Families in Stanley, Manitoba, can enjoy a weekend of ice fishing without paying for a licence from February 14 to February 16, 2026. This province-wide event, organized by Manitoba Natural Resources, allows both locals and visitors to try the sport for free during the long weekend.
Local families can head to nearby Lake Minnewasta to catch fish like walleye, crappie, and northern pike. While a fishing licence is not required this weekend, people must still follow all other rules found in the Manitoba Anglers’ Guide. For example, at Lake Minnewasta, you can only keep four walleye and they must each be longer than 35 centimetres.
In addition to the free fishing, vehicle permits are not needed to enter provincial parks until April 30, 2026. It is important to remember that a federal fishing licence is still required if you plan to fish in any national parks.
Safety officials recommend that people check the ice thickness before walking or driving on it. According to ice safety guidelines, there should be at least 10 centimetres of clear ice for walking and 20 centimetres for snowmobiles or all-terrain vehicles.
