Manitoba’s pristine lakes and rivers offer some of Canada’s best opportunities for crabbing and harvesting freshwater crayfish. However, before you set out with your traps or nets, understanding the licensing requirements is critical. A standard Manitoba fishing license covers crabbing, and prices in 2025 range from $8 for a one-day resident permit to $55 for non-resident annual access. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of fees, regulations, and expert tips to ensure your adventure is both legal and rewarding.
Why Manitoba Requires Fishing Licenses for Crabbing
Fishing licenses are not just bureaucratic formalities—they’re vital tools for preserving Manitoba’s aquatic ecosystems. Here’s why compliance matters:
1. Conservation Funding
License fees directly support Manitoba’s fish stocking programs, habitat restoration projects, and invasive species control. For example, revenue from licenses helps combat zebra mussels in Lake Winnipeg, a critical habitat for crayfish.
2. Legal Compliance
Fishing without a valid license risks fines up to $298 under Manitoba’s Fisheries Act. Conservation officers regularly patrol popular spots like Lake Manitoba and the Red River to enforce regulations.
3. Sustainable Harvesting
Licenses enforce catch limits that prevent overharvesting. For instance, crayfish populations in the Winnipeg River system rely on strict daily quotas to remain healthy.
Key Consequences of Non-Compliance
- Fines: First-time offenders face penalties of $100–$298.
- Confiscation: Illegal catches, traps, or gear may be seized.
- Ecosystem Damage: Unregulated crabbing disrupts food chains, harming species like walleye and northern pike.
2025 Manitoba Fishing License Types and Fees
Manitoba does not offer a standalone “crabbing license.” Instead, crabbing and crayfish harvesting are included under the province’s Angling License. Below are the 2025 rates verified through Manitoba’s eLicensing portal:
| License Type | Manitoba Resident | Canadian Non-Resident | International Visitor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual License | $22 | $36 | $55 |
| 1-Day License | $8 | $19 | $19 |
| 3-Day License | $12 | $21.50 | $21.50 |
| Conservation License | $12 | $24 | $24 |
Notes:
- Annual Licenses are valid from May 1, 2025, to April 30, 2026.
- Conservation Licenses reduce catch limits (e.g., 4 walleye/sauger daily instead of 6).
- Free Licenses: Seniors (65+) and Indigenous residents fishing for food are exempt.
Special Discounts
- Youth: Anglers under 16 fish for free if accompanied by a licensed adult.
- Military/Veterans: Active personnel and veterans qualify for 50% discounts.
- Disabled Anglers: Reduced fees apply with medical documentation.
For comparison, non-resident fees in neighboring provinces like Alberta are higher, making Manitoba a budget-friendly destination.
How to Buy Your Manitoba Crabbing License
Follow these steps to secure your license legally and efficiently:
Step 1: Confirm Residency Status
- Resident: Lived in Manitoba for ≥6 months. Proof includes a driver’s license or utility bill.
- Non-Resident: All other Canadian residents.
- International Visitor: Tourists or non-Canadians.
Step 2: Choose a Purchase Method
- Online (Fastest Option)
- Visit Manitoba’s eLicensing Portal.
- Create an account, select license type, and pay with Visa/Mastercard.
- Fee: $4.50 administrative charge applies.
- Tip: Save a digital copy on your phone or print immediately.
- In-Person
- Buy from authorized retailers like Canadian Tire, Cabela’s, or bait shops such as Selkirk Bait & Tackle.
- By Phone
- Call Manitoba’s licensing helpline at 1-877-880-1203 (7 AM–10 PM CST).
Step 3: Prepare Required Documents
- ID: Passport, driver’s license, or provincial photo ID.
- Residency Proof: Required only for discounted resident licenses.
Step 4: Review Crabbing Regulations
- Catch Limits: 50 crayfish/day per angler.
- Trap Rules: Traps must have biodegradable escape panels.
