Manitoba has proposed amendments to the Fisheries Act that would include angling licence exemptions for active military members, veterans and seniors as part of its strategy to modernize the management of fisheries and angling in the province.
As recreational angling continues to grow, our government is implementing a modernization strategy to reduce red tape, enhance the protection of valuable fish stocks and create new fishing opportunities for Manitobans to enjoy,” said Natural Resources and Northern Development Minister Greg Nesbitt.
More than 22,000 seniors take part in recreational fishing annually in Manitoba. Under the proposed amendments seniors would need to show proof of age and residency when requested by conservation officers.
Other proposed amendments to the legislation include:
- moving to a single annual licence type;
- adding a one-day angling licence option;
- making modest fee changes;
- allowing anglers to carry an electronic copy of their licence;
- creating consistent residency definitions for anglers, hunters and trappers;
- 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; and
- amending ice fishing shelter requirements.
