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Most of the barb wire is in place because they don't want their cattle to exit the land. I'll respectfully jump barb wire every day if it's in a road allowance, as that's owned by the Province. Also, the rec access website is quite helpful to determine who to talk to, as mentioned above, it does make a difference if you just knock and say hello.

No permission needed as long as you stay below high water. You will encounter many landowners who will try and intimidate you, but as long as you stay below high water you are good. This can be difficult sometimes to navigate some of these fencing quagmires. I have had several landowners try and intimidate me and tell me I wasn't allowed to fish and was trespassing. Twice a quick call to fish and wildlife and have them come out if they're reasonably close, settled the matter. Once I had to wait for about an hour, would have been easier to go to a different access point, but it was the principle. Don't cut their fences and try to be courteous as possible, but don't let ranchers intimidate you from fishing. Sometimes it really is a grazing thing too, though. That being said, especially in southern Alberta, sometimes a quick knock on the door and chat with a landowner can give you some unbelievably great access. I have had multiple landowners grant permission to not only cross their land, but allow me to drive in on their private trails and even been permitted to camp. Mutual respect thing right. Same with hunting access. They understand the guy who actually puts in the effort to ask permission, is respectful, and will be respectful, follows the rules - instead of just going where he pleases. Worst they can say is no, you won't be shot. If access is granted, follow up with a tim's card, a bottle, a christmas card, any gesture, and I guarantee you will have access for life. Bottom line, don't let any of the fence-the-fishermen-out fences along bridges keep you out.