How Much is a Fishing License for Youth Programs in Manitoba?

Thinking about casting a line in one of Manitoba’s 100,000 lakes? It’s an awesome way to get outdoors and experience some of the best fishing around. But before you and your family head out, you need to know the rules, especially when it comes to licenses for younger anglers. This guide breaks down everything you need to know for the 2025 season, making sure your trip is fun, legal, and hassle-free.

Do Kids Need a Fishing License in Manitoba?

Let’s get straight to the most common question. For young anglers who are residents of Manitoba, the rule is simple and designed to get more people into the sport.

Resident youth under the age of 16 do not need to purchase a fishing license. That’s right—it’s completely free for resident kids and teens to fish! Even better, they are entitled to their own full, legal limit of fish, just like a licensed adult. To be considered a resident, you must have lived in the province for the last six months.

What About for Non-Resident Youth?

If you’re visiting Manitoba, the rules are a bit different:

• Non-resident anglers under 16 can fish without their own license only if they are with a licensed adult.
• However, any fish they catch will count towards the adult’s limit.
• If a non-resident youth wants their own separate fishing limit, they will need to purchase a non-resident angling license. For more details on the different types of licenses available, you can check out our complete Manitoba Fishing License 2025 guide.

Key Regulations for Young Anglers

Just because a license isn’t required doesn’t mean there are no rules. Teaching young anglers to respect regulations is a huge part of making them responsible and ethical fishers for life.

Even without a license, all youth must follow the regulations set out in the official Manitoba Anglers’ Guide. This includes:

• Catch and Possession Limits: Respect the daily catch and total possession limits for every species.
• Size Restrictions: Some lakes and species have minimum or maximum size limits, so be sure to measure your catch accurately.
• Barbless Hooks: In certain waters, especially designated catch-and-release areas, barbless hooks are mandatory to protect fish.
• Seasons and Bait Rules: Always be aware of when a season for a particular species opens or closes, and what types of bait are permitted.

The Manitoba Anglers’ Guide, which is updated every year, is your go-to source for all these details. It’s a good idea to have a digital or paper copy with you on your trip.

Awesome Youth Fishing Programs in Manitoba

Manitoba does more than just offer free fishing; it has programs specifically designed to get kids hooked on the sport.

L’il Angler Program

Run by Travel Manitoba, the L’il Angler program is perfect for first-timers. It’s a non-competitive way to celebrate a child’s very first catch. Open to kids 12 and under, all you have to do is submit a photo of them with their fish—any size, any species—and they’ll get a cool commemorative certificate and crest to mark the occasion.

Youth Recreational Fishing League

For kids aged 9 to 15 who want a more structured experience, the Manitoba Wildlife Federation (MWF) runs a fantastic Youth Recreational Fishing League. It operates like a sports league, with teams and coaches who fish together in events throughout the season, learning new skills and conservation principles in a fun, friendly environment.

Your Quick Checklist for Getting Started

Ready to hit the water? Here’s a simple checklist for parents and guardians:

1. Read the Guide: Before you go, review the latest Manitoba Anglers’ Guide for the most current rules.
2. Gear Up: Make sure you have the right rods, reels, and tackle for the fish you’re targeting.
3. Know the Rules: Double-check the license exemptions and regulations for your specific situation. If you do need to purchase one quickly, our guide on getting last-minute fishing licenses online can help.
4. Be a Mentor: Use this time to teach the importance of ethical fishing, like proper catch-and-release techniques and leaving no trace behind.

By making it easy and free for resident youth to fish, Manitoba is building the next generation of anglers and conservationists. So grab your gear, get out there, and make some memories