Before you head out for salmon off Departure Bay, trout at Westwood or Long Lake, or crabbing near Protection Island, you’ll need the right license. The fastest way is online through BC’s e-Licensing system—done in minutes, digital copy on your phone.

🎣 Buy Your Fishing License Online Now

License Types: Tidal vs. Freshwater

Tidal (saltwater) licenses (federal/DFO) cover ocean fishing for species like salmon, halibut, and shellfish. Freshwater licenses (provincial/BC) cover lakes and rivers. Depending on species and what you keep, you may need conservation surcharges (e.g., salmon stamp for tidal, or lake/steelhead surcharges for freshwater).

Basics: BC residents under 16 don’t need a freshwater license; non-residents under 16 must be accompanied by a licensed adult unless they buy their own to keep a personal quota. Some exemptions apply for eligible First Nations for non-tidal fishing. Always check official sources.

Where to Buy (In Person or Online)

Prefer in person? Freshwater licenses are available at government offices and authorized vendors:

• FrontCounter BC

• Service BC

• Authorized vendors

Fastest option: buy online via the secure e-Licensing portal (1-day, 8-day, or annual). You can add required stamps during checkout and carry a digital copy.

Fees & Regulations

Fees vary by residency and duration. As a 2025 example, a BC resident annual freshwater license is about $41.15; short-term, non-resident, and senior/accessible rates differ. Tidal license fees and the salmon conservation stamp are federal and separate. Regulations (seasons, size limits, quotas) change—always review the latest before you go.Official pages: BC Freshwater Licence · DFO Tidal Licence

Nanaimo Tips

Use a tidal license for the Strait of Georgia, Departure Bay, and toward Gabriola; keeping salmon requires the federal salmon stamp. Use a freshwater license for Westwood Lake, Long Lake, and area rivers—check for any conservation surcharges. Confirm open seasons, size limits, and daily/possession quotas before you fish.

Get Set Up

Need help picking rods, reels, tackle, or safety gear for local conditions? Our Nanaimo team can help in store, or browse essentials:

Rods Reels Tackle Marine Safety

🎣 Buy Your Fishing License Online Now

Regulations, eligibility, and fees can change. For the most accurate details, consult the official BC Freshwater e-Licensing and DFO Tidal Licensing pages.