Fish culling is essentially the act of keeping your catch alive in a stringer, live well, or holding device of some kind while you continue fishing.

The idea is that you could release it back into the water if you catch something more desirable, while staying within your catch limit.

There are confusions on this subject as to whether culling is outright banned, or only allowed within possession limits.

Let’s take a look at what the Alberta Fishing Regulations actually say.

Is it legal to cull fish in Alberta?

The wording of the Alberta Guide to Sportfishing Regulations explicitly says that it is illegal to cull fish beyond your possession limits. It also states that you should never cull fish.

While these two statements seem contradictory, they are not. Both are true.

Legally speaking, you absolutely must not cull any fish beyond your possession limits at any time. This is restricted everywhere in Alberta.

Ethically speaking, it is recommended that you do not take part in this practice as it is stressful and generally harmful to the fish. Fish held in these devices often experience damage to their gills, fins, and scales, leading to increased post-release mortality rates.

If you are within your legal catch and possession limits, you are technically within the law. However, it is the responsibility of all anglers to respect the wildlife and environment.

Source: Alberta Guide to Sportfishing Regulations

In Summary

• Culling is the act of keeping the fish alive in your possession and releasing it if you catch something more desirable
• Culling fish in Alberta is illegal if you do not remain within catch and possession limits.
• If you are within catch and possession limits, culling is technically legal, but very strongly discouraged
• Culling is harmful to the fish in a number of ways
• Further Reading: How to get an Alberta Fishing License