How to UseLicences

Purchasing the Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis

When fishing in B.C., you must follow:

1. PROVINCIAL REGULATIONS
AND LICENSING REQUIREMENTS
Peace
Find these general regulations on pages 5-10 7B

2. REGIONAL REGULATIONS
Find these regulations at the beginning of Skeena
each Regional chapter. 6
Omineca Fort
REGION 1: Vancouver Island 12 7A St. John

REGION 2: Lower Mainland 20 Smithers

REGION 3: Thompson-Nicola 27 Prince George

REGION 4: Kootenay 34
REGION 5: Cariboo 42
Cariboo
REGION 6: Skeena 49
5
REGION 7A: Omineca 58 Williams Lake
3
REGION 7B: Peace 63 Thompson-Nicola
2 4
REGION 8: Okanagan 67 Lower Kamloops
Kootenay
Vancouver 1 Mainland 8 Cranbrook
Island Okanagan
3. WATER-SPECIFIC REGULATIONS Nanaimo
Surrey Penticton Nelson

There may or may not be special regulations

which apply to a specific lake or stream.
Here’s how to find out:
Look in the Water-Specific Tables in the 4. IN-SEASON REGULATION CHANGES
region where the lake or stream is located.
Receive Notifications of Regulation
In-season regulation changes may have been
Changes
adopted after this synopsis was published.
A. If the lake or stream you plan to fish does To receive notifications about in-
not appear in the Water-Specific Tables, no These will be: season regulation changes as well
special regulations are in effect. Therefore, as other important notices about
• posted on the Ministry of Forests/
you must only follow: fishing in B.C., visit www.gov.bc.ca/
Freshwater fishing regulations in
FishingRegulations and subscribe to
• The Provincial Regulations AND B.C. website, www.gov.bc.ca/
the page(s) you are interested in. The
FishingRegulations.
• The Regional Regulations for the Region. RSS feed is no longer being used.
- will be listed under "Regional Synopsis
B. If the lake or stream you plan to fish does Information and In-Season Changes” Angling, Hunting, and Trapping
appear in the regional Water-Specific Tables, - click on the appropriate Region, any in- Public Engagement
you must follow: season changes will be listed in the table The public can review and provide
for that particular region. feedback on proposed changes
• The Provincial Regulations,
to angling, hunting, or trapping
• The Regional Regulations for the Region, regulations through the provincial
and/or YOU AND THE LAW Angling, Hunting and Trapping Public
Engagement Website, online at apps.
• The Water-Specific Regulations. The British Columbia Freshwater Fishing nrs.gov.bc.ca/ahte/.
Regulations on Tributaries: If the  symbol Regulations Synopsis is for general
is listed next to a lake or stream listed in the information purposes only. Where there is a
Water-Specific Regulations Tables, then those discrepancy between this Synopsis and the
regulations also apply to any tributary streams Regulations, the Regulations are the final
that flow into that lake or stream (see page 4). authority. Regulations are subject to change, Questions? Contact any of the
such as in-season regulation changes following, listed on the first page
described above, and it is the responsibility of each Regional chapter:
of an individual to be informed of the current • Provincial Fish and Wildlife Regional
regulations. Office
• Conservation Officer Service
• Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Looking for a definition? See page 80

