Going Fishing? Learn About Canada's Fishing Regulations

Fishing is a significant contributor to Canada's economy, with fishermen required to obtain a license in order to practice their trade. In recreational fishing, which is also a part of local tourism, certain regulations are in place, mainly to regulate and safeguard the marine ecosystems of that area.

Fishing regulations in Canada vary slightly by province or region and these are legislated by the Territorial and Provincial governments. If you wish to go on a fishing trip, you might want to check with the local government or with your outfitter what regulations you must comply with and which permits you should obtain.

A few examples of fishing regulations in Canada include:

Fishing license
A fishing license is required for people over the age of 18 but under 65 years old. This license may be purchased from stores, outfitters and fishing camps. The cost varies, depending on the license.

A regular fishing license doesn't limit how many fish you catch on a daily basis, although it places a restriction on the allowable size of certain fish species. A conservation license restricts the catch you can have per day but it costs less than the regular license. A conservation license also imposes size limits on a number of fish species.

Timing
In some areas in Canada, such as Alberta, sport fishing is allowed regardless of the season although certain restrictions are imposed for certain bodies of water and FMZs or Fish Management Zones. Again, check with your local agency or outfitter regarding this.

Fish species
There are numerous fish species found in the waters of Canada, but fishing regulations limit the type of species that can be caught. For example, out of 5 fish caught which are a combination of Arctic grayling and trout, only 1 of them may be a golden trout, 3 a lake trout, 2 an Artic grayling and none of the catch should be a bull trout. Certain regulations and limits also cover other fish species.

Fishing
It is illegal to use devices that can cause electrical currents or explosions in the water, or those that can kill or stun fish. Unless they have been caught legally and are located near the area where they were caught, you also cannot hold or own live bait and game fish.

Exporting your fish
Some areas, such as those in Ontario, will allow you to take your catch outside the region. However, certain Canadian fishing regulations cover the number of fish you can export and their allowable size. Fish must also be identifiable, which means you will have to leave some scales on if you are going to fillet your catch.