The provincial government has released the 2026 edition of the Alberta Guide to Sportfishing Regulations, which outlines new rules for anglers across the province, including those in Chestermere, Alberta. These updated regulations are now in effect and will remain active until March 31, 2027.
For those planning to fish at Chestermere Lake, the local rules remain consistent with previous years. The lake, which is managed under the Parkland-Prairie zone, will be open for fishing from May 8, 2026, until March 15, 2027. Anglers may use bait throughout the season and are permitted to keep a catch limit of three Northern Pike, provided they are over 63 cm in length, and 15 Yellow Perch.
While local rules for Chestermere Lake remain unchanged, the province has implemented significant updates to the Walleye Special Harvest Licence program. Starting April 28, 2026, at 9:00 AM, these licences will be available for direct, first-come, first-served purchase through the AlbertaRELM website or through approved licence issuers. This change moves away from the previous application and draw system, and any previously accumulated priority points were discontinued on March 31, 2026.
Before heading out, residents should ensure they hold a valid sportfishing licence. An annual licence for those aged 16 to 64 costs $30.00, while youth under 16 and seniors 65 and older do not require a licence. All recreational anglers must have an active Wildlife Identification Number, which requires a one-time activation fee of $12.00 (plus GST). Additionally, families looking to fish together can take advantage of upcoming family fishing weekends, scheduled for July 11-12, 2026, and February 13-15, 2027, when no licence is required to fish in open waters.
Anglers are reminded to follow all local regulations and help protect the environment. If you witness any fishing violations, you can contact the Report-A-Poacher hotline at 1-800-642-3800 or dial #3800 on a Telus mobile phone. Proceeds from provincial fishing licences continue to support the Alberta Conservation Association to help fund local conservation efforts.