2023-2025 BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis 1

 Regulation Changes for 2023-2025
REGION 1 - VANCOUVER ISLAND REGION 3 - THOMPSON REGION 5 - CARIBOO
• November 1 to April 30 bait ban for all • Lynn Lake - Removal of the ice fishing • Reduction of the regional lake trout
streams on Haida Gwaii (Management prohibition. quota from three to two.
Units 6-12 and 6-13). • Placid and Smith Lakes – • Big Lake – Prohibition on the retention
• Tsitika River – Closed to fishing (this Replacement of water specific of lake trout over 50 cm.
regulation was changed in 2022 and regulations (No Ice Fishing, trout quota • Bridge Lake – Reduction in the lake
has been continued). 2, bait ban, single barbless hook) with trout quota from three to one.
regional regulations (trout quota = 5,
• Heber River – Closed to fishing (this no gear restrictions). • Sulphourous Lake – Restriction of the
regulation was changed in 2021 and lake trout quota from one (no size
• Scuitto Lake – Increase trout quota restriction) to one (none over 50 cm).
has been continued). from 2 to 5.
• Tyee Lake – Reduction in kokanee
• Gold River – Downstream of the • Little Gun (Lajoie) Lake - Reduce quota quota from 10 to 5 (this regulation
Muchalat River closed to fishing Dec. 1 for bull trout (Dolly Varden) daily quota was changed in 2021 and has been
to Aug 15 (this regulation was changed from 1 (none under 60 cm) to zero continued).
in 2021 and has been continued). (catch and release only).
• Adams River - No Fishing between REGION 6 - SKEENA
REGION 2 - LOWER MAINLAND boundary signs posted in the vicinity
of the public salmon viewing platforms • Year round bait ban on the Skeena
• Region-wide prohibition on the (this regulation was changed in 2022 River, including all tributaries, and
retention of char (bull trout, Dolly and has been continued). Nass River, including all tributaries.
Varden, or lake trout) under 60 cm,
with the exception of Chilliwack, Pitt, • Upper Morice River – Year round
Chehalis, Lillooet, Harrison and Cultus REGION 4 - KOOTENAY angling closure from Morice Lake
Lakes where 1 bull trout over 60 cm to signs posted approximately 2 km
• Slocan River – Change the July downstream (the dunes).
can be retained. 15-Aug 31 No Fishing regulation to a
time-of-day closure: July 15-Aug 31
• Morris Lake – Implementation of from 12:00 pm to midnight. REGION 7A - OMINECA
single barbless hook and bait ban.
• NO CHANGES
• Fussee Lake – Re-open Fussee Lake
• Sumas River – Increased hatchery to angling.
steelhead quota from one to two. REGION 7B - PEACE
• Summit Lake (MU 4-23) - Remove • Peace River – Kokanee quota of 10
• Windsor, Dodd, Ireland, Nanton and water specific regulations (no ice
Horseshoe Lakes - Implement single (this regulation was changed in 2021
fishing, trout/char daily quota = 2, bait and has been continued).
barbless hook and reduce wild trout ban, single barbless hook) and revert
daily quota from four to two, none to regional regulations.
over 40 cm. REGION 8 - OKANAGAN
• Whatshan Lake/Reservoir – Prohibition • Martins and Chapman Lakes –
• Kartoum and Lois Lakes – Increase on the retention of bull trout under 60
the rainbow trout/hatchery steelhead Reduction in rainbow lake quota from
cm. five to two.
daily quota from two to six; no more
than two may be wild and no wild • Kootenay Lake - Increased daily quota • Okanagan Lake – Removal of barbless
trout over 40 cm. Wild char daily for bull trout and rainbow trout and hook regulation.
quota = 1, none under 60 cm (regional increased annual quota for rainbow • Similkameen River - Extend current
regulation). trout over 50 cm. trout release between Hwy 3 bridge
• Brem River – Year round bait ban for at Princeton and Hwy 3 31 km
the entire river and artificial fly only downstream of Princeton to the entire
upstream of the second set of falls, river, including tributaries.
approximately 2.5 km upstream of the • Wood Lake - Reduction in kokanee
confluence with Hillis Creek. quota from 5 to 3 (this regulation
was changed in 2022 and has been
continued).

2 2023-2025 BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis

Table of Contents

GENERAL INFORMATION INFORMATION & RESOURCES

How to Read the Regional Water-Specific Tables 4 Angling Journal 72
Licencing and Fees 5-6 Aquatic Invasive Fish 74
Conservation Surcharge Stamps 6 Aquatic Invasive Plants 74
Classified Waters Licences 7 Whirling Disease 74
Family Fishing Weekend 7 Invasive Mussel Defence Program 74
Clean, Drain & Dry your Watercraft 74
PROVINCIAL REGULATIONS How to Report Aquatic Invasive Species 75
Allowable Fishing Methods 8 Catching and Releasing Fish 75
It is Unlawful to 8 Harvesting Fish for Safe Consumption 75
Rules on Bait Usage 8 Safe and Respectful Boating 75
Quotas 8 Angling Ethics 76
Size Limits 9 Rotational Angling 76
Protected Species and No Fishing Areas 9 Angling Safely in Bear Country 76
Fluctuating Lake & Reservoir Levels 9 Fish Tagging in British Columbia 76
Fishing in Provincial Parks and Ecological Reserves 9 Freshwater Fisheries Management 77
Fishing in National Parks 9 Salmon Management in British Columbia 77
Keeping and Transporting Your Catch 10 Atlantic Salmon Alert 78
Angling Guides in British Columbia 10 Enforcement and Compliance 78
Contacts 79
REGIONAL REGULATIONS Definitions 80
Each of the following Regional sections contains
regional contact information, region-specific regulations,
Management Unit boundary maps and tables detailing
CENTRE GLOSS
water-specific regulations.
Tips for Planning a Fishing Trip
Regulations that have changed from the previous version
Freshwater Fish of B.C.
of the printed synopsis are highlighted in blue.

REGION 1: Vancouver Island 12

REGION 2: Lower Mainland 20
REGION 3: Thompson-Nicola 27 B.C. FISHING APPS
REGION 4: Kootenay 34 Report Invasives BC
REGION 5: Cariboo 42
REGION 6: Skeena 49
REGION 7A: Omineca 58
REGION 7B: Peace 63
REGION 8: Okanagan 67

For an online copy of this synopsis or to check We welcome your suggestions.

for in-season regulation changes go to: Please send comments to:
www.gov.bc.ca/FishingRegulations The Synopsis, Fish and Wildlife Branch
Email: fishandwildlife@gov.bc.ca

2023-2025 BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis 3

 How to Read the Regional Water-Specific Tables

The Regulations listed in the Water-Specific Tables are EXCEPTIONS or ADDITIONS to the Regional Regulations.
What follows is an explanation of the information in each column of the tables:

1 2 3

WATER BODY | MGMT UNIT EXCEPTIONS TO THE REGIONAL REGULATIONS

ALICE LAKE  2-7 No powered boats
Bull trout (char) release
ALOUETTE LAKE 2-8 No vessels in swimming areas, as buoyed and signed; speed restriction (8 km/h) at S. end of lake, S. of a line drawn from the BC Parks boat ramp
to signs on the E. side of the lake

