Manitoba's 100,000 lakes cover approximately 17% or 101,600 km2 of its surface area. In addition, rivers, streams and marshes are home to important fish habitat. Healthy fish habitat provides sustainable benefits to sport, commercial and domestic users throughout the province.

Over the past decade, mechanisms and processes have been put into place to prevent further loss of healthy fish habitat. In addition, Manitoba is focusing on enhancing and/or rehabilitating areas with lost or degraded habitat.

One such program, the "Manitoba Fisheries Enhancement Initiative" has contributed funding for the enhancement, restoration and creation of fish habitat in Manitoba. Under this program, revenue generated through a portion of sport and commercial licence sales is used to fund such projects including: Lake Aeration, Fish Passage, Rearing and Spawning Enhancement, Stream Rehabilitation, Population Management and Education, Information and Promotion Materials.

Manitoba preserves these fishing traditions through conservation practices and the support of anglers from around the world. Over the last 20 years,cameras and tape measures have become a regular part of every angler's tackle. A quick set of measurements and the click of the camera are proof of the battles won. Using fishing resources with care and respect will guarantee world-class angling adventures for years to come.