Fishing is a popular pastime in Alberta, Canada, attracting anglers from all over the world. However, before you can cast your line, you need to purchase a valid fishing license. The cost of an Alberta fishing license varies depending on your age, residency status, and the type of license you need. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of fishing licenses available in Alberta and their associated costs for 2024.
Types of Fishing Licenses in Alberta
Alberta offers several types of fishing licenses to accommodate different anglers:
Annual Sportfishing License: This license is valid for one year from the date of purchase and allows the holder to fish in Alberta’s waters. The cost for an adult Alberta resident is $28.00, while non-residents pay $60.00 for Canadian citizens and $85.00 for those from outside Canada.
Limited (7-day) Sportfishing License: This license is valid for seven consecutive days and is available to non-residents only. The cost is $41.00 for Canadian citizens and $55.00 for those from outside Canada.
Limited (1-day) Sportfishing License: This license is valid for one day and is available to non-residents only. The cost is $25.00 for Canadian citizens and $26.63 for those from outside Canada.
Youth License: Anglers under the age of 16 do not require a license to fish in Alberta.
Senior License: Alberta residents aged 65 and older do not require a license to fish.
First Nations’ Peoples: Indigenous people do not require a sportfishing license.
Purchasing a Fishing License in Alberta
Fishing licenses in Alberta can be purchased through several channels:
Online: Anglers can purchase licenses online through the AlbertaRELM website.
Retail Outlets: Licenses are available for purchase at various retail outlets throughout the province, such as sporting goods stores and bait shops.
Licence Issuers: Private license issuers, authorized by the government, sell fishing licenses at their locations.
When purchasing a license, anglers must have a valid Wildlife Identification Number (WiN). If you don’t have a WiN, you can apply for one at the time of purchase.
Additional Fees and Considerations
In addition to the license fees, anglers should be aware of the following:
A 5% federal Goods and Services Tax (GST) is added to the license cost.
Anglers who lose their license can obtain a reprint for a $2.00 fee at a license issuer or online at no charge.
Anglers who lose their tags must visit a Fish and Wildlife District Office with their license and complete a statutory declaration to authorize a replacement.
It’s important to note that fishing regulations and restrictions vary depending on the specific water body and species being targeted. Anglers should familiarize themselves with the Alberta Guide to Sportfishing Regulations before heading out.
In conclusion, the cost of an Alberta fishing license in 2024 ranges from no charge for youth, seniors, and Indigenous people to $85.00 for an annual non-resident license. Licenses can be purchased through various channels, and anglers must adhere to the province’s fishing regulations. By understanding the license requirements and costs, anglers can enjoy a successful and legal fishing experience in Alberta’s beautiful waters.