If you plan to fish in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA) in 2024, it’s important to understand the fishing license requirements. The BWCA is a unique wilderness area that straddles the border between Minnesota and Ontario, Canada, and fishing regulations vary depending on which side of the border you are on.
Fishing Licenses for the BWCA (Minnesota Side)
On the Minnesota side of the BWCA, anyone 16 years of age or older who chooses to fish is required to have a valid fishing license. Fish eaten as part of shore lunch count towards daily fish possession limits.
Minnesota fishing licenses can be purchased online through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website, at most gas stations and bait shops across the state, or from outfitters like Williams and Hall Outfitters. Purchasing your fishing license in advance is recommended to avoid delays.
There are several types of Minnesota fishing licenses available for BWCA anglers, including:
Annual licenses for residents ($25) and non-residents ($51)
72-hour licenses for residents ($14) and non-residents ($36)
24-hour licenses for residents ($12) and non-residents ($14)
Youth licenses for ages 16-17 ($5 for both residents and non-residents)
In addition to the basic fishing license, anglers fishing in designated trout lakes within the BWCA must also purchase a trout stamp for $10.
Fishing Licenses for Quetico Provincial Park (Ontario Side)
If you plan to fish in Quetico Provincial Park, which is located on the Canadian side of the border, you will need an Ontario fishing license in addition to an Outdoors Card. The age requirement for a fishing license in Ontario is 18 years old.
Non-Canadian residents can purchase an Ontario Outdoors Card and fishing license online through the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources website. The recommended license for most anglers is the 8-day Conservation Fishing License Tag, which costs $29.40 Canadian.
It’s important to note that children under the age of 18 in Minnesota and 17 in Ontario can fish without a license when accompanied by a licensed adult, but any fish they keep count towards the adult’s possession limit.
Other Fishing Regulations and Tips
In addition to purchasing the appropriate fishing license, anglers in the BWCA and Quetico should be aware of other regulations and tips to ensure a successful and responsible fishing trip:
Live bait is allowed in the BWCA
Barbed hooks and lead tackle are allowed, but anglers may consider using barbless hooks and lead-free tackle to reduce environmental impact
Protect your eyes with polarized sunglasses
Keep mosquito repellent and plastic worms separate from your tackle to avoid softening paint on lures
Keep hooks sharp and learn to tie good knots to avoid losing fish
Use darker lures in darker water and lighter lures in clearer water for better contrast
In rivers, present your lure in a downstream manner to mimic natural food presentation
By understanding and following the fishing license requirements and regulations for the BWCA and Quetico, anglers can enjoy a safe and responsible fishing experience in these beautiful wilderness areas.