Last Updated: March 2026 | Category: Hunting
Planning your hunting season in Manitoba requires staying current with the 2026 Manitoba Hunting Regulations. These guidelines cover everything from licensing requirements to season dates, ensuring you hunt legally and ethically while contributing to the province’s exceptional wildlife heritage.
Whether you’re pursuing white-tailed deer, moose, black bear, waterfowl, or upland birds, understanding the latest updates helps you make the most of your time in Manitoba’s world-class hunting terrain — from the prairie potholes of the south to the boreal wilderness of the north.
The official Manitoba Hunting Guide and the provincial Manitoba Natural Resources and Northern Development website provide complete details on season changes, tag allocations, and reporting requirements. This guide breaks down the key regulation changes, big game hunting information, and answers to common questions for Manitoba hunters in 2026.
What’s New for the 2026 Manitoba Hunting Season
Key Changes and Proposals to Watch in 2026 Manitoba Hunting Regulations
The 2026 Manitoba Hunting Regulations and the upcoming regulatory cycle bring several important updates and active proposals hunters need to know about:
Proposed Tundra Swan and Mourning Dove Seasons
The most talked-about development for Manitoba hunters is a federal proposal by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) to establish brand-new hunting seasons for tundra swans and mourning doves in the Prairie provinces. If approved, these seasons would represent entirely new hunting opportunities in Manitoba:
- Up to 400 tundra swan permits per year could be issued to Manitoba hunters — permits currently allocated to American hunters would be repatriated to Canada
- A daily limit of 15 mourning doves with a 45-bird possession limit is proposed, consistent with 40 U.S. states where dove hunting is already permitted
- The earliest possible implementation date for either season would be fall 2028
- Public consultation is currently underway — comments can be sent to MbregsReports-Rapports-Omregs@ec.gc.ca
Note: A coalition of Manitoba wildlife experts and hunters has raised concerns about the swan proposal, citing the difficulty of distinguishing tundra swans from the similar-looking trumpeter swan during a hunt. These seasons are not yet approved; hunters should monitor updates from Manitoba Natural Resources and Northern Development and ECCC.
Dark Goose Bag Limit Change in Game Hunting Area 38 – 2026 Manitoba Hunting Regulations
- Proposed reduction of the dark goose daily bag limit in GHA 38 (around Winnipeg) from 12 birds to 8 birds, bringing it in line with the rest of Manitoba. Previous liberalization did not result in increased harvest rates, and huntable land in the near-urban area continues to decline.
Non-Resident Afternoon Goose Hunting Restriction Lifted – 2026 Manitoba Hunting Regulations
- A proposed change would remove the afternoon hunting restriction for non-Canadian resident dark goose hunters during the early season, allowing all-day hunting consistent with rules for all other migratory species. This change aims to simplify regulations and expand opportunities for visiting hunters.
Woodcock Season Updates (Zones 3 & 4)
- Proposed alignment of the woodcock season opening with upland game birds to September 1 (previously September 8)
- Non-resident bag limit proposed to increase to 8 per day / 24 in possession to match the resident limit
Non-Resident Hunter Restrictions Remain in Effect
- Manitoba’s restrictions on foreign resident migratory game bird hunters introduced in recent years remain in place for 2026. Non-Canadian residents must review the current rules on the Manitoba Waterfowl and Migratory Game Bird Hunting webpage before purchasing licenses.
Essential 2026 Hunting License Requirements
Who Needs a License – 2026 Manitoba Hunting Regulations
Under the Manitoba Hunting Regulations, all hunters must hold a valid hunting license before pursuing any game. Licenses are required for all big game and most game bird hunting. To purchase a license:
- Online at Manitoba eLicensing
- At a participating retailer across the province
- By calling the Help Desk at 1-877-880-1203
Hunters must be at least 12 years of age. If born after January 1, 1951, you must have passed a qualifying Hunter Education Course before your first license can be issued.
First-Time Hunters: Complete the Manitoba Hunter Education Program before applying for your first license. The course covers firearm safety, wildlife identification, ethics, and regulations under The Wildlife Act, C.C.S.M. c. W130. Exemptions may apply to hunters who held a license before January 4, 1975 — contact Manitoba Natural Resources and Northern Development for the declaration form process (allow 6–8 weeks).
