Government of Yukon announces key changes for the 2025–26 hunting and fishing licensing year

March 31, 2025

The Government of Yukon is launching the 2025–26 hunting and fishing licensing year with important changes aimed at improving wildlife management, supporting conservation efforts and providing new opportunities for hunters across the territory.

New hunting opportunities for the 2025–26 licensing year:

• The number of deer permits will increase from 12 to 20. This includes two additional youth permits (for hunters aged 14 to 15), bringing the total to four permits for GMZ 1-15, 1-17 to 1-19, 1-21 to 1-72, 2, 3, 4 (except 4-03 and 4-51), 5, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11.
  • Adult permits will increase from 10 to 16, with the total number of regular permits split between two areas: 10 permits for Game Management Zones (GMZ) 5, 7, 8 and 9, and six permits for GMZ 1-15, 1-17, 1-19, 1-21 to 1-72, 2, 3, 4 (except 4-03 and 4-51), 10 and 11.
• The government is increasing the number of moose permit hunt authorizations (PHA) in the Fish Lake and Mount Lorne Moose Management Units (MMUs) in the Southern Lakes region from 7 to 15.
  • Fish Lake will have four new permits, excluding Game Management Subzones 718, 719 and 721, bringing the total to seven permits.
  • Mount Lorne will see four new permits, excluding Subzone 904, bringing the total to eight.
  • Permit numbers for the Wheaton River Moose Management Unit (MMU) remain unchanged at four PHAs. However, the allocated PHAs will now apply to Game Management Subzones 722, 728 and 729.
  • These additional moose permit opportunities are well within sustainable harvest guidelines. Ongoing population inventories will provide additional data to assess trends in the moose population and ensure sustainable hunting opportunities.

New conservation measures for the 2025–26 licensing year:

• The Braeburn elk hunt will be closed for the 2025–26 season to protect and support the recovery of the local elk population.
• Starting in 2026, the bison hunting season will be shortened by one week, closing on March 24. This change, recommended by the Aishihik Bison Technical Team, is designed to reduce pressure on pregnant cows and protect the bison herd during critical reproductive periods.
• In response to concerns raised by Champagne and Aishihik First Nations (CAFN), hunting grizzly bears will be prohibited within 100 metres of the centreline along the Haines Road corridor (from Gribbles Gulch to Unnamed Creek #1). This closure will apply to the east side of the road (Game Management Zone 7), where grizzly bear hunting was previously allowed, while the west side of the road (Game Management Zone 6) remains closed due to existing restrictions on grizzly bear hunting. This measure addresses ongoing concerns raised by CAFN Elders about Grizzly bear hunting in proximity to Klukshu, a traditional village
• Due to ongoing conservation concerns, the Kluane Wildlife Sanctuary sheep permit will not be offered for the 2025–26 season.
• To protect the lake trout population, new regulations are in place for Little Atlin Lake. Anglers may only harvest lake trout between 585 mm and 650 mm in length. A seasonal harvest closure (July 1 to November 30) will help protect the species during critical life cycle periods. Additionally, all anglers must use single-point barbless hooks to reduce harm to fish populations.

Upcoming lotteries:

• The Special Guide Licence (SGL) application period will run from April 1 to April 17.
• The Permit Hunt Authorization lottery will be open from April 17 to May 15.

The 2025–26 season brings exciting opportunities for hunters and anglers, while ensuring responsible management of the Yukon’s natural resources. Hunters and anglers are expected to review updated regulations and secure necessary permits and licences before heading out on the land. Responsible recreating and compliance help ensure the sustainability of the territory’s wildlife populations for years to come.

Our government is committed to the responsible and sustainable management of the Yukon’s wildlife resources, ensuring their health and abundance for future generations. These changes reflect our ongoing collaboration with communities, wildlife experts and stakeholders. By balancing conservation efforts with hunting and fishing opportunities, we are supporting both the vitality of our ecosystems and the needs and lifestyle of Yukoners.

Minister of Environment Nils Clarke

Quick facts

• The Government of Yukon closely monitors wildlife populations and implements regulations to protect species at risk and maintain healthy ecosystems. This includes setting harvest limits, regulating hunting methods and closing areas to hunting or fishing when necessary.
• All hunters and anglers in the Yukon must obtain the appropriate licences before engaging in hunting or fishing activities. Licences are available for purchase online, in person at Environment offices or through authorized vendors.
• Regulations may vary across different regions of the Yukon. Hunters and anglers must review the specific regulations for their intended areas before planning their activities.
• Bag limits are set each year to control the number of animals harvested and ensure sustainable populations. These limits vary by species and region.
• The Government of Yukon encourages all anglers to submit their burbot sport fishing catch reports for the 2025–26 season. Reports can be submitted online through eLicensing accounts. Accurate catch data helps manage wildlife and fisheries effectively and anglers are encouraged to contribute to conservation efforts.

Media contact

Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
laura.seeley@yukon.ca

Mara De La Rosa
Communications, Environment
867-456-5565
mara.delarosa@yukon.ca

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