1 Water-Specific Regulations year round or seasonally. During the period • No angling from boats: you may use
This column lists waters with restrictions not when bait is banned it is banned for all a boat or other floating device for
covered by the Regional Regulations. angling and for all species. transportation in these waters, but you
may not angle from that boat.
An asterisk symbol () means the regulation Single Hook: it is prohibited to angle with
• No angling from powered boats: you are
applies to tributary streams as well. a hook with more than one point on waters
not allowed to angle from a boat equipped
that are subject to a single hook regulation.
A fish symbol ( ) means the lake is stocked. with a motor on these waters.
Single hook regulations may be in place
Not all stocked lakes are listed in the Water- • No powered boats: boat motors of all
year round or seasonally. Where single hook
Specific Regulations Tables. For a complete types (internal combustion, steam and
regulations are in place on a water body it
list of stocked lakes in B.C. go to https:// electric) are prohibited on these waters.
applies to angling for all species. Often single
www.gofishbc.com/Where-to-Fish.aspx • Electric motor only : you may use only
hook regulations are combined with barbless
battery-powered electric motors - max
A (CW) symbol means that this is a Classified hook regulations and termed “single barbless
7.5 kW. All other types of motors (internal
Water; see page 7. hook”.
combustion, steam) are prohibited on
2 Management Unit (M.U.) Barbless Hook: it is prohibited to use a hook these waters. In addition, wind or human
This column lists one or more Management with a barb on waters subject to a barbless propelled craft may be used.
Unit’s only as a reference to help you locate hook regulation. Barbless hook regulations • Engine power regulations: boat motors
your target lake or stream and to distinguish may be in place year-round or seasonally. cannot exceed the engine power (given
waters in a region with the same name. Not Where barbless hook regulations are in place in kilowatts) listed in the “Exceptions”
all applicable M.U.’s may be listed. Consult on a water body, it applies to angling for all column.
the B.C. Recreational Atlas or Regional maps species. Often barbless hook regulations are • Speed regulations: boats equipped with
for Management Unit boundaries. combined with single hook regulations and motors cannot exceed the speed limit
termed “single barbless hook”. listed in the “Exceptions” column.
3 Exceptions to the Regional Regulations • No towing: do not tow a person on water
Catch and Release: You may fish for the Dates: regulations may apply for all or part skis, a surf board or other water toy.
named species, but you must release any of the year. When no date is listed, the • No vessels: boats and rafts of all types are
that you catch. You must return your fish to regulations apply all year. Start and end prohibited.
the water as quickly and carefully as possible dates are inclusive.
(see “Proper Fish Handling”, page 75). Please note: most boating regulations are
✪ Youth/Disabled Accompanied Waters the responsibility of Government of Canada,
Tributaries: when all regulations cited apply Marine Transportation. They are published
Authorized Angler: A person that is under
to both the named body of water and its here as a courtesy to anglers but, due to
16 years of age or a disabled resident.
tributaries, an asterisk () is placed in the first space limitations, may not be complete.
column. When only some regulations apply to Companion: A person who accompanies For more information:
the tributaries then a asterisk is placed after and attends an authorized angler. A
the relevant regulation cited in this column. person must not angle in a Youth/Disabled Marine Transportation
Accompanied Water unless the person is Office of Boating Safety
No fishing for: you may not deliberately fish 700-800 Burrard St
an authorized angler or a companion to an
for the species named even if your intention Vancouver BC V6Z 2J8
authorized angler. An authorized angler can
is to release any fish that you may catch. If or call 604-666-2681
be accompanied by up to two companion
you accidentally catch a fish of the species
anglers.
named, you must release it as quickly and All anglers of any age must comply with all
carefully as possible (see “Proper Fish Boating Regulations regulations set out in this Synopsis as well
Handling”, page 75). Boating regulations are adopted for either as any in-season changes as made public by
fisheries management or public safety the Ministry. The regulations described in this
Bait Ban: the use of natural bait (see
reasons. The various regulations include: Synopsis do not apply to tidal waters.
definition of bait on page 8) is prohibited in
waters with a bait ban. Bait may be banned

4 2023-2025 BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis

 Buying a Licence

Licence Fees

All annual licences are valid for the current licence year, April 1st to March 31st, commencing on the date purchased.
Licences are not transferrable. Taxes not included in fees listed below.

LICENCE TYPE RESIDENT* NON-RESIDENT* NON-RESIDENT ALIEN*

Basic Licences
Annual Angling Licence $39.56 $60.44 $87.92
One Day Angling Licence $10.99 $21.98 $21.98
Eight Day Angling Licence $21.98 $39.56 $54.96
Annual Licence for Disabled $1.10 $60.44 $87.92
Annual Licence for Age 65 Plus $5.50** $60.44 $87.92
Conservation Surcharge Stamps (see page 7)
Steelhead $27.48 $65.94 $65.94
Non-Tidal Salmon $16.49 $32.97 $32.97
Kootenay Lake Rainbow Trout $10.99 $21.98 $21.98
Shuswap Lake Rainbow Trout $10.99 $21.98 $21.98
Shuswap Lake Char $10.99 $21.98 $21.98
White Sturgeon Conservation Licences (see page 7)
Annual $27.48 $65.94 $65.94
One Day $8.79 $16.49 $16.49
Eight Day $16.49 $32.97 $32.97
Classified Waters Licences (see page 7)
Classified Waters Licence (annual) $16.49 ★ ★
Class I Waters Licence ★ $43.96/day $43.96/day
Class II Waters Licence ★ $21.98/day $21.98/day
There will be a 4% increase to angling licence fees on April 1, 2024. See in-season changes in April 2024: www.gov.bc.ca/FishingRegulations

* See definitions of “Resident”, “Non-resident”, and “Non-resident Alien” on page 80.

