Sportfishing
COVID-19 service change
As a result of COVID-19, there are changes to where you can buy a fishing licence.
Barrier-Free sportfishing opportunities
Use the new mapping tool to explore accessible sportfishing sites in Nova Scotia.
Project Supports Habitat Restoration for Salmon and Trout
A project to drop lime on the forest along the West River Sheet Harbour on the Eastern Shore will mitigate the effects of acid rain and support restoration of trout and wild Atlantic salmon habitat.
Nova Scotia's Learn To Fish Program
One of the department’s most popular activities is the interactive Learn to Fish (L2F) program. Learn to Fish teaches children the basics of sportfishing, along with ethics and environmental stewardship.
Nova Scotia Fishing Hatcheries
The Province has administered a hatchery program since 1982. Approximately 200 lakes are stocked each spring as part of our urban stocking program.
Fall Salmon fishing on the way
When the air becomes fresh and the leaves to turn a mosaic of colours, Atlantic salmon return to many rivers across Nova Scotia.
Economic Impact
The Sportfishing industry was worth more than $56.4 million in 2010 when licenced anglers spent 1.1 million days fishing. Approximately 80,000 anglers participated in sportfishing in 2014. Nova Scotia’s 6,700 lakes, 100 rivers and 7,400 kilometers of coastline offer incredible opportunities for angling enthusiasts
Buy your licence online
Barrier Free Fishing Sites
2020 Angler’s Handbook
Weekly Stocking update
Sportfish Funding Programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Catch & Release Techniques
