Quick Start Guide
For Freshwater Fishing in BC
Getting Started
With thousands of lakes and fishable streams, B.C. offers endless opportunities for you and your friends to have an amazing outdoor adventure. What are you waiting for? Scroll down and start planning your #gofishbc experience.
Step 1: Buy your fishing licence
If you are 16 years or older, you are required to have a freshwater fishing licence. Anglers can purchase an annual, eight-day, or one-day licence online or in-person at select locations.
BUY YOUR LICENCEStep 2: Check the freshwater fishing regulations
Be sure to check the Freshwater Fishing Regulations for daily catch limits and other requirements. Unsure where to start? Watch this video on how to use the regulations.
Step 3: Gather your fishing gear and head to the lake!
Check out the posts below for more information on essential fishing gear, how to set it up, and inspiration for where to go fishing. No gear? No problem! Loan tackle and rods for free from our Rod Loan locations. Want some hands-on instruction? Check out our Learn to Fish programs.
Beginner Tips
Some basic tips to get you started. Learn what equipment you need, and how to set it up.
Where to Fish
Find great places to fish all over B.C. using our interactive map or find inspiration in the blog posts below.
Identify Your Fish
Learn how to identify popular species targeted by recreational anglers. The Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC stocks trout, char and kokanee into B.C. lakes.
How to Fish
Learn fishing techniques for freshwater fishing.
Learn More
Looking for seasonal tips from the experts to improve your day on the water? Visit the Fishing Tips page
Need help finding a place to fish? Use the interactive map to discover new locations to cast your line.