Impact Area

Conserving Fish Habitats

Conservation with "reel" impact.

Around the country, DUC’s work is giving native fish species a fin-up.

If you’re an angler, there’s nothing more relaxing than casting a line and anticipating that first bite. But the secret spots and favourite haunts frequented by fishers are facing increasing threats: pollution, invasive species, habitat loss and degradation.

Why wetlands matter for Canada’s fish

The shallow waters of Canada’s wetlands offer spawning, nursery and foraging habitats for many fish species. Wetlands also act as nature’s filtration system, improving water quality in lakes, rivers and streams.

Clean water means healthier fish, a healthier environment and better days on the water—for today’s anglers and future generations.

Wetlands: The secret to great fishing

They give fish places to grow, feed and spawn. But how much do you really know about how wetlands help keep fish abundant? Take this quiz to find out—and stay tuned for your chance to land a real catch from DUC.

Take the quiz

How Ducks Unlimited Canada’s conservation work supports fish

Ducks Unlimited Canada scientists and conservation specialists work to ensure vital wetlands can continue to support thriving fish populations, and the communities that depend on them for food and livelihoods.

Our work includes building innovative fishways that provide access to spawning grounds, helping restore wetlands and managing invasive species that threaten habitat.

Discover how we’re helping safeguard and improve habitats for our fish, and how this work benefits waterfowl, other wildlife and you!

Three people studying salmon at Woodward Breach in the Fraser River delta.

Our work to conserve and restore fish habitats

A big win for conservation and community in Ontario

The Lake Laurentian Restoration Project ensures the ecological health of the area, while supporting wildlife and fish habitat.

FRESH: Fraser River Estuary Salmon Habitat Restoration Projects

The Fraser River Estuary in B.C. supports an abundance of wildlife and plays a critical role in the life cycle of juvenile salmon.

Fish ladder research in Atlantic Canada

Fish depend on wetlands to spawn and in turn, provide essential nutrients that keep wetlands vibrant and healthy.

NEW sweepstakes now live!

Cast your line for a cause! The Hooked on Habitat sweepstakes is here from August 18-October 12, 2025, giving anglers the chance to win epic prizes while conserving the wetlands that keep our waters clean, fish thriving and outdoor spaces healthy.

Grand Prizes:

Plummer’s Arctic Lodges Four-Day Fishing Adventure for Four
TRACKER Super Guide™ Boat, Motor & Trailer
Princecraft Perfect Pond Package with Jon boat & Mercury outboard

Plus, get a chance to reel in Early Bird Prizes from YETI, Rapala, Berkley, Abu Garcia, Shakespeare, Garmin and Beretta—over $6,000 in gear!

Buy tickets

Open to residents of Canada only. For complete contest terms and conditions, including how to enter with or without a purchase, click here.

A Grandad teaches his grandson to fish at a lake while dad is watching.

Support our mission and recreational fishing

Help us conserve and restore wetlands and support the angling pursuits you enjoy today, and into the future.

Donate today

Stories about our work with fish and fish habitats

Biodiversity, Fish, Pacific Coast, Science, Water, Wetland restoration, Wetlands, Wildlife

Coming of age on the edge of the ocean: how moving sediment benefits juvenile salmon

Juvenile salmon need spaces to grow into the mature fish they will become; ready to take on the saltwater ocean, and eventually return to their freshwater spawning grounds. But these transitional spaces are challenging to find.

Fish, Wetlands, Wildlife

Fish and waterfowl flock to new habitat

We offer a turn-key approach to habitat restoration projects that are required as a condition for development project approvals; handling everything from finding the site, to project design, approvals negotiation, permitting, implementation and monitoring.

Fish, The Great Lakes & St. Lawrence, Wildlife

Floodgates open for fish along St. Lawrence River

This spring, migrating ducks made way for incoming fish on DUC wetland sites along the St. Lawrence River. But the fish didn’t want to be there.

Atlantic, Fish, Science, Wildlife

A homecoming for fish

After 200 years, conservation projects help native fish species make their way back into PEI waters

More ecosystems where we are making an impact

Our conservation efforts impact diverse areas across the entire country—including your community.

Stay Informed

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