Manitoba’s sprawling network of lakes and rivers, including world-renowned fisheries like Lake Winnipeg and the Red River, makes it a premier destination for anglers. Fishing piers, such as those at Gimli Harbour and Hnausa Beach, provide accessible shore-based opportunities to reel in trophy walleye, northern pike, and catfish. However, before casting your line, understanding Manitoba’s fishing license requirements is critical—not only to avoid fines but also to contribute to sustainable fisheries management. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of 2025 license costs, purchasing methods, and pier-specific regulations, ensuring your fishing experience remains both legal and rewarding.
Understanding Manitoba’s Fishing License System
Fishing licenses in Manitoba are administered by the provincial government through Manitoba Natural Resources and Northern Development. Revenue from license sales directly funds conservation initiatives, including fish stocking programs, habitat restoration, and invasive species control. Whether you’re fishing from a pier, boat, or shoreline, a valid license is mandatory for most anglers aged 16–74. Exceptions apply during Free Fishing Days and for youth under 16, though all other regulations (e.g., catch limits) remain enforceable.
Manitoba categorizes licenses based on residency, duration, and purpose. Below, we detail the four primary license types available for pier anglers in 2025, with verified pricing and eligibility criteria.
2025 Fishing License Costs for Manitoba Piers
1. Recreational Licenses
Recreational licenses cater to casual anglers and families fishing for personal enjoyment. These licenses are ideal for pier fishing, as they cover all public waterways, including pier-accessible areas.
- Eligibility: Open to residents, Canadian non-residents, and international visitors.
- Duration & Costs:
| License Type | Manitoba Residents | Canadian Residents | Non-Residents |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Day Recreational | $8.00 | $12.00 | $19.00 |
| Annual Recreational | $22.00 | $34.00 | $54.00 |
- Key Details:
- Annual licenses expire on March 31 of the following year.
- Pier anglers must adhere to daily catch limits for species like walleye (4 fish) and northern pike (6 fish). Smaller catches under 35 cm must be released.
- Purchase online via Manitoba eLicensing or at authorized retailers like Canadian Tire .
2. Conservation Licenses
For eco-conscious anglers, conservation licenses offer reduced catch limits at a lower cost, promoting sustainable practices.
- Eligibility: Available to residents and Canadian non-residents only.
- Costs:
- Annual Conservation License: $15.00 (residents), $25.00 (Canadian non-residents).
- Regulations:
- Halved catch limits (e.g., 2 walleye per day instead of 4).
- Mandatory use of barbless hooks in designated conservation zones, such as near spawning grounds in the Nelson River.
3. Temporary Licenses
Tourists and short-term visitors can opt for flexible temporary licenses, valid for 1–7 days.
- Costs:
- 3-Day License: $18.00 (non-residents).
- 7-Day License: $35.00 (non-residents), $20.00 (Canadian residents).
- Where to Buy: Available at provincial tourist centers, online, or via the Manitoba eLicensing Help Desk (1-877-880-1203).
4. Special Licenses
Manitoba encourages inclusivity by offering discounted or free licenses for seniors, youth, and disabled anglers:
- Seniors (75+): Free annual license for residents.
- Disabled Anglers: 50% discount on recreational licenses (requires medical documentation).
- Youth (Under 16): No license needed, but catch limits apply.
Note: Special licenses exclude commercial fishing privileges.
How to Purchase a Manitoba Fishing License
Online via Manitoba eLicensing (Recommended)
The fastest method involves three steps:
- Visit Manitoba eLicensing.
- Select your license type and residency status.
- Pay via credit card (Visa/MasterCard) and print or save a digital copy.
Pro Tip: Save your license on your smartphone—conservation officers accept digital copies during inspections.
In-Person Retailers
Licenses are sold at:
- Canadian Tire stores.
- Bait shops (e.g., Fishin’ Hole Winnipeg).
- Provincial parks offices.
Seasonal Note: Retailers often face high demand during peak fishing seasons (May–September). Call ahead to confirm stock availability.
By Phone
Contact the Manitoba Licensing Help Desk (1-877-880-1203) for assistance. Licenses are mailed within 5 business days or emailed instantly.
Pier-Specific Regulations & Best Practices
While Manitoba’s general fishing rules apply statewide, pier anglers must adhere to additional guidelines tailored to high-traffic shorelines. These rules balance conservation with accessibility, ensuring piers remain sustainable for future generations.
Key Pier Regulations
- Barbless Hooks Only: To minimize fish injuries, all hooks used on piers must be barbless (Barbed Hook Disabled) .