License Types and Approximate Fees (2026)
| License/Species | Resident | Non-Resident (Canadian) | Non-Resident (Foreign) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big Game License | ~$28 | ~$70 | ~$215 |
| White-tailed Deer (general) | ~$40 | ~$130 | ~$350 |
| Moose (draw tag) | ~$50 | ~$150 | ~$520 |
| Black Bear | ~$40 | ~$130 | ~$350 |
| Wild Turkey | ~$25 | ~$65 | ~$165 |
| Migratory Game Bird (all birds) | ~$34 | ~$100 | ~$155 |
| Federal MGBH Permit + Stamp | $17 | $17 | $17 |
Fees are approximate; verify current rates at Manitoba eLicensing before purchasing.
Big Game Hunting in the 2026 Manitoba Hunting Regulations
The Manitoba Hunting Regulations provide robust big game opportunities across the province, from white-tailed deer in the south to moose and caribou in the boreal north.
White-tailed Deer
White-tailed deer hunting is one of Manitoba’s most popular hunting pursuits, with excellent populations across agricultural and forested areas of the province.
2025–2026 Season Overview:
- Archery Season: September 1 – October 15
- Rifle/Muzzle-loader Season: October 10 – December 15 (varies by Game Hunting Area)
- Muzzle loader-specific Season: Select GHAs offer dedicated muzzle-loader opportunities in October (e.g., approximately October 18 for 3 weeks in some outfitter areas)
- Rifle Season (late): Approximately November 8 for 3 weeks in some outfitter zones
License Requirements:
- A general white-tailed deer license covers one antlered or antler-less deer in most GHAs
- Second and third deer licenses are available in select high-density areas
- A white-tailed deer and game bird combination license (youth) is available
- Game tags must be cut and attached to the animal immediately after harvest
Rural Municipality of MacDonald: Manitoba residents may hunt white-tailed deer on privately owned land in the RM of MacDonald under a general, second, or third white-tailed deer license — a notable exception to standard GHA-based restrictions.
Moose
Manitoba’s moose hunting is managed through a draw-only tag system, ensuring sustainable population management across the province’s diverse boreal and transition zones.
Season Dates (2025–2026):
- Archery: September 15 – October 31
- Rifle: October 10 – 31 (varies by GHA)
Tag Types and Draw Process:
- Bull tags (antlered moose), cow/calf tags, and calf-only tags are available depending on the GHA
- Apply through Manitoba eLicensing — draw deadlines vary by area and are published in the annual Hunting Guide
- Non-resident caribou hunters must book through a registered outfitter and be accompanied by a licensed Manitoba guide (max 3 hunters per guide)
Black Bear
Manitoba offers both spring and fall black bear seasons, making it one of Canada’s top bear hunting destinations.
2025–2026 Season Dates:
- Spring Season: May 1 – June 19
- Fall Season: August 15 – October 31 (some outfitter areas note approximately August 30 – October 11)
Key Rules:
- Baiting is permitted with proper registration
- No hunting of cubs or females with cubs
- Trail camera regulations apply; verify current rules in the Hunting Guide
- Harvested bear parts must remain with the hide until registration
- Mandatory reporting required within the required time-frame after harvest
Wolf and Coyote: A wolf or coyote may be taken during any big game season under the authority of a Manitoba resident big game license. A wolf may only be taken during fall bear season if the hunter holds an unused bear tag — and the wolf must be taken before the bear. Wolf and coyote hunting is covered by the standard big game license at no additional cost.
Elk and Caribou
- Elk: Draw-based system in select northern and western GHAs; check the current Hunting Guide for open areas and tag availability
- Woodland Caribou: Available in specific northern GHAs; non-residents must book through a licensed Manitoba outfitter and use a registered guide
Migratory Bird Hunting: 2026 Manitoba Hunting Regulations Updates
The Manitoba Hunting Regulations for migratory birds apply alongside federal rules — both sets of requirements must be met before heading afield.