Members of the Canadian armed services and students returning to B.C. may be eligible to
purchase licences at the Resident rate. For more information, contact FrontCounter BC.
** BC resident anglers aged 65 and over have the option to purchase an annual basic
licence at the reduced rate of $5.50 or at the full BC resident rate of $39.56. 100% of
license sales revenue goes to the Freshwater Fisheries Society of B.C. and the Habitat
Conservation Trust Foundation; purchasing your licence at full cost supports these
organizations and can help with the conservation of the provinces freshwater fish
resources and improve future angling opportunities. There is no difference in the angling
opportunities available for the full price and reduced rate licences.
★ Not available. See “Classified Waters Licences”, page 7.
NOTES: You may buy as many One Day and Eight Day Licences (covering 8 consecutive
days) as you need, but only ONE Annual Licence.
Most licence fees include a conservation surcharge administered by the Habitat Conservation
Trust Foundation.

2023-2025 BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis 5

 Buying a Licence

Proof of Identity and Authorization Indigenous Fishing in Non-tidal Waters BC, FrontCounter BC, and licence vendors
When fishing, you must produce your angling First Nations have established aboriginal locations, go to www.gov.bc.ca/fish-
licence and photo ID, on the request of an rights to harvest fish from non-tidal waters for licence.
officer. Electronic licences are acceptable food, social and ceremonial purposes in their Lost licences
however paper licences are required when traditional areas, and that treaty First Nations You must be in possession of a valid licence
retaining hatchery steelhead, chinook, have treaty rights in relation to harvesting prior to resuming fishing.
Shuswap Lake char or rainbow trout, or fish in non-tidal waters. Such uses of fish • Do not buy a new licence. You are only
Kootenay Lake rainbow trout. from non-tidal waters must be sustainable, permitted one annual angling licence per
If you are 16 years of age or older: and harvesting methods must not jeopardize year.
• You must have a valid basic licence safety or the use and enjoyment of property.
Any fishing from non-tidal waters for sale or • If you lose the licence that you purchased
to sport fish for any species of fish in
barter, in whole or in part, is not legal, except on-line, you can:
non-tidal waters (including salmon) - see
as authorized by regulation or where there - Reprint it from the Internet,
definition of “fish” on page 80.
is a demonstrated aboriginal or treaty right - Get a Service BC or FrontCounter BC
• You must purchase appropriate to do so. office to reprint it for you, or
supplementary licences and stamps. - Get a licence vendor to reprint a copy
Under the Wildlife Act “Indian” means a
• You must carry your licence while sport person who is defined as an Indian under the (there may be a fee).
fishing and, if asked, produce it for Indian Act (Canada). • Your retention record (see below) must be
inspection by a Conservation Officer, If you are an Indian and a resident of B.C., transferred to the new copy.
Fishery Officer, RCMP constable, Park you are not required to obtain any type
Ranger in a park, or an Officer under the Conservation Surcharges
of fishing licence or stamp to sport fish in
Wildlife Act. Your basic angling licence can be validated
non-tidal waters.
with up to five annual Conservation
• Basic and supplementary licences and Indians who are residents of B.C. and Surcharge Stamps described in detail below,
stamps are not valid in National Parks. wish to fish in non-tidal waters outside plus a White Sturgeon Conservation Licence.
their traditionally used areas must do so
If you are under 16 and a resident of B.C.: The stamps are valid for the licence year
in accordance with the Freshwater Fishing
• You may sport fish without any licence or (April 1 to March 31).
Regulations.
stamp (but must abide by the regulations).
If an individual is in doubt regarding If a copy of your basic licence is reprinted, all
• You do not need to be accompanied by a traditional fishing in a non-tidal water, they your retention records must be transferred to
licence holder. should be in contact with the appropriate the new copy.
• You are entitled to your own quota of fish. First Nations officials and the regional
Fisheries Program staff to discuss specific Steelhead
If you are under 16 and not a resident situations. Your basic licence must be validated with
of B.C.: a Conservation Surcharge Stamp if you fish
Métis:
• You do not require any licence or stamp to for steelhead anywhere in B.C. (whether you
A reminder that all Métis individuals
sport fish, but you must be accompanied keep or release your catch). In addition, a
intending to sport fish in non-tidal waters
by a person 16 years or older who holds Steelhead Stamp is mandatory when fishing
are required, under the Wildlife Act, to hold
the appropriate licences and stamps. on most Classified Waters during certain
appropriate angling licences and stamps, and
• Any fish you keep must be counted as specified periods, even when fishing for
comply with all angling regulations.
part of the catch and possession of your species other than steelhead. Refer to the
accompanying licence holder. Purchasing a Licence regional tables for dates and exceptions.
Non-Tidal Angling Licences are available
• If you want to catch and keep your own This stamp is available with all annual and
online. The Non-Tidal (Freshwater) Fishing
quota of fish, you must buy a licence and short-term basic licences. The steelhead
E-Licensing system allows anglers to register
any necessary supplementary licences and stamp is valid for a licence year. You must
to obtain an Angler Number and purchase
stamps. immediately record your retention of
their basic Non-Tidal Angling Licence,
hatchery steelhead on your basic angling
If you are a resident of B.C. and disabled: Classified Waters Licences, White Sturgeon
licence. Please retain your basic licence
You may qualify for a fee reduction on your Conservation Licences and Conservation
for the entire licence year as you may be
basic licence. To get an application form Surcharge Stamps, at any time.
requested to complete an annual steelhead
contact any Service BC or FrontCounter BC Where To Buy A Licence survey.
office or write to: To purchase your non-tidal angling licence
NOTE: The annual province-wide quota for
Fish and Wildlife Branch on-line or for further information, please go
hatchery steelhead is 10. All wild steelhead
PO Box 9363 STN PROV GOVT to www.gov.bc.ca/fish-licence.
must be released. See definition of "hatchery
