With a number of fairly dramatic changes to angling limits and seasons the Department of Agriculture and Resource Development wanted to get public feedback to see if they were on the right track.
The Strategy outlined a suite of proposed angling regulation changes aimed at increasing opportunities for angling, while enhancing protection of Manitoba’s valuable fish populations. The “What We Heard” report provides an overview of the engagement results and outlines modifications being made to the Strategy based on the feedback received.
Stakeholder organizations that represent over 10,000 anglers participated in 15 engagement meetings and events. In addition, over 1,440 responses were received through EngageMB.
“Manitoba Lodges and Outfitters would like to commend the Manitoba government for their commitment to creating sustainable fisheries in Manitoba,” said DJ Seales, president, Manitoba Lodges and Outfitters Association. “The proposed changes will make sure that future generations of anglers will be able to enjoy this fragile resource.”
Those proposed changes include simplifying the angling license to one yearly license, along with the addition of a one day license. Seniors will no longer require a license in hand. Angling licenses will also go digital with no signature required.
There are significant changes in the protection of our fish species. These include no retention of walleye over 55 centimetres and a limit of four province wide. Anglers will also be able to fish year round for a number of species, including northern pike, smallmouth bass, crappies and catfish.
There was also considerable public push to increase angling violation fines and enforcement in the province. The most contentious issue was the banning of the sales of live minnows and leeches by the year 2027. The province has agreed to extend public consultation on this issue. The new proposed regulations are scheduled to come into effect April 1, 2023.
Overall it’s ground breaking legislation that will have the attention of other jurisdictions across North America, especially our neighbor to the west. You can check out more at
https://gov.mb.ca/asset_library/en/proactive/20212022/whatweheard-rec-angling-startegy.pdf