Manitoba anglers are gearing up for walleye and sauger fishing season, which officially opens tomorrow in the southern fishing division, with the season opening one week later on Lake Winnipeg and in the Northwest and North Central fishing divisions.
“It’s no secret anglers have been eagerly waiting to get out on the water and start fishing for walleye and sauger, so starting this weekend, anglers in the Southern fishing division will be able to cast a line for two of Manitoba’s most popular fish species,” said Natural Resources and Northern Development Minister Greg Nesbitt. “We are also excited for the first season that makes it easier for Manitoba seniors to fish for free by simply showing proof of age and residency upon request of a conservation officer.”
Approximately 22,000 Manitoba seniors take part in recreational fishing, and until recently, they needed to apply for a Manitoba Resident Senior Angling Licence every year, the minister noted. This year, the Manitoba government has also implemented angling licence exemptions for active military members and veterans who reside in Manitoba.
With the late spring conditions that Manitoba is experiencing, deteriorating ice, fast-flowing currents and cold water temperatures may be present. Anglers are reminded to follow safe boating measures, wear life jackets, check water conditions and use caution.
Some fish may still be spawning due to the late spring conditions. Anglers are asked to help protect fish stocks by immediately releasing fish that are discharging eggs. By proactively releasing spawning fish, anglers will help protect fish stocks and sustain Manitoba’s fisheries, noted the minister.
Anglers are reminded that a suite of new angling regulations came into effect April 1, which includes new possession limits and size restrictions for certain species. Other changes include new angling licence types and fees. For more information on all angling regulations, refer to the 2023 Manitoba Anglers’ Guide at manitobafisheries.com.
Water users are reminded that regulations are in place to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS). These include requirements to clean, drain and dry watercraft and water-related gear as well as the requirement for anyone transporting a watercraft (e.g. power boats, canoes, and jet skis) to stop at watercraft inspection stations when they are open. For more information on AIS, requirements, and locations and hours of watercraft inspection stations, visit manitoba.ca.
