In its recent efforts to modernize recreational fishing regulations, the Government of Manitoba has proposed substantial revisions to the Manitoba Fishery Regulations, 1987 (MBFR). These proposed changes are designed to enhance fishing opportunities while ensuring the sustainability of fish populations and supporting the local fishing industry.

These adjustments are intended to balance the interests of recreational anglers with the need for fish conservation. By reducing daily catch limits and introducing size restrictions, the regulations aim to prevent overfishing and support the recovery of fish populations. The proposed amendments, scheduled to take effect on April 1, 2023. Key changes include:

• • Catch Limits: Daily and possession limits for several fish species will be revised. For example, the limit for lake trout will be reduced from 2 to 1, and the limit for walleye and sauger will decrease from 6 to 4. New limits will be established for species such as burbot, bluegill, and pumpkinseed. These adjustments aim to protect fish stocks by limiting the number of fish that can be retained.
  • Size Restrictions: New size limits will be introduced for certain fish species. Black crappie longer than 35 cm must be released, and burbot longer than 70 cm must be returned to the water. These size limits are intended to safeguard larger fish that are vital for spawning and maintaining healthy fish populations.
  • Fishing Seasons: Most fish species will now be available for fishing year-round, with exceptions in place to protect spawning fish. For instance, fishing for walleye, sauger, and lake sturgeon will remain closed during specific periods in certain areas to protect their spawning seasons.
  • Regulation Simplifications: The regulations will eliminate the current two-tier fishing license system in favor of a single annual recreational license. This change aims to simplify the licensing process and streamline quota limits and possession rules for all license holders.
  • Ice Fishing Rules: New rules will require ice fishing shelters to display only a phone number instead of a personal address. Additionally, the deadline for removing ice fishing shelters will be advanced to March 15 in parts of southern Manitoba to address early spring ice breakup, enhancing safety.
  • Updated Water Lists and Restrictions: Several water bodies will be added or removed from the lists of stocked waters with specific fishing restrictions. This includes new restrictions on fishing methods and bait types in certain lakes to protect stocked fish and prevent the introduction of invasive species.

Canada SOR/2023-28, February 17, 2023.