fishing weekends (e.g., Canada Day, Family Day). No license needed, but regulations still apply.
9. Final Checklist Before You Go Fishing
Fishing License Checklist
“Fishing is not just a sport. It’s a connection to nature and a legacy worth protecting.”
Looking for province-specific regulation guides?
- Ontario Fishing Regulations
- BC Freshwater Guidelines
- Nova Scotia Angler’s Handbook
- Quebec Fishing Rules
- Manitoba Fishing Seasons
By understanding the rules and obtaining the right fishing license, you’ll help protect Canada’s natural resources while enjoying a rewarding outdoor experience.