Domestic fishing is fishing for food by Treaty Indian persons and by individuals who legitimately require access to the fisheries resource to meet basic subsistence requirements.

Domestic fishing has long been an important
activity to First Nations peoples. Fish have,
and continue to be a valuable source of food.
Fishing also plays an important role in bringing
people together socially including the celebration
of religious and cultural traditions.



Constitutional Rights


Treaties were signed in the late 1800s and early 1900s between Canada and First Nations representatives. These treaties protected, among other things, the right of Status Indians to fish for food during any time of the year.

In Manitoba, fish stock conservation to ensure resource sustainability, is the first priority for making management decisions. Following this, domestic fishing for food by First Nations peoples is given the highest priority for harvest of the fishery resource. These rights are protected under Canada's Constitution.