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BWCA Licenses & Permits – Boundary Waters Canoe Trips in Ely, Minnesota

Planning a Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) trip requires securing the correct permits and licenses before you enter the wilderness. At Packsack Canoe Trips, whether you're receiving complete or Partial outfitting, we help paddlers understand the BWCA permit system, timelines, and licensing requirements so your trip begins smoothly and legally. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning paddler, this page explains what you need to know before entering the BWCA.

Two young paddlers standing next to a Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness trail headsign

Understanding the BWCA Permit Process

All overnight trips into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness require a BWCA entry permit issued by the U.S. Forest Service. Permits are tied to a specific entry point and date, and availability is limited to protect the wilderness experience. Because permits can fill quickly, especially for popular summer dates, advance planning is strongly recommended.

BWCA permits are released through the national reservation system recreation.gov each year, typically beginning at the end of January. Once your permit is reserved, it must be issued in person before entering the wilderness.

Our Role as an Official BWCA Permit Issuer

We are a Cooperator with the USDA Forest Service under the Superior National Forest. We issue permits into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW).

This business operates within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in the Superior National Forest.

As a Cooperator with the Forest Service, we are an equal opportunity service provider.

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As an authorized BWCA permit issuing station, Packsack Canoe Trips can issue your reserved permit and review regulations, entry details, and Leave No Trace expectations before you depart. While we cannot guarantee permit availability, we work closely with paddlers to help them understand the system and plan responsibly.

When and How to Secure Your BWCA Entry Permit

We recommend beginning your BWCA trip planning well before mid-January, especially for groups with specific entry points or travel dates. Entry permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis through the national reservation system recreation.gov, and popular routes may sell out quickly. Groups with Nonprofit outfitting are allowed up to 3 permits under 1 group leader. Contact us today to explain the process.

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Once reserved, permits must be issued in person within the designated timeframe before your entry date. Packsack Canoe Trips can issue permits for paddlers entering from western BWCA access points near Ely, Minnesota.

Permit Fees (Subject to Change)

  • BWCA Reservation Fee: $6.00 per permit (non-refundable)

  • Adult Permit Fee: $16.00 per adult (per trip)

  • Youth Permit Fee: $8.00 per youth (per trip)

  • Issuing Fee: $2.00

Permit fees are set by the U.S. Forest Service and are subject to change.

Minnesota Fishing Licenses for Boundary Waters Canoe Trips

Anyone fishing in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) must carry a valid Minnesota fishing license. Licenses are required for both residents and nonresidents and must be valid for the dates you plan to fish during your trip.

Fishing licenses are issued by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and can be purchased online in advance or locally before your trip.

Minnesota Resident Fishing License Options

Minnesota residents have several fishing license options depending on age, household status, and length of stay.

Resident Fishing License Options:

  • Individual Resident License – Valid for one person

  • Married Resident License – Covers married spouses living at the same address

  • Family Resident License – Covers parents and dependent children living at the same address

  • Youth License – Required for anglers age 16 and older

  • Senior License – Discounted options available for qualifying ages

Resident licenses are valid for one year unless otherwise noted.

Minnesota Nonresident Fishing License Options

Nonresidents must purchase a Minnesota nonresident fishing license. These licenses are available in several duration options to accommodate short BWCA trips or extended stays.

Nonresident Fishing License Options:

  • 24-Hour Nonresident License

  • 72-Hour Nonresident License

  • 7-Day Nonresident License

  • Annual Nonresident License

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Minnesota Fishing Licenses for Boundary Waters Canoe Trips

We strongly recommend purchasing fishing licenses and stamps before arriving in Ely, especially during peak summer months.

As part of our planning support, we can:

  • Help you understand which fishing license is right for your group

  • Sell you your fishing license

  • Explain which stamps apply to your route and target species

  • Ensure your paperwork matches your BWCA entry dates

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