BC Fishing Regulations: What You Need to Know Before Your Next Trip

Planning a bucket-list trip to The West Coast Fishing Club in Haida Gwaii? Before you pack your bags and head for the island, there are a few things you should keep in mind - your licenses, required stamps, and quick review of catch limits and area rules. Getting these sorted early means a stress-free check-in and more time on the water! 

Your Must-Have Licence (and Where to get It) 

If you’ll be fishing in tidal (saltwater) waters, which you are at WCFC, you must carry a valid British Columbia Tidal Sport Fishing Licence. This is a federal licence issued by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO). You can purchase it online through DFO’s licensing portal, and you should have a printed copy of your licence with you whenever you’re fishing. 

Who Needs One? 

All anglers in tidal waters require a licence, including minors (though fees and conditions can differ by age and resident status). Always carry it and be prepared to present it to a fishery officer upon request. 

When to Buy & How Long It Lasts 

Licence “seasons” in the Pacific Region roll over on April 1 of each year. When you purchase your licence, you can choose durations (eg., 1- day, 3-day, 5-day, or annual) based on your itinerary. WCFC commonly recommends the 5-day or Annual option, depending on how much time you’ll spend fishing across the season. 

The Salmon Conservation Stamp (Don’t Forget This) 

If You Want to Retain Any Salmon, You Need this Stamp 

Even with a valid tidal licence, you cannot retain salmon unless your licence includes a current Salmon Conservation Stamp. This applies to all recreational fishers in tidal waters, regardless of age or residency. The stamp aligns with the licence year (April 1 to March 31) and can be added when you buy your license or afterward via your account. 

Catch Limits & Restrictions 

Knowing the permitted daily and possession limits is crucial. These vary by species, region, and sometimes by season. 

Salmon - Daily & Trip Limits 

• Possession limit per trip: 8 salmon (total) 
• Chinook: Max 2 per person per day; up to 4 total per trip 
• Coho, Sockeye, Chum, Pink (combined): Max 4 per person per day; total trip possession limit of 8 

Make sure to check for area-specific restrictions: some zones impose stricter Chinook or even zero retention during conservation periods. 

Halibut Limits 

• As of April 1, 2025, the possession limit is 1 halibut per trip, head on length not exceeding 102cm.

Rockfish, Lingcod & Other FinFish 

• Lingcod: In many areas, the limit is 3 fish per day, with possession up to 3. 
• Rockfish (all species combined): Commonly a daily limit of 2, possession limit of 4. 
  
  • Only one of those may be sensitive species like China rockfish or Quillback. 
  • Some species (e.g. Yelloweye rockfish) are often under zero retention rules depending on the zone. 

Size limits may apply (e.g. minimum lengths, or only keeping fish in certain size ranges).

Why Fishing with WCFC Is a Better Choice 

Pre-Planning, Licensing, & Regulation Support 

Because WCFC has decades of experience, we know exactly how to guide you through the licensing and regulatory requirements. Our pre-trip guides minimize confusion and risk at check-in 

Local Knowledge 

Our guides live and fish in these waters; they know exact boundaries, conservation zones, and daily rule updates. Whether you choose a guided fishing trip, or a self-guided adventure, our guides will be available to assist you throughout your trip, providing you with safety training, orientations, and necessary equipment. 

All-inclusive Lodging and Processing 

When you finish with us at WCFC, your catch is vacuum packed and flash frozen for you. Our lodging is also luxurious, with your choice between The Outpost or The Clubhouse, gourmet meals, and quality equipment. 

Read more about The Outpost and The Clubhouse here! 

Conservation and Sustainable Practices 

At WCFC, we place importance on conservation: encouraging catch-and-release, closely following catch quotas, engaging in local salmon enhancement projects, and partnering with local communities.  We advise all anglers to release all Tyee chinook, which are those weighing in over 30 pounds. To further that commitment, we recognize guests who release trophy Chinook Salmon of 40 pounds or more with a choice of an Arc’teryx jacket or an MR 3 Islander Reel. To qualify, you may retain other Chinook during your stay but must keep at least one open Chinook spot on your licence for the entire trip, and a WCFC guide must verify the fish and its measurement before release.

Self-Guided Days at WCFC (If Applicable) 

At WCFC, we offer exceptional guided fishing; some guests also choose self-guided sessions. In that case, make sure you arrive with either a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) or complete the Rental Boat Safety Checklist on site. Our Fishmaster and dock team will cover safety briefings, boat orientations, and fishing tips to ensure you have a safe and successful day on the water. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Do I need the Salmon Conservation Stamp? 

Yes, if you tend to keep any Pacific salmon. Without the stamp on your tidal licence, you cannot legally retain any salmon. 

When is the best time to fish in Haida Gwaii?

Each month offers a unique experience, with June to September being the recommended for the best Salmon fishing. 

I am bringing my child on the trip. Do they need a fishing licence too?

Yes. All anglers, including children, must hold a valid tidal waters sport fishing licence. If they plan to retain salmon, they also need a Salmon Conservation Stamp. 

What’s included in a WCFC lodge trip?

Airfare from Vancouver to the lodge, fishing gear, guiding, dining and host bar are all included in the trip. 

Do I need fishing experience?

No! West Coast Fishing Club’s guided trips are designed for all experience levels, from beginners to seasoned anglers. 

Can I keep the fish I catch?

Absolutely! Staff will take care of cleaning, packaging, vacuum packing, and flash freezing of your fish for taking home. 

Are kids allowed at the lodges?

Children are recommended to be 12 years and older but may depend on your situation. It’s best to contact a Client Services Representative. 

What’s the best way to book?

Contact our Client Services Team to check availability, explore package options, and personalized recommendations. We’ll guide you through every detail!