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Manitoba is an angler’s paradise, with more than 100,000 lakes and rivers teeming with trophy fish. Whether you’re a local looking for a quick day trip or a visitor wanting to experience our legendary waters, the one-day fishing license is your golden ticket. It’s the simplest and most affordable way to get your line in the water legally.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know for 2025. We’ll break down the real cost, show you exactly how to buy your license in minutes, and cover the key rules to make sure your fishing adventure is a success.
What’s the Real Cost of a One-Day License?
While the base fee is low, the total cost for a one-day license includes a standard administrative fee and tax. The $4.50 administrative fee applies to all online license purchases and helps maintain the e-licensing system.
Here’s a clear breakdown of what you’ll pay in 2025:
| Angler Type | Base Fee | GST (5%) | Admin Fee | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manitoba Resident | $8.00 | $0.40 | $4.50 | $12.90 |
| Canadian Resident | $15.45 | $0.77 | $4.50 | $20.72 |
| Non-Resident (from outside Canada) | $19.95 | $1.00 | $4.50 | $25.45 |
Understanding the difference between resident and non-resident status is key to purchasing the correct license. For a complete comparison, check out our guide on resident vs. non-resident fishing license costs.
How to Buy Your Manitoba Fishing License Online
Getting your license is fast and easy through Manitoba’s official e-licensing website. You can have your license in hand in just a few minutes. If you ever find yourself in a pinch, our guide on how to get a last-minute fishing license online can be a lifesaver.
Here’s how to do it:
- Go to the Manitoba e-licensing portal. You’ll need to create an account if it’s your first time.
- Select your license. Choose the “1-Day Angling Licence.”
- Pay securely. Use a credit card to complete the purchase.
- Save your license. You’ll get a digital copy immediately. You can print it or simply save it to your phone. We recommend taking a screenshot in case you lose cell service on the water.
Must-Know Rules for a Day Trip
To keep Manitoba’s fisheries healthy for years to come, every angler needs to follow the rules. Always check the official Manitoba Angler’s Guide for the most detailed and up-to-date information.
Here are the basics to keep in mind:
- Catch Limits: Each species has a daily limit on how many fish you can keep. These limits can change depending on the lake or river, so always check the specific regulations for the body of water you’re fishing.
- Seasons: Fish species are protected during their spawning periods. Make sure the season is open for the species you’re targeting before you head out.
- Gear Restrictions: To protect fish populations, some areas have rules about the gear you can use. This often includes requirements for barbless hooks (especially in trout waters) and restrictions on live bait to prevent the spread of invasive species.
Who Can Fish for Free in Manitoba?
Not everyone needs to buy a license to fish in Manitoba. Here are the main exemptions:
- Youth Anglers: Kids under 16 (both residents and non-residents) can fish without a license. They must follow all regulations, and any fish they keep count toward the limit of the licensed adult they are with.
- Seniors: Manitoba residents aged 65 or older can get a free Senior Conservation Licence.
- Indigenous Peoples: Status Indigenous individuals can fish without a provincial license as part of their treaty rights.
- Military and Veterans: Active military members and veterans who are Manitoba residents can fish without a license.
Manitoba also hosts a Family Fishing Weekend every June, where anyone can fish for free without a license for the entire weekend.
Where Your License Fee Goes
Ever wonder what happens to the money from your license fee? It directly supports the Fish and Wildlife Enhancement Fund (FWEF). This fund is essential for keeping Manitoba’s fisheries thriving. Your contribution helps pay for:
- Fish Stocking: Releasing millions of walleye, trout, and other species into local waters.
- Habitat Protection: Restoring and protecting the natural environments where fish live and spawn.
- Research and Monitoring: Studying fish populations to make smart conservation decisions.
- Enforcement: Supporting Conservation Officers who protect our waters from poaching.
By buying a license, you become a partner in conservation. Now get out there, enjoy your day on the water, and fish with pride