Victoria BC V8W 9M2 Anglers may also obtain electronic licences trout" and "wild trout" on page 80.
NOTE: Refunds will not be issued for licences from their local Service BC or FrontCounter
Non-Tidal Salmon
already purchased at the full price. BC office or any licence vendor who may
Your basic licence must be validated with
offer this service. For a listing of Service
a Conservation Surcharge Stamp to keep a
6 2023-2025 BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis
salmon of any legal size or species (other B.C. at https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/ purchasing your licence. Although anglers
than kokanee) from non-tidal waters. A stamp gov/sports-recreation-arts-and-culture/ may purchase as many Classified Waters
is not required if you release all salmon outdoor-recreation/fishing-and-hunting/ Licences as they wish, each licence may not
caught. You must immediately record your freshwater-fishing/ws_guidelines.pdf exceed 8 consecutive days.
retention of adult chinook salmon on your Please note that this is the only white
EXCEPTION: Non-Resident Aliens (whether
basic angling licence. sturgeon fishery in the province’s non-tidal
GUIDED or NON-GUIDED) may only purchase
waters.
For definition of adult chinook see page 77. one Classified Waters Licence for the Dean
Classified Waters Licences River per licence year.
For regulations related to angling for salmon
The classified waters of B.C. are highly
in B.C. visit the Fisheries and Oceans Canada NOTE: Non-guided Non-Resident Aliens
productive trout streams. These streams are
website at https://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/ wishing to fish the Class I - Main Section of
classified as either Class I or Class II and
index-eng.htm or by email: info@dfo-mpo. the Dean River should refer to pages 43 and
are listed in the Water-Specific Tables for
gc.ca. 45 for details.
each Region. The Classified Waters Licensing
Kootenay Lake Rainbow Trout System was created to protect the unique Is Your Angling Guide Licenced?
Your basic licence must be validated with fishing opportunities provided by these Anglers who use the services of an
a Conservation Surcharge Stamp to keep waters, which contribute significantly to the unlicenced angling guide risk being
rainbow trout over 50 cm from the main body province’s reputation as a world-class fishing convicted of an offence.
of Kootenay Lake. You must immediately destination.
Anglers securing the services of an Angling
record your retention on your basic angling
All anglers required to buy a basic angling Guide can be certain that person is licensed by:
licence.
licence must also purchase a Classified
Waters Licence before fishing on a stream • Asking to see their current Angling Guide
No Conservation Surcharge Stamp is required
during the period when it is classified. Licence (or Assistant Angling Guide
if you release all Kootenay Lake rainbow
Licence); OR
trout over 50 cm.
This licence is required in addition to the • Confirming their status by contacting
Shuswap Lake Char basic angling licence and any other stamps FrontCounter BC (FCBC) at one of the
Your basic licence must be validated with a required by regulation. Also note that a following:
Conservation Surcharge Stamp to keep char Steelhead Conservation Surcharge Stamp - By Phone: Toll free at 1-877-855-
over 60 cm caught in Shuswap Lake. You is required at all times when fishing for 3222, from outside North America
must immediately record your retention on steelhead, or when fishing classified waters ++1-778-372-0729
your basic angling licence. during the period when steelhead are known - By Email: FrontCounterBC@gov.bc.ca
to be present. The specific times when a
No Conservation Surcharge Stamp is Steelhead Stamp is mandatory are listed in Family Fishing Weekend
required if you release all Shuswap Lake char the Water-Specific Tables for each Region. An annual celebration of fishing that
over 60 cm.
coincides with Father’s Day weekend each
If you are a B.C. resident:
Shuswap Lake Rainbow Trout year. The provincial government waives
Your Classified Waters Licence is valid for the
Your basic licence must be validated with the requirement for residents of Canada to
licencing year. This means you can fish on
a Conservation Surcharge Stamp to keep buy or carry a non-tidal (freshwater) basic
any Class I or Class II water in the province
rainbow trout over 50 cm from Shuswap licence during the third weekend in June,
during the year.
Lake, Little Shuswap Lake, South Thompson and the Friday immediately prior. The federal
River between Shuswap Lake and Little If you are a non-guided “Non-Resident” or Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada,
Shuswap Lake, Seymour, Anstey and Salmon non-guided “Non-Resident Alien”: which manages tidal waters, also offers the
Arms and Mara Lake. You must immediately Your Classified Waters Licence for Class I or opportunity to go saltwater fishing for free.
record your retention on your basic Class II waters is sold on a per diem basis This is a great opportunity to get together
angling licence. and is date and water-specific. Although with family and friends and try fishing!
anglers may purchase as many Classified
No Conservation Surcharge Stamp is required Anglers must still adhere to catch quotas and
Waters Licences as they wish, each licence
if you release all Shuswap Lake rainbow trout regulations. And if you plan to fish for species
may not exceed 8 consecutive days. A
over 50 cm. that require a conservation surcharge stamp
first-come-first-serve booking system is in
(steelhead, Shuswap Lake rainbow trout
White Sturgeon place for these Kootenay Class II waters:
and char, Kootenay Lake rainbow trout,
You must purchase a White Sturgeon Michel Creek, Skookumchuck Creek, and
white sturgeon, and salmon in both tidal and
Conservation Licence, in addition to your the Wigwam River.
non-tidal waters); or angle Classified Waters
basic licence, if you fish for white sturgeon If you are a GUIDED “Non-Resident” or a (highly productive trout streams; listed as
in the Fraser River Watershed (including guided “Non-Resident Alien”: Class I or Class II waters in the water-specific
tributaries) from the CPR Bridge at Mission Your Classified Waters Licence for Class I or tables of the fishing regulations) you are
to and including Williams Lake River in the Class II waters is sold on a per diem basis still required to purchase the appropriate
Cariboo. This is a catch-and-release only and is date and water-specific. If guided licence(s) and conservation surcharge
fishery - all sturgeon must be released. See confirm with your angling guide before stamps.
Guidelines for Angling White Sturgeon in

