Fishing Licence Requirements For Sturgeon

OK, so you are going fishing for sturgeon in the Fraser River and want to know what fishing licence or licences to purchase.  The short answer is that it depends.

You need a sturgeon conservation tag for sure.  But whether you get a fresh water or tidal license depends on where you are fishing.  West of the Mission River bridge is considered tidal water - so you would need a tidal licence.  If you are east of the Mission River Bridge, then you need a fresh water (non-tidal) licence.

If you are sturgeon fishing with Yves, then you will need a fresh water licence. 

ANGLING LICENCE OPTIONS

You have the choice of a 1 day, 8 day or annual license (April 1 - March 31).  The easiest way is to purchase the license online, but if you prefer, you can also purchase this license through many vendors throughout the province or over the counter at any Service BC office. Follow the link below to purchase your Freshwater Angling Licence

BC Freshwater Fishing License

In addition to needing to carry a Freshwater Angling Licence, you are also required to carry a Sturgeon Conservation Tag if you plan to fish sturgeon. These tags are also available as single day, eight day, or annual options, and are a strict requirement for Sturgeon fishing in the Fraser River watershed areas. These can be purchased at the following link:

BC Sturgeon Conservation Tag

YOUTH EXEMPTION

The province of British Columbia requires all anglers over the age of 16 to have an angling licence.  Children under 16 can fish without a licence if someone else has a licence.

As per the Government of BC Website, here are the under age rules:

From Youth Fishing Licences in BC

If you are under 16 and a resident of B.C.:

• you may sport fish without any licence or stamp;
• you do not need to be accompanied by a licence holder;
• you are entitled to your own quota of fish.

If you are under 16 and a non-resident of B.C.:

• you do not require any licence or stamp to sport fish, but you must be accompanied by a person (resident or non-resident) who has the appropriate licences and stamps;
• any fish you keep must be counted as part of the catch and possession of your accompanying licence holder;
• if you want to catch and keep your own quota of fish, you may buy a licence and any necessary supplementary licences and stamps.

STURGEON LIMITS

The limit is zero!!!  If you are fishing with a guide, you will be well aware of this.  All sturgeon is catch and release, meaning that you must be extremely careful and know how to safely handle these prehistoric fish. Failure to do so can result in large fines. Sturgeon are an ancient, endangered species, so we must all do our part to protect them. Also, if you are going on your own, know where and when you can fish for sturgeon.  While the sturgeon fishing season is year-round, some areas are not open for sturgeon for various reasons.

If you decide to go sturgeon fishing this season, make sure you prepare by having all the proper licences and tags in advance.  Know the rules and regulations. Then enjoy!