Northwest Territories Fishing Licence (2026)
Complete guide to Northwest Territories fishing licence costs in 2026. Learn about Great Slave Lake fishing, fly-in lodges, and eServices online purchasing.
Quick Answer
A Northwest Territories fishing licence costs $11.99 for residents. Children under 16 do not require a fishing licence in the NWT. Purchase online at NWT eServices.
Overview
The Northwest Territories offers remote wilderness fishing in some of the least-pressured waters in North America. Great Slave Lake produces world-record lake trout, and the territory's numerous fly-in lodges provide trophy fishing for pike, grayling, and Arctic char in pristine environments accessible only by floatplane.
Licence Prices
Current prices for Northwest Territories fishing licences (April 1 to March 31).
| Licence Type | NWT Resident | Canadian Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|---|
| Season | $11.99 CAD | $23.98 CAD | $47.97 CAD |
| 3-Day | $17.99 CAD | $17.99 CAD | $35.98 CAD |
| 1-Day | $11.99 CAD | $11.99 CAD | $11.99 CAD |
Prices do not include 5% GST. NWT residents can also purchase 3-day and 1-day licences at Canadian resident rates (no NWT-specific short-term classes).
Age Exemptions
Youth (Under 16)
Children under 16 do not require a fishing licence in the NWT.
Seniors (65+)
NWT residents 65 and older are exempt from fishing licence requirements.
How to Get Your Northwest Territories Fishing Licence
Visit eServices
Go to gov.nt.ca/eservices to purchase your licence online.
Choose Duration
Select season, 3-day, or 1-day based on your trip.
Pay and Print
Complete online payment and print your licence.
Book Lodge or Guide
Most NWT fishing is accessed via fly-in lodges or guided tours. Book well in advance.
Great Slave Lake: World-Class Lake Trout
Great Slave Lake is one of the deepest lakes in North America and produces world-record lake trout. The commercial fishing town of Hay River and the fly-in lodges on the East Arm offer exceptional trophy fishing opportunities.
Fly-In Fishing Lodges
The NWT is home to some of Canada's most exclusive fly-in fishing lodges. These remote wilderness camps offer guided fishing for lake trout, northern pike, Arctic grayling, and inconnu in waters that see very few anglers. Many lodges operate on a catch-and-release basis to preserve the pristine fisheries.
2026 Regulation Updates
- 2025/2026 NWT Fishing Guide effective April 1.
- Great Slave Lake catch-and-release zones updated.
- eServices online purchasing available for all licence types.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an NWT fishing licence cost?
An NWT resident season licence costs $11.99 plus GST. NWT residents can also buy 3-day ($17.99) and 1-day ($11.99) licences at Canadian resident rates. Canadian residents from other provinces pay $23.98 for a season licence, and non-residents pay $47.97.
Can I buy an NWT fishing licence online?
Yes. Visit gov.nt.ca/eservices to purchase online. Licences are also available at authorized vendors in Yellowknife and other communities.
What fish can I catch in the NWT?
The NWT is famous for trophy lake trout (especially in Great Slave Lake), northern pike, Arctic grayling, Arctic char, and inconnu (sheepfish).
Do I need a guide to fish in the NWT?
Not required by law, but highly recommended. Most prime fishing waters in the NWT are remote and accessible only by floatplane. Fly-in lodges provide guides, boats, and equipment.
Do seniors fish for free in the NWT?
Yes. NWT residents aged 65 and older do not need a fishing licence.