If your fly-in destination is in Manitoba or Saskatchewan, you must adhere to strict barbless hook regulations. In Manitoba, it is mandatory to use barbless hooks across the entire province. This rule is designed to facilitate quick, healthy releases and minimize injury to the fish, which is essential for maintaining the high catch rates found in remote northern lakes. Saskatchewan also has barbless requirements for many of its northern waters and specific species like Lake Trout.

Anglers don't necessarily need to buy all new tackle; you can easily convert your favorite lures, like a Mepps spinner, by using a pair of pliers to crimp the barbs down flat against the shank of the hook. A hook is considered barbless if the barb has been compressed so that it no longer functional. Not only is this the law in many areas, but it's also a best practice for catch and release fishing everywhere. It makes unhooking a thrashing Northern Pike much safer for both the fish and the angler, especially when you are miles away from the nearest medical facility.