Children under 18 can fish without a license under supervision in Quebec. Rules for families, students aged 18-24, spouses, catch limits and tips for a successful outing.
Family fishing is one of the best ways to introduce children to the outdoors in Quebec — and the good news is that license rules are very accessible for kids. This guide explains clearly who needs a license, what an adult's license covers, and how to plan a successful outing with the whole family. See the full details in our Quebec fishing license guide.
Key takeaway — A child under 18 can generally fish without a license in Quebec, as long as they are under the supervision of an adult who holds a valid license. There is no single "family license": each adult must have their own. Note that fish kept by the group count toward the license holder's limit.
Does a child need a license?
No, in the vast majority of cases. In Quebec, a child under 18 can fish without a sport fishing license, as long as they fish under the supervision of an adult who holds a valid license. That is what makes family fishing so simple and affordable: you buy one adult license and your children can cast their lines beside you.
This rule applies to regular sport fishing — walleye, trout, pike, bass and more. Atlantic salmon remains an exception that follows its own rules and requires a separate permit.
Students aged 18 to 24: an exception to know
From age 18, a license normally becomes mandatory. However, some students aged 18 to 24 can still benefit from an adult's license under certain conditions, provided they show a valid student card and fish in the holder's presence. It is a useful exception for families whose young adults are still studying. Because the exact terms change, always check the current conditions on the official portal before your outing.
The most important point: the group's catch limit
Here is what too many families forget. When a child (or an eligible student) fishes under an adult's license, all fish kept by the group count toward the license holder's daily limit and possession limit.
In other words: if the walleye limit is 6 in your area, that number of 6 applies to the entire group covered by your license — not 6 per child. Once the holder's limit is reached, everyone must switch to catch-and-release. It is an essential conservation rule, and one that wildlife protection officers check regularly.
Is there a "family license"?
No. There is no single family license in Quebec. Each adult 18 and older must buy and sign their own license. The "family logic" comes from the fact that children don't need one: a couple with two children, for example, needs only the two adult licenses.
What about a spouse?
For regular sport fishing, a holder's spouse may, depending on current conditions, benefit from the holder's license when fishing in their presence — much like children. This lets a couple share a single license in certain situations. Be careful, though: this flexibility does not apply the same way to Atlantic salmon fishing, which requires each angler to hold their own salmon permit. Check the exact conditions before you go, as they can change from season to season.
Making your family outing a success
A few simple tips make all the difference with kids:
- Choose a spot full of small, easy-to-catch fish (perch, sunfish): the action keeps young ones motivated. See our best spots to fish as a family near Montreal.
- Short outings: two or three hours is often plenty for the little ones.
- Safety first: personal flotation device, hat, sunscreen, water and snacks.
- Suitable gear: a light rod and barbless hooks make releasing easier.
- Explain the rules: show children sizes and limits — a great conservation lesson.
- Celebrate every catch, big or small: fun matters more than quantity.
Ready for the outing?
Before you leave, get your license online and check the limits specific to your fishing zone. With a licensed adult and curious kids, you have everything you need to make great memories by the water.
