Winter Sportfishing Season Opens New Year’s Day

Anglers in the province or visiting can enjoy Nova Scotia’s 2020 winter fishing season, beginning Jan. 1.

“We encourage anglers to head to one of Nova Scotia’s open waterways in the new year to enjoy this popular activity that our province offers,” said Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Keith Colwell. “Always remember to keep safety in mind when fishing in the winter.”

Anglers should monitor weather conditions and dress in layers if venturing out during the winter fishery. When fishing through the ice, always check the ice thickness before starting. It’s also important to tell someone where you plan to go.

Freshwater lakes open for winter provide opportunity to fish for brook and rainbow trout, white and yellow perch and chain pickerel. The Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture stocks many lakes with trout each winter to ensure anglers enjoy a good sportfishing experience.

A general fishing licence is required however, anglers may take advantage of the annual winter sportfishing weekend Feb. 15-17 when residents and non-residents may fish without a licence in open winter sportfishing areas. This is also a chance to get out on Family Day and enjoy a sportfishing experience for the entire family.

Quick Facts:

• anglers may purchase a licence at Department of Lands and Forestry offices
• general fishing licences purchased in 2019 remain valid until March 31
• sportfishing in Nova Scotia annually generates about $62.5 million in revenue

Additional Resources:

The Nova Scotia Anglers’ Handbook is available online at https://novascotia.ca/fish/documents/Anglers-Handbook-2019.pdf . Information on winter fishing regulations and open lakes is on page 48.