The Yukon government has just rolled out sweeping changes to its hunting and fishing regulations for the 2025–26 season, aiming to boost conservation efforts while expanding opportunities for hunters and anglers. These new rules, now officially in effect, impact permit allocations, seasonal restrictions, and ethical hunting practices across the territory.
Hunting Regulations: More Permits, Stricter Conservation Measures
Moose Hunting Expands in Key Areas – Hunting and Fishing Regulations
Hunters in Fish Lake and Mount Lorne will see permit numbers more than double, jumping from 7 to 15. This expansion comes as moose populations rebound, allowing for sustainable harvesting while maintaining ecological balance, adhering to broader hunting regulations.
Deer Hunting Sees a Permit Boost – Hunting and Fishing Regulations
The number of deer permits has increased from 12 to 20, including two additional youth permits. This move aims to encourage young hunters to engage in responsible wildlife management while also upholding the revised hunting and fishing regulations to ensure healthy deer populations.
Braeburn Elk Hunt Shut Down
In a major conservation effort, the Braeburn elk hunt is officially closed for the 2025–26 season. Wildlife experts say declining elk numbers and habitat changes prompted the shutdown, an action clearly outlined in the updated regulations to ensure population recovery.
Grizzly Bear Hunting Restricted
Hunters can no longer target grizzlies within 100 meters of the Haines Road corridor. This restriction follows concerns from Champagne and Aishihik First Nations, who pushed for stronger protections near Klukshu Village, a traditional fishing site. It’s part of the comprehensive changes in hunting and fishing regulations aimed at protecting cultural and ecological resources.
Fishing Regulations: New Limits & Seasonal Closures
Little Atlin Lake Trout Ban
Anglers must now avoid lake trout harvesting from July 1 to November 30. This seasonal closure, part of the fishing regulations, aims to protect fish populations during critical spawning periods.
Size Restrictions Tightened
Only lake trout measuring between 585mm and 650mm can be harvested. This new rule ensures larger, breeding fish remain in the ecosystem, supporting long-term sustainability and aligning with current regulations.
Barbless Hooks Now Mandatory
To reduce injury to fish, anglers must use single-point barbless hooks. This regulation, one of many updates in the hunting and fishing regulations, aligns with modern conservation practices, minimizing harm to released fish.
Why These Changes Matter
The Yukon government says these new rules strike a balance between preserving wildlife and supporting hunting traditions. First Nations leaders, conservationists, and outdoor enthusiasts played a key role in shaping these policies, ensuring respect for indigenous lands and species.
What’s Next?
Hunters and anglers must familiarize themselves with these new regulations to avoid penalties. Hunting and fishing regulations updates are crucial, so officials urge all outdoor enthusiasts to review the updated guidelines on the Government of Yukon’s official page.
Stay tuned for more updates as Yukon’s wildlife management strategy evolves!