Federal Permit Requirements
All migratory bird hunting in Manitoba requires federal documentation in addition to provincial licenses:
- Migratory Game Bird Hunting (MGBH) Permit – $17.00 (federal)
- Canadian Wildlife Habitat Conservation Stamp – Included with permit
Purchase your electronic permit at the federal permit portal. The 2025 federal permit remains valid for the 2026 spring special conservation harvest for Snow Geese, Ross’s Geese, and Canada Geese.
Manitoba also requires spring Snow Goose, Ross’s Goose, and Canada Goose hunters to obtain a free provincial electronic license through Manitoba eLicensing.
Manitoba’s Four Game Bird Hunting Zones – 2026 Manitoba Hunting Regulations
| Zone | Area Description |
|---|---|
| Zone 1 | Northern Manitoba north of latitude 57°N, and the portion east of longitude 94°W north of latitude 56°N |
| Zone 2 | Between Zone 1 and the line at latitude 53°N west to the Saskatchewan border |
| Zone 3 | Between Zone 2 and Zone 4 |
| Zone 4 | Southern agricultural region — GHAs 22–38A including the Winnipeg area |
2026 Bag Limits at a Glance – 2026 Manitoba Hunting Regulations
| Species | Daily Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Ducks (most species) | 8 | 24 |
| Canada/Dark Geese (most areas) | 5 (GHA 38: proposed 8→5) | 15 |
| Light Geese (Snow/Ross’s) | 20 | 80 |
| Sandhill Crane | 5 | 10 |
| Snipe | 10 | 20 |
| Woodcock (Zones 3 & 4) | 8 | 24 |
Spring Conservation Goose Season: The 2025 federal permit is also valid for the 2026 spring Snow Goose and Canada Goose conservation season. Manitoba’s free provincial spring conservation license is required in addition to the federal permit.
Non-Toxic Shot Requirements
Critical Regulation: In Manitoba, the use and possession of lead shot is prohibited while hunting migratory game birds, with the exception of woodcock. Within National Wildlife Areas that allow hunting, lead shot is prohibited for all hunting, including upland game birds.
Approved Non-Toxic Shot Types: Steel, bismuth, tungsten-bronze, tungsten-iron, and tungsten-polymer. Violations carry serious penalties including fines and equipment seizure.
Upland Game Birds – 2026 Manitoba Hunting Regulations
Manitoba’s upland bird hunting is among the most diverse in Canada, and the Manitoba Hunting Regulations set seasons running from September through January in most areas.
| Species | Season (Approx.) | Daily Bag | Possession |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ruffed Grouse | Sept. 1 – Jan. 31 | 5 | 15 |
| Sharp-tailed Grouse | Sept. 1 – Jan. 31 | 5 | 15 |
| Spruce Grouse | Sept. 1 – Jan. 31 | 5 | 15 |
| Gray Partridge | Sept. – Jan. (Zone 4) | 8 | 24 |
| Ring-necked Pheasant | Oct. – Jan. (select GHAs) | 2 males | 6 males |
| Wild Turkey | Spring: Apr–May; Fall: Oct | 1 per license | 2/year |
Wild turkey hunting requires a separate Manitoba resident wild turkey license or wild turkey youth license. Turkeys are available in specific GHAs — check the current Hunting Guide for open areas. A “male turkey” is defined as one with a visible beard.
Waterfowler Heritage Days: Manitoba offers special “Heritage Days” where licensed participants may hunt certain game birds without a standard game bird license during designated periods. Details are published annually in the Hunting Guide and the General Hunting Regulation.
Game Hunting Areas and Season Planning – 2026 Manitoba Hunting Regulations
Understanding Manitoba’s GHA System
Manitoba is divided into numbered Game Hunting Areas (GHAs), each with specific season dates, bag limits, and species restrictions under the Manitoba Hunting Regulations. Your hunting plans must be based on the GHA you intend to hunt — regulations can vary significantly from one area to the next.
