Northwest Territories Fishing Regulations
Not legal advice. Compiled from official government summaries. Regulations change each year — always check the official source before relying.
General Rules (barbless hooks are the #1 cause of fines)
- ⚠ Only barbless hooks are permitted for angling in the Northwest Territories.
- ⚠ Live fish may not be used as bait. Gaffs prohibited. Snagging prohibited.
Species Limits
| Species | Limit | Size / Season |
|---|---|---|
| Arctic Char | DCL 4 / possession 7 | |
| Arctic Grayling | DCL 3 / possession 5 | |
| Bull Trout | DCL 2 / possession 3 (species at risk) | |
| Dolly Varden | DCL 4 / possession 7 | |
| Lake Trout | DCL 3 / possession 5 | |
| Northern Pike | DCL 3 / possession 5 | |
| Walleye | DCL 5 / possession 10 | |
| Burbot | DCL 5 / possession 10 | |
| Inconnu | DCL 5 / possession 10 | |
| Lake Whitefish | DCL 5 / possession 10 | |
| Goldeye | DCL 5 / possession 10 | |
| Rainbow Trout | DCL 1 / possession 2 | |
| Suckers | No limit |
Seasons
Daily Catch Limits and Possession Limits chart in the official guide; Great Bear Lake + ISR special management areas.
Licence Fees
NWT angling licence required; Special Management Area validations for Great Bear Lake / ISR.
Edition: Sport Fishing Regulations Guide · Effective: Apr 1, 2026 - Mar 31, 2027 · Source: NWT Sport Fishing Regulations Guide (gov.nt.ca)
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