2023-2025 BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis 7

 Provincial Regulations

Allowable Fishing Methods It Is Unlawful To.... • Please refer to additional restrictions and
Your basic fishing licence entitles you to: • Use barbed hooks or a hook with more requirements on pages 8-10.
than one point in any river, stream, creek
• angle with one fishing line to which only Rules on Bait Usage
or slough in B.C. (Note: the use of barbed
one hook, one artificial lure OR one “Bait” is any foodstuff or natural substance
hooks in lakes is permitted, unless noted
artificial fly is attached. used to attract fish, other than wood, cotton,
in the Regional Water-Specific Tables).
wool, hair, fur or feathers. It does not include
• angle with a downrigger, provided the
• Angle with a fishing line to which more fin fish, other than roe. It includes roe, worms
fishing line is attached to the downrigger
than one artificial fly is attached (i.e., to and other edible substances, as well as
by a quick-release mechanism.
use “dropper flies”). scents and flavourings containing natural
• ice fish with one line and one lure, artificial substances or nutrients.
• Use a light in any manner to attract fish,
fly or other terminal attractor. It is your
unless the light is submerged and attached Roe… you must not have more than 1 kg of
legal responsibility to warn other people of
to the fishing line within 1 m of the hook. roe (fish eggs) in your possession for use
the existence of your ice hole and remove
as bait unless the roe was obtained from a
your ice hut before ice breakup. • Fish with nets, including dip nets, minnow
commercial source that lawfully obtained that
nets, gill nets or cast nets.
• fish with a set line. You may only fish with roe, or you have in your possession the freshly
a set line (an unattended line) in lakes of • Snag (foul hook) fish (see definition, dressed fish from which the roe in excess of 1
Region 6 and Region 7A. You are allowed page 80). Any fish willfully or accidentally kg was taken. Carry a receipt with you if you
to use only one line with one hook (no snagged must be released immediately. purchased roe from a commercial source.
smaller than 3 cm from point to shank -
• Angle with more than one line, EXCEPT Aquatic invertebrates… you may use
see below). Any game fish that you catch
a person who is alone in a boat on a lake freshwater invertebrates (e.g., aquatic
other than burbot must be released. Set
may angle with two lines. insects and crayfish) in streams as bait
lines must be marked with angler’s name,
unless a bait ban applies. No person shall
address, and telephone number. • Place any fishing gear in any water use as bait or possess for that purpose any
during a No Fishing period. freshwater invertebrate (this includes the
• Set Line Hook (shown 1/2 size)
• Angle with a fishing line to which more aquatic stage of any insect, such as dragonfly
than 1 kg of weight is attached (this does nymphs or caddisfly larvae) at a lake.
Point
not apply to downrigger weights). Chumming… attempting to attract fish by
Shank • Waste the fish you catch. If your fish is depositing any substance in the water, is
at least 3cm not suitable for eating or if possession is prohibited.
illegal because of quotas, size limits or Fin fish… means all fish other than
closed seasons, return the fish quickly and crustaceans, echinoderms, molluscs,
gently to the water. shellfish, and marine mammals. The use
• fish with a spear or an arrow that is • Release fish in a harmful manner if you of fin fish (dead or alive) or parts of fin fish
propelled by a spring, an elastic band, are not going to keep your catch. Follow other than roe is prohibited throughout the
compressed air, a bow, or by hand. Only the catch and release tips on page 75. province, with the following exceptions: You
non-game fish (such as carp) may be may use the head of fin fish or the headless
speared, except burbot, which may also • Buy, sell or barter or attempt to buy, sell body of fin fish as bait, only:
be speared in Regions 3, 5, 6, 7 and 8. or barter any fish caught by sport fishing.
No spear fishing of any other game fish (a) when sport fishing for sturgeon in Region
• Damage or interfere with a trap set 2 only on the Fraser River, Lower Pitt River
(as defined on page 80), Pacific salmon for furbearers. If you believe the trap
or protected species (page 9) is permitted (CPR Bridge upstream to Pitt Lake), Lower
has been set illegally, report it to a Harrison River (Fraser River upstream to
anywhere in B.C. No spear fishing of any Conservation Officer.
kind is permitted in Region 1, 2, and 4. Harrison Lake), or
• Have any live fish in your possession (b) when set lining in lakes of Region 6 or in
• trap crayfish with any number or size of in the wild, or move any live fish or live
traps for personal consumption. You must lakes of Zone A of Region 7.
aquatic invertebrates around the province,
release all fin fish caught in your trap. To or transplant them into any waters of Quotas
help sustain crayfish populations, you B.C. Do not keep angled fish alive in a For all game fish, there is a quota or limit on
should release any crayfish that are less “livewell” or other device, or on stringers, the number of fish you may retain.
than 9 cm in total length as well as those and never use live fish as bait or release
bearing eggs or young. Refer to the Regional Chapters for additional
your aquarium fish to the wild. “High- information on regional and water-specific
All other methods of taking fin fish and grading” is illegal. quotas.
crayfish are illegal. • Enter or cross cultivated land, posted Daily quota… the maximum number of fish
land, private land, or Indian Reserve of a given species, group of species, or size
land without proper permission. class that you may retain in one calendar day.

