Nunavut Fishing Licence (2026)
Complete guide to Nunavut fishing licence costs in 2026. Learn about NLCA beneficiary exemptions, Arctic char fishing, and remote fishing opportunities.
Quick Answer
A Nunavut fishing licence costs $10.00 for residents. Canadian residents under 16 can fish without a licence when accompanied by a licensed adult. Purchase online at Nunavut Sport Fishing.
Overview
Nunavut offers the ultimate remote fishing experience in Canada's newest and largest territory. Arctic char is the premier species, with world-class fishing in pristine rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. NLCA (Nunavut Land Claims Agreement) beneficiaries are exempt from licensing. Most fishing is organized through licensed outfitters with fly-in access. New fishery regulations are under development with public engagement in 2025.
Licence Prices
Current prices for Nunavut fishing licences (April 1 to March 31).
| Licence Type | Nunavut Resident | Canadian Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|---|
| Season | $10.00 CAD | $20.00 CAD | $40.00 CAD |
| 3-Day | — | $15.00 CAD | $30.00 CAD |
Prices subject to 5% GST. NLCA beneficiaries are exempt from sport fishing licence requirements.
Age Exemptions
Youth (Under 16)
Canadian residents under 16 can fish without a licence when accompanied by a licensed adult.
Seniors (65+)
No specific senior exemptions in Nunavut. All non-NLCA anglers 16+ require a licence.
How to Get Your Nunavut Fishing Licence
Contact Local Office
Purchase licences at the local Department of Environment office in your destination community or through authorized outfitters.
Choose Duration
Select a season or 3-day licence. Season is recommended for extended trips.
Book with Outfitter
Most Nunavut fishing is organized through licensed outfitters who can arrange licences, guides, and logistics.
Know the Regulations
Check Nunavut-specific regulations including catch limits for Arctic char and lake trout. New Nunavut Fishery Regulations are under development (expected ~2028).
NLCA Beneficiary Exemption
Nunavut Land Claims Agreement (NLCA) beneficiaries are exempt from sport fishing licence requirements. This reflects the Inuit right to harvest wildlife for subsistence purposes as established in the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement of 1993. Non-beneficiaries (including other Canadian residents) must purchase a sport fishing licence.
New Fishery Regulations Under Development
New Nunavut Fishery Regulations are currently being developed. Public engagement began in March 2025, with external consultations running until November 2025. Regulatory drafting and analysis is expected from December 2025 to November 2026, with new regulations potentially coming into force around April 1, 2028. These new regulations aim to respect Inuit harvesting rights and enhance Indigenous-led fisheries management.
2026 Regulation Updates
- 2025/2026 Nunavut Sport Fishing Guide in effect.
- NLCA beneficiary exemptions continue.
- Updated Arctic char retention limits in select watersheds.
- New Nunavut Fishery Regulations under development (public engagement 2025, expected ~2028).
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Nunavut fishing licence cost?
A Nunavut resident season licence costs $10.00 plus GST. Canadian residents from other provinces pay $20.00, and non-residents pay $40.00.
Do Inuit need a Nunavut fishing licence?
No. NLCA (Nunavut Land Claims Agreement) beneficiaries are exempt from sport fishing licence requirements.
What fish can I catch in Nunavut?
Nunavut is famous for Arctic char (the premier target), lake trout, Arctic grayling, and northern pike. Sea-run Arctic char provide world-class fishing in coastal areas.
Do I need a guide to fish in Nunavut?
While not legally required, a guided experience through a licensed outfitter is strongly recommended. Nunavut is extremely remote with limited infrastructure, and outfitters handle logistics, safety, and local knowledge.
How do I get to fishing locations in Nunavut?
Most fishing destinations in Nunavut are accessible only by charter aircraft. Licensed outfitters organize fly-in trips from hub communities like Iqaluit, Rankin Inlet, and Cambridge Bay.