Licence-free family fishing
Dates that Canadian residents can fish in Ontario without a licence, and information about Family Fishing Week and Weekend.
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
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.
Urban fishing
Even city folks can fish. You’ll find fishing sites in many urban areas.