Britush Columbia Fishing License

British Columbia Fishing License Guide – Tyee Tom’s Fishing Charters

Planning a fishing trip with Captain Tom Lundgren of Tyee Tom’s Fishing Charters in Port Renfrew? Before you cast your line, there’s one important step every guest needs to complete—obtaining your British Columbia tidal waters fishing license. This page will walk you through the simple process of getting licensed, explain the different license types, and answer the most common questions our guests have before they hit the water.

Why You Need a Fishing License in BC

In British Columbia, any individual fishing in saltwater (tidal waters) is required by law to hold a valid fishing license issued by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO). If you're planning to retain salmon, you must also purchase a Salmon Conservation Stamp, which helps support wild salmon enhancement and habitat restoration efforts across the province.

At Tyee Tom’s Fishing Charters, we make this process simple by guiding you through the steps before your trip. Although we do not issue licenses ourselves, we provide helpful reminders, links, and instructions to ensure every guest is compliant and ready for a great day of fishing.

How to Obtain Your BC Tidal Waters Fishing License

To purchase your license online, follow these steps:

1. Visit the official DFO licensing portal at www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/rec/licence-permis/index-eng.html.
2. Choose “Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Licence”.
3. Select the appropriate duration:

• 1 Day
• 3 Day
• 5 Day
• Annual (Valid April 1–March 31)

1. Add the Salmon Conservation Stamp if you plan to keep any salmon during your trip.
2. Complete your personal information exactly as it appears on your government-issued ID.
3. Print or download a digital copy of your license to bring on the boat.

Internal Prompt: Add “Fishing License Checklist” as downloadable PDF or link to “Trip Planning” page.

Important Tips from Captain Tom

• Be sure your license matches your name and birthdate on your ID. This is required for DFO compliance checks.
• Everyone over the age of 16 must hold a valid license, even if they do not plan to fish.
• Children under 16 do not need to pay for a license, but still need a printed license to be covered under DFO regulations.

Internal Prompt: Link to “What to Bring” and “Trips & Rates” pages for more travel prep.

Need Help? We’ve Got You Covered

Not sure what kind of license to get? Reach out to Captain Tom or our team at rich.lundgren@shaw.ca or call 250-732-1933. We’re happy to walk you through the process, especially if you’re booking a multi-day Port Renfrew fishing vacation or planning for multiple family members.

At Tyee Tom’s Fishing Charters, we aim to make your fishing experience seamless, fun, and completely worry-free. Taking a few minutes to grab your BC fishing license ensures you’re set for success—and legal—from the very first cast.