New Brunswick weighs new powers to limit U.S. hunting and fishing licences
New Brunswick is reviewing legislation that could let the province deny hunting and fishing licences to Americans amid a trade dispute.
In response to new U.S. tariffs, New Brunswick’s government is considering a legislative review that could allow the minister of natural resources to refuse hunting, fishing and mining licences to non-residents based on certain criteria. Premier Susan Holt said the province aims to reduce reliance on American markets for government contracts and is exploring additional measures against U.S. licence holders. Outfitters such as Larry Adair and Debbie Norton expressed concern that restricting American licences would severely impact their businesses, which depend heavily on U.S. customers.
Non-resident licence fees are already markedly higher, with black-bear licences costing about four times more than resident rates. The province has not yet decided on any concrete restrictions, and officials have not responded to media inquiries for clarification.