Regional Highlights for 2026:
Northern Manitoba (GHAs 1–21):
- Prime moose and caribou territory with remote access opportunities
- Longer big game seasons in select areas
- Non-residents hunting caribou must book with a licensed outfitter
- Boreal forest provides outstanding grouse and black bear habitat
Central Manitoba (GHAs 22–30):
- Transition zone with strong whitetail, bear, and waterfowl hunting
- Mix of Crown land and private agricultural land
- Manitoba’s famed duck factory — prairie potholes draw world-class waterfowl numbers
Southern Manitoba (GHAs 31–38A):
- Highest deer densities, particularly in agricultural areas
- Zone 4 is Manitoba’s premier waterfowl zone
- GHA 38 (Winnipeg area) sees proposed dark goose bag limit reduction from 12 to 8 birds
- Pheasant hunting available in select GHAs
Restricted Hunting Areas
Certain areas carry special restrictions:
- The Rocky Lake Restricted Hunting Area (portions of GHA 5) prohibits hunting of several species
- Lands reserved for Wapusk National Park require written authority from the park superintendent before hunting
- The Rural Municipality of Rosser and RM of MacDonald have specific migratory bird rules — check the General Hunting Regulation for current details
General Hunting Rules and Safety Requirements – 2026 Manitoba Hunting Regulations
The following safety and conduct rules are core to the Manitoba Hunting Regulations and apply across all species and Game Hunting Areas.
Core Safety Requirements
Firearm and Transport Rules:
- Firearms must be unloaded when in or on a vehicle
- Comply with the Canadian Firearms Act for storage and transport
- Night hunting is restricted — legal shooting hours are from one half-hour before sunrise to one half-hour after sunset for most species
- Non-Canadian resident dark goose hunters currently restricted to morning-only shooting (sunrise to noon) in southern Manitoba during early season — proposed to change for future seasons
Tagging Harvested Game:
- Immediately after taking or killing any big game animal or wild turkey, cut out and remove the spaces on the game tag to indicate the correct date
- Securely attach the game tag to the animal — you may delay attachment only if you remain in continuous physical possession of the animal until it reaches a means of transportation
Private Land:
- Always obtain permission before hunting on private property
- Written permission is strongly recommended
- Respect fences, crops, and livestock at all times
Reporting Harvested Game
Manitoba requires mandatory reporting for big game harvests. Reporting is completed through the provincial e Licensing system. Even if you were unsuccessful, check whether a “no harvest” report is required for your species and GHA. Failure to report can affect future license eligibility.
To report violations, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) — calls are anonymous and you may be eligible for a reward. Manitoba Conservation Officers enforce The Wildlife Act and may request to inspect your licenses, tags, and harvested game at any time.
Equipment and Firearms Requirements – 2026 Manitoba Hunting Regulations
Legal Firearms by Species
- White-tailed Deer/Moose: Rifles, shotguns with slugs, muzzle loaders (where season is open for each weapon type)
- Black Bear: Rifles, shotguns, muzzle loaders — minimum calibre requirements apply
- Waterfowl: Shotguns only (plugged to 3 shells); non-toxic shot mandatory
- Upland Birds: Shotguns; .22 rim fire rifles may be permitted for some species — verify by GHA
Archery and Crossbow
- Minimum draw weight for big game archery: 18 kg (approximately 39.7 lbs)
- Broad-heads must meet minimum width requirements — verify in the current Hunting Guide
- Compound, re-curve, and longbow all permitted during archery seasons
- Crossbow regulations vary by season and species — confirm before heading afield
Frequently Asked Questions – 2026 Manitoba Hunting Regulations
When do seasons open under the 2026 Manitoba Hunting Regulations?
Season dates vary by Game Hunting Area and species. Archery deer typically opens September 1, with firearms seasons running October through December. Moose archery begins around September 15. Waterfowl seasons start in early September for teal and late September for regular duck and goose seasons. Always confirm exact dates in the official Manitoba Hunting Guide.
Do I need a provincial license AND a federal permit to hunt waterfowl?
Yes. Migratory bird hunting in Manitoba requires both a provincial game bird hunting license AND the federal Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permit ($17). For spring goose seasons, a free provincial electronic conservation license is also required. All three documents must be in your possession while hunting.
