Fisheries engagements

Status: Ongoing
Who is listening: Ministry of Forestry and Parks
Ministry of Environment and Protected Areas

Overview

Alberta’s waters are home to a diversity of fish that offer healthy food and outdoor experiences for Indigenous peoples and recreational users.

In Alberta, there are a variety of fishing opportunities to meet the needs of a diversity of anglers. Fisheries are managed with the needs of multiple stakeholders in mind, starting with Indigenous Peoples, recreational fishers and even some competitive fishing events.

Albertans are engaged and contribute to the management of fisheries in the various fishing regions of the province. In some cases where fish populations are depleted or at high risk to sustainability, a recovery objective is set with appropriate actions, possibly even temporary fishing closures.

The Alberta government is committed to open dialogue on fisheries management through the use of science-based information and involving Albertans in fisheries management decisions.

Active engagements

There are no active engagements at this time

Benefits of fisheries

Alberta’s fisheries offer benefits for all Albertans to enjoy. These include:

biodiversity and ecosystem health
cultural and natural history
a source of food
social and recreational enjoyment
economic benefits through annual sales of fishing licences, gear and other related purchases by anglers interested in angling adventure in our waters

Learn about how we manage fish populations in Alberta

Native trout

Native trout populations across the east slopes of Alberta have experienced severe declines in population size and distribution. The Government of Alberta is focused on ensuring progress is made towards recovering these species by addressing key threats on the ground.

Learn about the programs and opportunities to protect native species.

Habitat

Albertans share responsibility to ensure aquatic habitats can support healthy fish populations. Reducing our impact on waters and shorelines by not damaging or polluting these areas and leaving nothing behind helps keep them healthy habitats for fish.

Learn about the actions to take while recreating outdoors.

Fishing opportunities

Anglers can support successful fisheries management by following fishing rules and avoiding unintentional harm to fish. If you are interested in fishing in Alberta, learn more about:

Alberta’s fisheries and fishing opportunities, regulations, fishing licenses, and best practices at My Wild Alberta.
catch and keep information and a guidance on consumption of fish at Should I Eat This Fish

Outcomes so far

We are grateful to all those who have provided feedback through surveys, meetings and open houses, and ongoing efforts with us. Learn more about previous fisheries management engagements: