Fishing and Hunting and Outfitters

A criminal record or conviction, such as a DUI, will generally bar you from entering Canada unless a temporary waiver, called a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP), can be obtained at the border (or consulate).

According to the Canadian Tourism Commission, over 32 million adult Americans go fishing in Canada each year and just over 9 million go hunting. In 2010, Americans dropped $4.8 billion into the Canadian economy for fishing or hunting, or supporting jobs for outfitters, guides, transportation, boating and retail goods.

Interestingly, the Canadian Tourism Commission reports a steady decline of US-resident fishing and hunting trips, which have dropped by half in just a decade. The report sadly fails to mention that border enforcement and admissibility are the prime culprits. Americans and other outdoor enthusiasts are taking their business elsewhere when denied entry due to that DUI conviction from “back in the day.”

Entry for fishing and hunting is sometimes possible if you have a criminal record, particularly if more than ten years have elapsed since completing your sentence, or if you intend to spend a significant amount of money in Canada over a small period of time. However, the onus is on you to show paperwork about your criminal disposition or itinerary and dollar spend to seek entry.

If you or an accompanying family member has a criminal record, contact our firm to determine if you are likely to be allowed to enter Canada for your hunting or fishing activity.

To download our Admissibility Brochure designed for Hunters and Fishing Enthusiasts, click here.