Licence-free family fishing

Fish without a licence

Four times a year, Canadian residents can fish in Ontario without buying a fishing licence, during:

• Family Fishing Weekend in February (February 13-15, 2021)
• Mother’s Day Weekend in May (May 8-9, 2021)
• Father’s Day Weekend in June (June 19-20, 2021)
• Family Fishing Week in July (July 3-11, 2021)

Follow fishing rules

Licence-free periods remind us of the value of Ontario’s recreational fishery, and the importance of keeping it healthy for future generations. You must:

• follow conservation licence catch limits
• obey size limits and sanctuaries
• follow the fishing regulations

Ontario Fishing Regulations Summary

Use Fish ON-Line

Free loans for rods and reels

TackleShare loans out rods and reels for free. New anglers can gear up at locations across the province including:

• Ontario provincial parks
• conservation authorities
• libraries

TackleShare is an Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters program supported by Ontario Power Generation.

Learn to Fish Guide

Rules on using fishing tackle

Urban fishing

Even city folks can fish. You’ll find fishing sites in many urban areas.

Learn more about urban fishing