Who counts as a resident?
- Your primary home is in Manitoba, and you have lived there for at least 6 consecutive months of the 12 months before applying. This is the 2023 Wildlife Act wording; confirm it in the current Manitoba Hunting Guide.
- If you don't qualify yet, you may be a "Canadian resident" (citizen, permanent resident, or 6 months living in Canada) and can buy that class of licence.
Residency rules change and have exceptions (military, RCMP, students, diplomats). Confirm with the provincial or territorial licensing office before buying a resident licence. Applying for one you aren't entitled to is an offence.
Courses you need
- The Manitoba Hunter Education course (online or classroom) is required for first-time hunters and anyone born on or after January 1, 1951. It's open to ages 12+.
- Gun hunters also need a PAL: pass the federal Canadian Firearms Safety Course, then apply to the RCMP Canadian Firearms Program. Processing takes weeks. Bow hunters don't need one.
Buying your licence
- Buy online through Manitoba e-Licensing (manitobaelicensing.ca), at a participating vendor, or by phone at 1-877-880-1203.
- Draws for moose, elk and other species open around May 1.
Good to know in Manitoba
- Manitoba's hunting zones are called Game Hunting Areas (GHAs).
- Seasons and bag limits by zone: Manitoba hunting regulations.
- The full step-by-step path: Hunting in Canada: a newcomer's guide.
How TrueNorthHunter helps
- Your zone, by GPS: see which hunting zone you're in, even offline.
- Seasons and rules for that zone, taken from the official regulations.
- Public land layers such as Crown land, parks and closures, plus community sightings and daily hunting forecasts.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to live in Manitoba before I can hunt as a resident?
Your primary home is in Manitoba, and you have lived there for at least 6 consecutive months of the 12 months before applying. This is the 2023 Wildlife Act wording; confirm it in the current Manitoba Hunting Guide.
Can I hunt before I qualify as a resident?
Often, yes, on a non-resident licence. It costs more and may be limited to small game or require a licensed guide. Check the province or territory's non-resident rules.