- Barbless Hooks: Mandatory for all gear.
Pro Tip: Bookmark Manitoba’s 2025 Angler’s Guide for real-time updates.
Key Locations and Planning Tips
Manitoba’s top crabbing destinations include:
- Lake Winnipeg: Known for large crayfish populations.
- Whiteshell Provincial Park: Ideal for family-friendly harvesting.
- Red River: Accessible shore fishing near Winnipeg.
For more spots, explore our guide to 10 Best Shore Fishing Spots in Manitoba.
PART 2
Manitoba Crabbing Regulations: What You Need to Know in 2025
Crabbing in Manitoba falls under the province’s general fishing regulations but includes specific rules to protect crayfish populations. Ignoring these rules can result in fines, even if you have a valid license. Below are the 2025 crabbing regulations verified by Manitoba’s Fisheries Branch:
1. Catch Limits and Species Protection
- Daily Crayfish Limit: 50 per angler.
- Possession Limit: 100 crayfish (double the daily limit).
- Protected Species: Northern crayfish (Faxonius virilis) are the only legal species. Rusty crayfish (invasive) must be reported and destroyed.
2. Gear Restrictions
| Gear Type | Legal Specifications | Prohibited Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Traps | Max 6 traps per angler; biodegradable panels | Provincial parks |
| Dip Nets | Max 1.5m diameter; no barbed edges | Within 25m of fishways |
| By Hand | Gloves required; no tools allowed | Spawning zones (May–June) |
Key Rules:
- Traps must be labeled with your name and license number.
- No crayfish harvesting is permitted in Whiteshell Provincial Park or within 100m of dams.
3. Seasonal Dates
- Open Season: May 15–September 30, 2025.
- Closures: Check the 2025 Angler’s Guide for temporary closures due to conservation concerns.
Conservation Tips for Ethical Crabbing
Responsible harvesting ensures crayfish populations thrive for future generations. Follow these best practices:
1. Use Sustainable Traps
- Biodegradable Panels: Prevent “ghost fishing” if traps are lost. Purchase compliant traps from retailers like Cabela’s Winnipeg.
- Avoid Invasive Bait: Using rusty crayfish as bait is illegal. Stick to worms or cut bait.
2. Handle Crayfish Properly
- Minimize Stress: Keep crayfish in cool, aerated buckets.
- Release Females with Eggs: Gently place them belly-side up to check for eggs.
3. Combat Invasive Species
- Report Sightings: Contact the Manitoba Invasive Species Hotline (1-800-563-7711) if you spot rusty crayfish.
- Clean Gear: Rinse traps and waders to prevent spreading invasives.
4. Respect Cultural Practices
Indigenous harvesters fishing for food under Section 35 rights do not need a license but must follow conservation limits.
Penalties for Violating Crabbing Laws
Manitoba enforces strict penalties to deter illegal harvesting:
| Violation | Fine Range | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| Fishing without a license | $100–$298 | Gear confiscation |
| Exceeding catch limits | $250–$500 | License suspension (1–3 years) |
| Using illegal traps | $300–$1,000 | Court appearance required |
| Harvesting in closed zones | $500–$2,000 | Mandatory conservation course |
Real Example: In July 2024, a Winnipeg resident was fined $1,200 for using unlabeled traps in Lake Manitoba.
Conclusion: Enjoy Manitoba’s Waters Responsibly
A Manitoba fishing license grants more than legal access—it’s a commitment to preserving the province’s aquatic ecosystems. With crayfish populations facing pressure from invasive species and habitat loss, every angler plays a role in their survival.
Before You Go:
- Double-check the 2025 Angler’s Guide for updates.
- Explore Manitoba’s Top 10 Shore Fishing Spots for prime crabbing locations.
- Compare fees with other provinces using our Alberta Fishing License Guide.
By following regulations and adopting ethical practices, you’ll ensure Manitoba remains a crabbing destination for years to come.