FRESHWATER
FISHING LICENCE
If you are 16 years of age or older you must have a valid basic freshwater fishing licence to sport fish in non-tidal waters in BC. You must also purchase the appropriate supplementary licences and stamps. If you are under 16 and a resident of BC, you may sport fish without any licence or stamp but must still abide by the regulations. You can purchase your non-tidal/freshwater fishing licence online through the government of B.C.’s website or in person from a participating vendor.
BUY FRESHWATER LICENCE
FRESHWATER REGULATIONS
Be sure to read and understand the Freshwater Fishing Regulations before you go fishing. You can download and print specic regions from the synopsis or obtain a hard copy from a licence vendor. To download the 2017-2019 Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis (Complete Edition) click below.
DOWNLOAD FRESHWATER REGULATIONS
TIDAL WATERS
FISHING LICENCE
All anglers must have a fishing licence to fish tidal waters in BC. Children under the age of 16 are free but must still obtain a licence.
A Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Licence:
- is required to fish for any species of finfish or shellfish.
- is not transferable.
- does not need to be signed by the licence holder.
- can be obtained in person; a parent may obtain a licence for a child under age 16; and a licence can be obtained for a spouse.
- must be produced on request by a fishery officer, conservation officer or fishery guardian, so ensure you have your licence with you while fishing or transporting your catch.
- When you purchase your licence online, you must print it and carry it while fishing so that you can immediately record your chinook, ling cod or halibut catch on the licence in ink.
- Annual licences are valid from date shown on the licence to the following March 31. Licences of a shorter duration expire at midnight on the final day of validity.
- It is illegal to hold more than one licence.
BUY TIDAL WATERS LICENCE
TIDAL WATERS REGULATIONS
For more information on regulations click below.