8 2023-2025 BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis

 Provincial Regulations

Possession quota… no more than twice the Cultus Lake Sculpin Not all No Fishing areas are signed in the
daily quota unless otherwise specified (see Enos Lake Stickleback field. Make sure you read the Regional
definition, page 80). Regulations for the area in which you will be
Misty Lake Stickleback
fishing. If you have any questions, contact
Monthly quota… the maximum number of Nooksack Dace the local Fish and Wildlife Regional Office.
fish that you are allowed to retain in one
Paxton Lake Stickleback
calendar month. Ecological Reserves
Rocky Mountain Sculpin Fishing is prohibited in Ecological Reserves in
Annual quota… the maximum number of fish
Shorthead Sculpin B.C. A complete list of ecological reserves is
that you are allowed to retain in one licence
Salish Sucker available from BC Parks headquarters at:
year (April 1 to March 31).
Vananda Creek Stickleback PO Box 9398, STN PROV GOVT
Quotas are not cumulative: you cannot
Vancouver Lamprey Victoria BC V8W 9M9
possess a quota from each region that you
fish. As a general guideline, never have in Western Brook Lamprey (Morrison Creek or on the BC Parks website:
your possession while at or near any lake or population) https://bcparks.ca/about/types-parks-
stream, more fish than the allowable quota White Sturgeon (Nechako, Upper Fraser, protected-areas/ecological-reserves/.
for that lake or stream. Check the Regional Kootenay and Columbia populations)
Regulations and Tables for daily catch quotas BC Parks
for B.C. sport fish. For more information on protected species, Individuals visiting a Provincial Park,
please visit Environment Canada’s website at Conservancy, Recreation Area or Protected
Size Limits https://www.canada.ca/en/environment- Area should be aware that the Park Act and
Size limits protect fish of certain sizes. climate-change/services/species-risk- its regulations apply, as do the sport fishing
Measure your fish from the tip of the nose public-registry.html. regulations in this Synopsis.
to the fork of the tail to determine its legal Fluctuating Lake & Reservoir Levels NOTE: The use of horses, motor vehicles,
length. Water levels in lakes and especially motorcycles, snowmobiles, other self-
Fork Length
reservoirs, can fluctuate over the year. These propelled vehicles, or bicycles is generally
Adipose Fin fluctuations result in a change in the location prohibited in Provincial Parks, Conservancies,
of stream mouths (please check the definition and Recreation Areas except where
of "streams" and "stream mouths" on page specifically authorized. All motorized vehicles
80). Note that a stream flowing through the on park roads must be licensed. The use
drawdown portion of a reservoir basin is still of aircraft to arrive or depart from some
considered to be a stream, not part of the parks is restricted. Activities in parks may
Size limits are listed with quotas in the reservoir. Anglers are reminded that lake be regulated by signs posted on site. More
Regional Regulations and in the Regional and stream regulations may differ. information can be found at BC Parks website
Water-Specific Tables. If you catch a fish https://bcparks.ca/
No Fishing Areas
protected by a min. or max. size limit, release Most waters in B.C. are open to fishing for National Parks
it as quickly and carefully as possible (see some species 24 hours of the day, every day The seven National Parks within British
"Proper Fish Handling," page 75). of the year. Columbia are: Kootenay, Yoho, Glacier,
Minimum size limits allow fish to spawn at Mount Revelstoke, Pacific Rim, Gwaii Haanas
There are five basic exceptions:
least once before they can be caught and and Gulf Islands.
kept. There is no general minimum size • No fishing areas: See Regional Tables. No
Freshwater fishing is prohibited in
limits for trout/char in B.C. waters, EXCEPT Fishing in the water specific tables apply
National Parks unless opened under the
where specifically indicated in the Regional to all species, are year round and apply to
National Parks Fishing Regulations. Where
Daily Catch Quotas or for waters listed in the the entire water body (unless otherwise
open, anglers require a National Park Fishing
Regional Water-Specific Tables. noted);
Permit to fish in park waters.
Maximum size limits allow larger fish • Within Ecological Reserves (this page);
A provincial angling licence is not valid unless
to be released to provide future fishing otherwise stated for any fresh water within
• Within 23 m downstream of the lower
opportunities. National Parks or National Park Reserves.
entrance to any fishway, canal, obstacle
Protected Species or leap;
National Park Fishing Permits and
It is illegal to fish for, or catch and Regulations are available at park visitor
• Within a 100 m radius of any government
retain any of the fish listed below. If you centres and at some local commercial
facility operated for counting, passing or
accidentally catch one, you must release it outlets. The National Parks Fishing
rearing fish (e.g., fishway, fish hatchery)
right away where you captured it. The fish on Regulations may also be viewed at
unless otherwise designated; and
this list are considered to be at risk in Canada www.pc.gc.ca by selecting a park and
and are legally protected by federal statutes. • Within National Parks unless a specific clicking on “Activities,” then “Fishing,” or by
location is identified as being open (see contacting Parks Canada at 1-888-773-8888.
“National Parks” on this page).

