The Manitoba Government has changed the way that angling licences will work going forward, making the process more streamlined and modern.
Greg Nesbitt, the Minister for Natural Resources and Northern Development made the announcement today, saying in a news release that they've heard the complaints about the licencing process from Manitobans, and this is concrete action responding to the issues that have been brought up.
“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.”
Starting April 1st, 2023, the following changes are coming into place:
- there will be a single, annual angling licence for each residency type, that will replace the former “conservation” and “regular” licence categories;
- a new one-day angling licence will be available;
- seniors, active military members, and veterans living in Manitoba will no longer need an angling licence and will simply need to show acceptable identification to conservation officers upon request;
- 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.
More information about fishing in the province and Manitoba's Recreational Angling Strategy can be found on the province's website.
