This year marks the 66th anniversary of the Master Angler Program, North America’s oldest running master angler initiative. To preserve this rich legacy and safeguard the health of Manitoba’s world-class fisheries, an updated set of rules, eligibility guidelines, photo requirements and a new Non-Compliance Policy will officially come into effect on Monday, June 29, 2026, at 12:00 AM (midnight) CST.
As digital media and angling technology evolve, these revisions are necessary to begin to address modern challenges (such as AI photo manipulation) and to ensure “fish-first” practices remain at the heart of the community.
Key Species Size Changes
In addition to the rule updates, please note that the qualifying minimum size requirements for three species will increase:
Black Crappie: 13” (formerly 12”)
Bullhead: 13” (formerly 12”)
Channel Catfish: 35” (formerly 34”)
Where to Find More Information:
1. Full Rules & Policy: You can review the complete, updated regulations and the new Non-Compliance Policy right now on the Master Angler program website.
2. Live Updates & Examples: To help anglers transition to the new rules, the Hunt Fish Manitoba team will be active on social media all next week (June 29 – July 3). Tune in for detailed breakdowns, visual examples of the new requirements and Q&A opportunities.
Instagram: @huntfishmanitoba
Facebook: Fish & Hunt Manitoba
Thank you for your continued dedication to keeping Manitoba a premier, responsible angling destination!