- Single Rod Limit: Anglers may use only one rod at a time, except during ice fishing seasons .
- No Live Fish Transport: Fish caught from piers must be immediately killed or released; transporting live fish is illegal .
- Species-Specific Slot Sizes:
- Walleye (Bigu): Keep only fish between 35–55 cm.
- Northern Pike: Minimum 75 cm for retention.
- Catfish (catfish): No size limits at Lockport piers, but daily catch capped at 3 fish .
Best Practices for Pier Success
- Tackle Recommendations: Use lead-head jigs (Lead hook) with soft plastics like curly-tail grubs (Curly tail soft worm) for walleye. For catfish, try cut bait on a Carolina rig .
- Timing: Early mornings (5–8 AM) and evenings (6–9 PM) yield peak activity, especially during May–June and September–October .
- Avoid Crowds: At Lockport, claim spots near the south end of the dam for higher catch rates and fewer snags .
Why Manitoba’s Piers Are Worth the License Cost
1. World-Class Fish Diversity
Manitoba’s piers provide access to trophy walleye, monster catfish, and aggressive northern pike. For example:
- Lockport Piers: Known as the “Catfish Country” anglers regularly land 10+ kg catfish here .
- Gimli Harbour: A hotspot for walleye exceeding 70 cm, with scenic views of Lake Winnipeg .
2. Infrastructure & Accessibility
Piers like Victoria Beach and Hecla feature amenities such as:
- Free parking and wheelchair-accessible platforms.
- Nearby bait shops (e.g., Fishin’ Hole Winnipeg) and restrooms.
- Real-time fish activity updates via the Manitoba Angler’s Hub .
3. Conservation Impact
License fees fund initiatives like:
- Fish Stocking: Annual releases of walleye fry into the Red River.
- Habitat Restoration: Projects to protect spawning grounds in the Nelson River Delta .
Transition to Conclusion
Manitoba’s fishing piers offer unmatched opportunities for both novice and expert anglers. By adhering to regulations and investing in a license, you contribute to preserving this ecological treasure.
Next Section Preview:
- Free Fishing Days & Community Events: How to enjoy pier fishing without a license on select dates.
- Penalties for Non-Compliance: Fines up to $5,000 for violations like using barbed hooks.
Free Fishing Days & Community Events
Manitoba designates two Free Fishing Weekends annually, allowing residents and non-residents to fish without a license. These events aim to promote angling as a family-friendly activity while emphasizing conservation awareness.
2025 Free Fishing Weekends
- Winter Free Fishing: February 14–16 (Family Day Weekend)
- Ice fishing hotspots like Lake Winnipeg and Delta Marsh host guided workshops.
- Summer Free Fishing: July 4–6 (Canada Day Weekend)
- Pier-focused events at Lockport and Hnausa Beach include kids’ fishing derbies and gear rentals.
Important Notes:
- All standard regulations (catch limits, slot sizes) still apply.
- Check the Manitoba Angler’s Hub for last-minute updates due to weather or ecological concerns.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Violating Manitoba’s fishing regulations can result in fines, equipment confiscation, or even fishing bans. Below are common pier-specific infractions and penalties:
| Violation | First Offense | Repeat Offense |
|---|---|---|
| Fishing without a valid license | $300–$500 | $1,000–$5,000 |
| Using barbed hooks on piers | $250 | $500 + rod seizure |
| Exceeding daily catch limits | $50 per fish | $100 per fish |
| Retaining undersized walleye | $75 per fish | $150 per fish |
Additional Consequences:
- Mandatory court appearances for non-residents.
- Permanent record of violations, affecting future license eligibility.
Conclusion: Why Compliance Matters
Purchasing a Manitoba fishing license is more than a legal requirement—it’s an investment in the province’s ecological future. License fees directly fund habitat restoration, fish stocking programs, and pier maintenance, ensuring world-class fishing remains accessible for generations.
Final Tips for Pier Anglers:
- Verify Regulations Annually: Rules evolve—review the Manitoba Fishing Regulations before each trip.
- Support Local Conservation: Join organizations like the Manitoba Wildlife Federation to advocate for sustainable fishing.
- Explore Beyond Piers: Complement pier fishing with boat trips to secluded spots like Grindstone Lake or Lake Manitoba Narrows.
Whether you’re casting for walleye at Lockport or introducing a child to fishing at Gimli Harbour, Manitoba’s piers offer unforgettable experiences. By adhering to licensing rules and ethical practices, you ensure these waters thrive long after your line is reeled in.