FAQ
Questions we hear a lot.
Do kids need a fishing licence in Canada?＋
In most provinces, anglers under 16 (or 18 in some) can fish without a licence when accompanied by a licensed adult and sharing the adult's daily catch limit.
Is there one licence that covers all of Canada?＋
No. Each province and territory issues its own recreational licence. Tidal saltwater fishing is licensed federally by Fisheries and Oceans Canada.
Can I buy a Canadian fishing licence online?＋
Yes. Every province and territory now sells licences online through an official portal. We link directly to each one from the province pages.
Do I need a licence in a National Park?＋
Yes — Parks Canada issues its own National Park fishing permit, valid in most national parks across the country. It replaces the provincial licence while you're inside the park.
How long is a Canadian fishing licence valid?＋
It depends. Some are 1-day, 3-day, or 8-day options; annual licences run either the calendar year (Jan 1 – Dec 31) or the fiscal year (Apr 1 – Mar 31).
Do I need a separate licence for salmon or steelhead?＋
Usually yes. Provinces like BC, Québec, and the Atlantic provinces require an additional conservation stamp or salmon licence on top of your general angling licence.
Is this an official government service?＋
No. The Fishing Assistant is an independent guide. We link to official portals — your licence is issued by the government, not by us.