News Releases

February 1, 2023

As part of ongoing efforts to reduce red tape, the Manitoba government is implementing modernized, streamlined angling regulations effective April 1, Natural Resources and Northern Development Minister Greg Nesbitt announced today during Red Tape Awareness Week.

“We’ve heard from Manitobans that they want angling licences to be modernized. Our government has listened and we are taking concrete action,” said Nesbitt. “As part of Manitoba’s Recreational Angling Strategy, modernizing regulations will further improve the vibrant recreational angling opportunities in the province while enhancing the protection of valuable fish stocks.”

Under the new regulations, a single, annual angling licence for each residency type will replace the former “conservation” and “regular” licence categories. In addition, a new one-day angling licence will also be available.

The minister noted Manitoba seniors, as well as active military members and veterans residing in Manitoba, will no longer need to obtain an angling licence and will simply need to show acceptable identification to conservation officers upon request.

“Our government wants to make things easier for the 22,000 Manitoba seniors who take part in recreational fishing,” said Nesbitt. “Instead of having to apply for a Manitoba resident senior angling licence on an annual basis, Manitoba seniors would need to show proof of age and residency when requested by conservation officers.”

Other regulation changes include:

• allowing open fishing year-round for certain abundant species coupled with enhanced sustainability measures;
• introducing increased protection for large spawning fish and for certain species to protect high-value fish;
• amending ice fishing shelter requirements; and
• creating consistent residency definitions for anglers, hunters and trappers.

For more information about angling in Manitoba, visit: http://manitobafisheries.com.

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