2023-2025 BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis 9

 Provincial Regulations

All fresh waters within Pacific Rim National If you are transporting fish for someone NOTE: There are exemptions from the
Park Reserve, Gwaii Haanas National Park else: angling guide licensing requirements for
Reserve and Gulf Islands National Park certain uses of aircraft and motor vehicles
Reserve are closed to fishing throughout the • Obtain and carry a signed letter from that
for commercial purposes. There are
2023-2025 season. person with the following details: the
also exemptions for some fishing school
angler’s name, address, telephone number
operations. For more information about
For information about the 2023-2025 and fishing licence number; when and
angling guide requirements and exemptions,
season, contact Parks Canada or visit where the fish were caught; the date and
please contact a Fish & Wildlife Regional
https://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/rec/ place at which you were given the fish; the
Office.
restricted-restreint-eng.html. number, species and size of the fish that
you have been given and the name and How to Become an Angling Guide
Keeping and Transporting Your Catch address of the person to whom the fish are Information on basic eligibility, the Angling
To comply with the law, follow these simple to be delivered. Guide Exam, and the subsequent steps to
guidelines when you clean and transport obtaining a new Angling Guide Licence is
• If you will be exporting the fish from
your fish in non-tidal water (for all species available on the FrontCounter BC website
B.C., carry the letter and ensure that
except salmon). www.frontcounterbc.gov.bc.ca/info/.
it is available for inspection by fishery
• Do not can, bottle or fillet fish caught by enforcement and/or customs officers if
sport fishing in non-tidal waters except at requested to do so.
your permanent residence (commercial
If someone else caught the fish and gave it
canning of these fish is not permitted).
to you for your personal consumption:
• Leave the head, tail, and all fins on
• Keep in your possession a signed letter
your catch until you get them to your
from the angler until you have eaten the
permanent (ordinary) residence. We
fish.
suggest you immediately remove the gills
and internal organs of any fish you keep to • The letter should list the name, address
reduce spoilage. and telephone number of the angler who
gave you the fish; the number, species and
• Do not freeze fish together in an
size of the fish; and when and where the
unrecognizable block.
fish were caught.
• Please refer to the fish cleaning guidelines
in “Angling Safety in Bear Country” on Angling Guides in British Columbia
page 76. Who Needs an Angling Guide Licence?
In British Columbia, a person commits an
• The management of salmon fisheries
offence if a person does not hold a valid
in B.C., in both tidal and freshwater,
angling guide or assistant angling guide
is the responsibility of Fisheries and
licence and acts as a “guide for fish” or
Oceans Canada (DFO). Information about
offers to do so.
packaging and transporting salmon is
available at https://www.pac.dfo-mpo. A person acts as a “guide for fish” when a
gc.ca/fm-gp/rec/salmon-saumon-eng. person does one or more of the following
html. activities for compensation or reward (either
received or promised):
Transporting and Exporting Fish
In order to enforce quotas and size limits, 1. A
 ccompanies another person and assists
our officers must be able to count, measure that person to angle; OR
and identify your catch.
2. Attends another person at or near an
If you caught the fish yourself you must: angling site in a way that directly or
indirectly assists that person to angle; OR
• Keep your angling licence handy while
travelling. 3. Transports another person to and from an
angling site, or between angling sites, for
• Transport or possess no more than your
the purpose of angling.
legal limit.
It is also an offence for an angling guide to
• Ensure your fish can be identified, counted
employ another person to “guide for fish”
and measured if necessary (see “Wrap it
if that person does not hold an assistant
Right”).
angling guide licence.

10 2023-2025 BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis