How Much for a Temporary Fishing License in Manitoba?
Manitoba’s vast network of over 100,000 lakes and rivers—including legendary fisheries like Lake Winnipeg and the Red River—draws anglers worldwide. Whether you’re pursuing trophy walleye or casting for catfish in Lockport’s swift currents, a temporary fishing license is your gateway to these waters. This guide delivers exact 2025 pricing, purchasing methods, and critical regulations to ensure compliance and maximize your angling experience. By addressing costs upfront and providing actionable steps, we empower you to focus on what matters: landing Manitoba’s famed catches.
Types of Temporary Fishing Licenses
Manitoba offers two license categories for short-term anglers: Conservation (reduced catch limits) and Regular (higher retention allowances). Both are available as 1-day or 3-day licenses, catering to spontaneous trips or weekend adventures.
Key Differences Between Conservation and Regular Licenses
- Conservation License: Ideal for catch-and-release enthusiasts. Retain up to 4 walleye/day versus 6 with a Regular license.
- Regular License: Best for anglers keeping fish for meals or tournaments.
Who Needs a License?
- All anglers aged 16–64, including non-residents.
- Exemptions apply for Manitoba seniors (65+) and Indigenous peoples exercising treaty rights.
2025 Temporary Fishing License Costs
Fees vary by residency status and license type. Prices include a $2.50 conservation surcharge, which funds Manitoba’s walleye stocking programs.
| Residency | 1-Day Conservation | 1-Day Regular | 3-Day Conservation | 3-Day Regular |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manitoba Residents | $8.00 CAD | $12.00 CAD | $12.00 CAD | $18.00 CAD |
| Canadian Non-Residents | $12.00 CAD | $18.00 CAD | $18.00 CAD | $28.00 CAD |
| International Visitors | $19.00 CAD | $28.00 CAD | $28.00 CAD | $42.00 CAD |
Additional Fees
- Online purchases: $4.50 service fee via the Manitoba eLicensing Portal.
- Phone orders: $12.50 express shipping for printed licenses.
Pro Tip: Compare Manitoba’s rates to nearby provinces like Ontario or Minnesota for multi-destination trips.
How to Purchase a Temporary License
Online via Manitoba eLicensing Portal
- Visit the Manitoba eLicensing Portal.
- Select “Temporary License” and choose dates.
- Pay with Visa, Mastercard, or Interac.
- Print or save a digital copy (ensure 40%+ device battery for on-water checks).
Processing Time: Immediate.
In-Person at Authorized Vendors
Over 200 vendors province-wide, including:
- Canadian Tire: 25+ locations offering gear bundles (e.g., rod rentals + bait).
- The Fishing Hole (Winnipeg): Expert advice on local hotspots like Lockport.
Telephone Purchase
- Call 1-877-880-1203 (7 AM–10 PM CST).
- Provide residency proof (e.g., Manitoba Health Card for residents).
- Pay $12.50 for expedited mail delivery (3–5 business days).
Note: Temporary licenses are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Fishing Regulations & Enforcement
Manitoba’s fishing rules prioritize sustainable angling and species conservation, with regulations enforced year-round by conservation officers. Key policies include:
- Catch Limits:
- Walleye: 4 fish/day (Conservation License) or 6 fish/day (Regular License), none exceeding 55 cm.
- Northern Pike: 3 fish/day, maximum 1 over 75 cm.
- Lake Trout: 1 fish/day in most zones, except protected waters like Lake Winnipeg’s south basin.
- Seasonal Closures:
- Spring Spawning: Walleye fishing closes April 1–May 20 in the Red River to protect spawning stocks.
- Winter Ice Fishing: Lake Winnipeg’s ice roads (January–March) allow access but prohibit overnight shelters.
- Gear Restrictions:
- Barbless hooks mandatory for Rainbow Trout in the Whiteshell region.
- No live baitfish in Atikaki Provincial Park to prevent invasive species.
Enforcement & Penalties
Conservation officers conduct random checks at popular spots like Lockport and Grand Rapids. Violations (e.g., exceeding catch limits) incur fines up to $298 CAD and license suspension. Digital licenses must display a QR code for verification; screenshot copies are invalid if device batteries die.
Top Fishing Spots & Pro Tips
Manitoba’s diverse waters cater to all skill levels. Here are 2025’s top destinations:
- Lake Winnipeg (South Basin)
- Target Species: Trophy walleye (8–12 lbs), sauger.
- Best Time: June–September for mid-lake reefs. Use jigging spoons in 20–30 ft depths.
- Local Insight: Charter services like Narrows Lodge offer GPS-marked honey holes.
- Red River (Lockport)
- Target Species: Channel catfish (30+ lbs), sturgeon.
- Best Time: July–October. Night fishing with cut bait yields giants.
- Access: Dock rentals at Selkirk Park; avoid weekends for crowds.
- Whiteshell Provincial Park
- Target Species: Smallmouth bass, lake trout.
- Fly Fishing: Dry flies on Caddy Lake’s rocky shores at dawn.
- Regulations: Catch-and-release only for bass until July 15.
For shore anglers, explore 10 Family-Friendly Shore Spots in Manitoba, including Bird’s Hill Park’s stocked ponds.
Free Fishing Opportunities & Conservation Programs
- Free Fishing Weekends:
- 2025 Dates: February 15–16 (ice fishing) and June 7–8 (open water).
- Rules: No license required, but all regulations apply. Ideal for introducing kids to angling.
- Learn to Fish Manitoba:
- Free clinics at Assiniboine Park (Winnipeg) teach knot-tying, casting, and filleting. Gear provided.
- Registration opens April 1 via the Manitoba Wildlife Federation.
- Fish Stocking Initiatives:
Over 2 million walleye fry released annually into Lake Manitoba and Waterhen River. Volunteer at hatcheries through MFFA (Manitoba Fly Fishing Association).
Conclusion
A temporary fishing license unlocks Manitoba’s world-class fisheries, from Lake Winnipeg’s walleye hauls to the Red River’s catfish battles. With 2025 fees ranging from $8–$42 CAD, purchasing online takes minutes, while adherence to regulations ensures sustainable fishing for future generations. Pair your license with local insights—like Lockport’s night fishing or Whiteshell’s fly zones—to maximize success. For ongoing updates, bookmark the Manitoba Anglers’ Guide and explore our guide to Manitoba’s Fishing Seasons.
