Losing or accidentally destroying your BC fishing license can be a frustrating experience, especially if you’re eager to hit the water. However, don’t let this setback ruin your fishing plans. In British Columbia, you have a couple of options to reprint your lost or damaged license quickly and easily. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process step-by-step, so you can get back to enjoying your favorite fishing spots in no time.
Reprinting Your License Online
The most convenient way to reprint your BC fishing license is through the National Recreational Licensing System (NRLS) website. Here’s how to do it:
- Visit the NRLS website and log in to your account.
- Navigate to the “My Profile” page and click on the link “Reprint a Licence or Catch Card” or go to the “Reprint a Licence or Catch Card” page on the left-hand side.
- Select the license you need to reprint and follow the prompts to complete the process.
- Once you’ve successfully reprinted your license, you can either print it out or save it to your electronic device.
The best part? Reprinting your license online is completely free, and you can do it from the comfort of your own home.
Visiting an Independent Access Provider
If you prefer to have your license reprinted in person, you can visit an Independent Access Provider (IAP). IAPs are authorized retailers that sell fishing licenses and can also reprint lost or damaged licenses. Here’s how to find an IAP near you:
- Visit the Fisheries and Oceans Canada website and use their online tool to locate the nearest IAP.
- Contact the IAP and inquire about their license reprinting services.
- Visit the IAP with a valid form of identification and any information they may require.
- Pay any applicable fees and receive your reprinted license.
Keep in mind that some IAPs may charge a small fee for reprinting licenses, so it’s always a good idea to ask about their pricing before visiting.
Transferring Your Catch Records
If you were using your previous license to record your catch, you’ll need to transfer those records to your new license. Here’s how to do it:
- Review your previous license and note down any catch records you had recorded.
- If you reprinted your license online, log in to your NRLS account and record your catch using the “Record or View Your Catch” page.
- If you have a paper license, use a pen to neatly transfer your catch records from your previous license to your new one.
- Make sure your catch records are up to date and easily accessible in case a fishery officer or authorized fisheries guardian requests to see them.
Remember, it’s important to record your catch immediately, so if you’re fishing in an area without cell service, make sure to use your paper license to record your catch and transfer it to your NRLS account or reprinted license later.
Staying Compliant with Fishing Regulations
When you’re out fishing, it’s crucial to have your valid BC fishing license with you at all times. If a fishery officer or authorized fisheries guardian requests to see your license, you must immediately produce it for inspection, along with your catch records.
Failing to have a valid license or refusing to show it when requested is a violation of fishing regulations and can result in hefty fines. To avoid any issues, make sure to:
- Purchase your license before heading out to fish, either online or from an IAP.
- Carry your license with you while fishing or transporting your catch.
- Record your catch immediately on your license or in your NRLS account.
- Be prepared to show your license and catch records upon request by a fishery officer or authorized fisheries guardian.
By following these guidelines and staying compliant with fishing regulations, you can enjoy your fishing trips with peace of mind, knowing that you’re doing your part to support sustainable fishing practices in British Columbia.
In conclusion, reprinting your lost or damaged BC fishing license is a straightforward process that can be done online or in person at an IAP. Remember to transfer your catch records to your new license and always carry it with you while fishing. By staying compliant with fishing regulations, you can continue to enjoy the incredible fishing opportunities that British Columbia has to offer.