Manitoba Fishing Licence (2026)
Complete guide to Manitoba fishing licence costs in 2026. Learn about licence types, family fishing weekends, eLicensing, and current prices for residents and visitors.
Quick Answer
A Manitoba fishing licence costs $27.60 for residents. Children under 16 do not need a fishing licence in Manitoba. However, if a youth wishes to have their own separate catch limit, they must purchase a licence. Purchase online at Manitoba eLicensing.
Overview
Manitoba offers affordable fishing licences and exceptional angling opportunities, from giant channel catfish on the Red River to trophy walleye on Lake Winnipeg. The province features both summer and winter free family fishing weekends where no licence is required, making it especially welcoming for families and newcomers to the sport. CAF veterans and active military fish free.
Licence Prices
Current prices for Manitoba fishing licences (May 1 to April 30).
| Licence Type | Manitoba Resident | Canadian Resident | Non-Canadian Resident |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $27.60 CAD | $42.30 CAD | $62.25 CAD |
| 1-Day | $12.90 CAD | $17.10 CAD | $24.45 CAD |
Prices do not include GST or administration fees. Annual licence valid May 1 to April 30.
Age Exemptions
Youth (Under 16)
Children under 16 do not need a fishing licence in Manitoba. However, if a youth wishes to have their own separate catch limit, they must purchase a licence.
Seniors (65+)
Manitoba residents 65+ who have lived in the province for at least 6 months can fish free with Conservation catch limits. Must carry proof of age and residency.
How to Get Your Manitoba Fishing Licence
Visit eLicensing Portal
Go to manitobaelicensing.ca to create a profile and purchase your licence online.
Choose Duration
Select annual ($27.60 resident) or 1-day ($12.90 resident) licence based on your needs.
Complete Purchase
Pay online and print or save your licence digitally. You can also purchase by phone (1-877-880-1203), at Manitoba Conservation offices, or participating retail locations.
Know Your Waters
Check the Manitoba Anglers' Guide for regulations specific to your fishing area. Must carry licence (printed or digital) while fishing.
Summer & Winter Family Fishing Weekends
Manitoba hosts free family fishing weekends twice a year where residents and visitors can fish without a licence. The Summer Family Fishing Weekend typically falls in early June, and the Winter Family Fishing Weekend takes place during the Louis Riel Day long weekend in February. These events are designed to introduce families to fishing and winter outdoor recreation. Federal parks are excluded from the free fishing weekends.
Channel Catfish Destination
Manitoba's Red River is one of North America's top destinations for channel catfish, regularly producing fish over 20 pounds. The province also offers excellent walleye fishing in Lake Winnipeg and northern pike in hundreds of boreal lakes.
Veterans and Military Exemption
Manitoba resident active military members and veterans of the Canadian Armed Forces are exempt from purchasing a fishing licence. Must show proof of Manitoba residency and relevant military or veteran identification.
2026 Regulation Updates
- 2025/2026 Manitoba Anglers' Guide effective May 1, 2025.
- Summer Family Fishing Weekend: June 6-8, 2025.
- Winter Family Fishing Weekend: February 14-16, 2026.
- Updated slot limits for walleye in select lakes.
- Manitoba-resident CAF veterans and active military continue to fish free.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Manitoba fishing licence cost?
A Manitoba resident annual licence costs $27.60, plus GST and admin fees. Canadian residents from other provinces pay $42.30, and non-Canadian residents pay $62.25. A 1-day licence starts at $12.90 for Manitoba residents.
Do seniors need a licence in Manitoba?
Manitoba residents aged 65 or older who have resided in the province for at least 6 months can fish for free, subject to Conservation catch limits. Must carry proof of age and residency.
Are there free fishing weekends in Manitoba?
Yes. Manitoba offers free family fishing weekends twice a year — a Summer Weekend (typically early June) and a Winter Weekend (Louis Riel Day in February). No licence is required during these designated weekends, except in federal parks.
Can I buy a Manitoba fishing licence online?
Yes. Visit manitobaelicensing.ca to purchase online. Licences are also available by phone (1-877-880-1203), at Manitoba Conservation offices, authorized vendors, outdoor retailers, and some gas stations.
What is the best fishing in Manitoba?
Manitoba is famous for channel catfish on the Red River, walleye in Lake Winnipeg and Lake Manitoba, and northern pike in hundreds of boreal lakes.