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Planning a fishing trip to Manitoba’s incredible lakes and rivers for the 2025 season? Before you can cast a line for giant walleye or feisty pike, you’ll need to get your Manitoba fishing license. Don’t worry, the process is straightforward. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the 2025 license costs, where to buy one, and the key rules to follow.
How Much Does a Manitoba Fishing License Cost in 2025?
Manitoba offers several license options for both residents and visitors. The one you choose depends on how long you plan to fish and your conservation preference. All fees are in Canadian dollars (CAD) and are valid from May 1, 2025, to April 30, 2026.
Resident License Fees
You’re considered a resident if you’ve lived in Manitoba for the last six months.
| License Type | Cost (CAD) | Catch Limit | Good for… |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Regular | $22.00 | Full | The standard choice for a full season of fishing. |
| Annual Conservation | $18.00 | Reduced | A budget-friendly option with smaller possession limits. |
| 1-Day Regular | $8.00 | Full | Perfect for a quick, single-day fishing trip. |
Great news for seniors! Manitoba residents aged 65 and over can get a free annual conservation license. You still need to obtain it through the licensing system and carry proof of age while fishing.
Non-Resident License Fees
If you’re visiting from another province or country, you’ll need one of these licenses.
| License Type | Cost (CAD) | Catch Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Regular | $55.00 | Full |
| Annual Conservation | $45.00 | Reduced |
| 7-Day Regular | $40.00 | Full |
| 1-Day Regular | $19.00 | Full |
Pro Tip: If you’re planning a week-long trip, the 7-day license is a fantastic deal, saving you a significant amount compared to buying a new license each day.
How to Buy Your Manitoba Fishing License
Getting your license is quick and easy. Manitoba offers three simple ways to make your purchase.
1. Online
The fastest method is through the official Manitoba eLicensing website. You can set up an account, pay with a credit card, and instantly download a digital copy to your phone or print it out.
2. Authorized Retailers
You can buy a license in person at many stores across the province. Major retailers like Canadian Tire and Cabela’s sell them, as do many local tackle shops and lodges. You can even check out our guide on getting your fishing license at Walmart for more details on that option. Just remember to bring a valid ID.
3. Provincial Offices
Licenses are also available at Manitoba Sustainable Development offices in Winnipeg, Brandon, and other towns.
No matter where you buy it, you must carry your license with you while fishing. Conservation officers can ask to see it, and not having it can result in hefty fines.
Key Fishing Rules You Need to Know
Following the rules helps keep Manitoba’s fisheries healthy for everyone. Regulations can vary by location, so it’s always smart to check the official 2025 Manitoba Fishing Rules before you head out.
Catch Limits
- Walleye: The general daily limit is four, and only one can be over 55 cm.
- Northern Pike: You can typically keep six per day, but some trophy lakes have minimum size rules.
- Protected Species: Lake sturgeon and muskellunge are catch-and-release only.
Gear Restrictions
- Barbless Hooks: Mandatory in all rivers and streams to make releasing fish safer and easier.
- Lead-Free Tackle: You must use lead-free weights and jigs in all national and provincial parks.
Special License Info
Manitoba has a few special provisions for different groups of anglers.
- Youth Anglers: Kids under 16 don’t need a license as long as they fish with a licensed adult and their catch is part of the adult’s limit.
- Indigenous Anglers: Status Indians can fish for food without a license but must have one for recreational fishing.
Your License Fee at Work
That license fee does more than just let you fish—it’s a direct investment in conservation. Over 90% of Manitoba’s fisheries management budget comes from license sales. The money helps fund fish stocking programs, habitat restoration, and scientific research that keeps the fish populations thriving. By buying a license, you’re doing your part to protect the amazing fishing opportunities in Manitoba, from the famous Red River shore fishing spots to the remote northern lakes.
