Manitoba anglers are being encouraged to prepare for the upcoming fishing season with the release of the 2026 Anglers’ Guide, now available online.
Natural Resources and Indigenous Futures Minister Ian Bushie said the annual guide provides essential information for both residents and visitors heading out on the water this spring.
“The release of the Manitoba Anglers’ Guide 2026 marks the start of another exciting fishing season,” Bushie said. “During these free fishing days, I encourage Manitobans and visitors to enjoy their time outdoors safely and responsibly.”
As part of spring break, anglers can fish without a provincial licence until April 5. However, federal licences remain required for those fishing in national parks.
New regulations for the 2026 season took effect April 1, including updated angling licence fees and changes to some possession limits and size restrictions. The full guide is available online, with printed copies expected to arrive later this month at retailers that sell angling licences.
Anglers targeting walleye and sauger are reminded to pay close attention to seasonal closures across Manitoba’s fishing divisions.
In the southern division, the season closes April 6 and reopens May 9, except on Lake Winnipeg, where the season opens May 16. In the northwest and north central divisions, the season closes May 1 and reopens May 16.
Fishing for these species is prohibited during the closed periods.
Additional restrictions are also in place for specific waterways. Dauphin Lake and its tributaries — excluding the Vermilion Reservoir — close to fishing April 1. From April 6 to May 8, several areas are closed to all fishing, including sections of the Red River between Lockport Dam and Lake Winnipeg, as well as parts of the Assiniboine River downstream of the Portage Diversion.
Officials are also reminding anglers to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by ensuring all watercraft and related equipment are properly cleaned, drained and dried after each use.
More details on regulations, fees and fishing zones can be found in the Manitoba Anglers’ Guide 2026, available online, with print editions to follow later in April.
