Question 1

How much does a freshwater fishing licence cost in BC?

Accepted Answer

The basic annual licence is $41.15 for BC residents (ages 16–64) and $5.71 for seniors aged 65 and older. Short-term options cost $11.43 for 1 day and $22.86 for 8 days. Canadians from other provinces pay $62.87 a year and visitors from outside Canada $91.44. Basic licences for disabled BC residents are $1.14.

Question 2

How long does it take to get a freshwater fishing licence in BC?

Accepted Answer

Same day. You can register for your free Fish and Wildlife ID (FWID) and purchase your non-tidal angling licence in about 10 minutes online through the provincial WILD system.

Question 3

How old do you have to be to get a freshwater fishing licence in BC?

Accepted Answer

16 years old. Anyone aged 16 and older must hold a valid licence to fish non-tidal lakes and rivers in BC. Residents under 16 can fish for free without a licence, but must be accompanied by someone who holds a valid licence.

Question 4

Do I need a different licence for saltwater?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A freshwater licence covers non-tidal waters only. If you fish in the ocean or tidal sections of coastal rivers, you need a federal Pacific Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Licence issued by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO).

Question 5

Can I buy it online?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All recreational freshwater angling licences can be purchased online through the BC Government WILD (Wildlife and Commercial Environmental Licensing) website using a Basic BCeID or verified BC Services Card.

How to get a freshwater fishing licence in BC

The route at a glance

Register for a Free Fish and Wildlife ID (FWID)

Purchase Basic Freshwater Angling Licence

Species Conservation Surcharges & Classified Waters

Register for a Free Fish and Wildlife ID (FWID)

Purchase Basic Freshwater Angling Licence

Species Conservation Surcharges & Classified Waters

Common questions

How much does a freshwater fishing licence cost in BC?

How long does it take to get a freshwater fishing licence in BC?

How old do you have to be to get a freshwater fishing licence in BC?

Do I need a different licence for saltwater?

Can I buy it online?

Official application portals & fee schedules

Recreational Freshwater Fishing Licences

WILD Online Licensing Portal

DFO Pacific Tidal Fishing Licences