What are the proposed tundra swan and mourning dove seasons about?
Environment and Climate Change Canada has proposed new hunting seasons for tundra swans (up to 400 annual permits in Manitoba) and mourning doves (daily limit of 15) across the Prairie provinces. These are still in the public consultation phase — no final decision has been made. The earliest possible start date would be fall 2028. Hunters who want to comment on the proposal can email ECCC at MbregsReports-Rapports-Omregs@ec.gc.ca.
Are there restrictions on non-Canadian resident hunters?
Yes. Manitoba introduced restrictions on foreign resident migratory game bird hunters in recent years, which remain in effect for 2026. Additionally, in southern Manitoba (Zone 4 and nearby GHAs), non-resident Canadian hunters are currently restricted to morning-only dark goose hunting (half hour before sunrise until noon) during the early part of the season, though this restriction is proposed for removal in a future regulatory amendment. Non-resident caribou hunters must book through a licensed outfitter and use a registered Manitoba guide.
How do I apply for a moose draw tag in Manitoba?
Moose tags are allocated through an annual draw system. Apply through Manitoba e Licensing before the published deadline for your target GHA. Draw results are announced in advance of the season. Tags are specific to the GHA and dates indicated on your license.
Can I use lead shot for any hunting in Manitoba?
Lead shot is prohibited for all migratory game bird hunting in Manitoba except woodcock. Within National Wildlife Areas that allow hunting, lead shot is prohibited for all hunting, including upland birds. Non-toxic alternatives such as steel, bismuth, or tungsten loads must be used. Verify shell requirements for your species before heading out.
Is guide service required for big game hunting in Manitoba?
Non-resident foreign hunters pursuing caribou are required to book through a registered outfitter and be accompanied by a licensed Manitoba guide. Non-resident foreign hunters pursuing black bear, white-tailed deer, moose, wolf, coyote, and migratory game birds are not required to book through a licensed outfitter. Resident hunters are never required to use a guide for any species.
What happens if I fail to report a mandatory harvest?
Failure to report required harvests can result in fines, suspension of hunting privileges, and ineligibility to purchase licenses in future years. Set a reminder for your specific reporting deadlines as published in the Hunting Guide to avoid penalties.
Planning Your 2026 Manitoba Hunt
Staying on top of the Manitoba Hunting Regulations before each season is the single most important step to a safe, legal, and rewarding hunt. Use the checklist below to prepare.
Essential Pre-Season Checklist
8–12 Weeks Before Season:
- Check current Hunting Guide for GHA-specific season dates and bag limits
- Apply for moose, deer draw, or other controlled hunt tags by published deadlines
- Purchase provincial licenses and federal migratory bird permit
- Obtain free provincial spring goose conservation license if applicable
- Scout hunting areas and secure landowner permission for private land
4–6 Weeks Before:
- Confirm draw results and validate tags
- Arrange accommodations, guides, or outfitter services if required
- Sight in firearms; practice archery equipment
- Review GHA-specific restrictions and weapon season dates
1 Week Before:
- Check weather forecasts and plan for Manitoba’s variable fall conditions
- Pack essential safety gear including hunter orange
- Download offline maps of your hunting area
- Inform a trusted contact of your hunting plans and expected return
Where to Find Official Information
- Manitoba Hunting Guide (PDF) — Manitoba Natural Resources and Northern Development
- Manitoba eLicensing — Purchase licenses and report harvests
- Federal Migratory Bird Regulations – Manitoba Summary
- Federal Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permit
- Manitoba Wildlife Federation – Regulations
Contact Information:
- Manitoba eLicensing Help Desk: 1-877-880-1203
- Report Violations (anonymous): Crime Stoppers 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)
- Manitoba Natural Resources and Northern Development: gov.mb.ca/nrnd
Last Updated: March 2026
For the most current information, always refer to the official Manitoba Hunting Regulations as published by Manitoba Natural Resources and Northern Development and the federal Migratory Birds Regulations summary. Regulations can change, and it’s every hunter’s responsibility to verify current rules before heading into the field.
Good luck and safe hunting in Manitoba in 2026!
