Canada · Spearfishing zone
British Columbia tidal waters (general, outside protected areas)
What this zone is
Overview
How spearfishing is treated at British Columbia tidal waters (general, outside protected areas).
Spearfishing by freediving or scuba is permitted in BC tidal waters for permitted species such as lingcod and rockfish (subject to area limits and size restrictions), but NOT for salmon, trout, char, sturgeon, octopus or shellfish other than shrimp. A federal Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Licence is required.
What applies here
Restrictions
Specific rules and limits that apply within this area.
No spearing of salmon, trout, char, sturgeon, octopus or non-shrimp shellfish; prohibited inside Rockfish Conservation Areas and many MPAs.
Source
This zone is documented in the official source below.
Before you dive
License for Canada
Whether you need a license to spearfish here, and how to get one.
Tidal licences via DFO National Recreational Licensing System or authorized access providers; freshwater licences via the relevant provincial agency.
Get your licenseOpens the official portal · pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca