Ontario residents can fish without a licence this Family Day weekend, from February 14 to 16.
The free fishing period allows Canadian residents to cast a line without purchasing an Outdoors Card or fishing licence, according to the Ministry of Natural Resources.
“Family Day weekend is a perfect time for families to get outdoors and enjoy ice fishing here in Ontario,” said Mike Harris, Minister of Natural Resources. “Whether you’re a seasoned angler or it’s your first time ice fishing, take advantage of this opportunity to get out and make lasting memories with friends and family.”
Officials are reminding anglers to put safety first by checking local ice conditions before heading out. Clear blue ice is generally strongest, while white or honeycombed ice is weaker. People should also tell someone where they plan to fish and wear appropriate winter safety gear.
All conservation fishing licence catch and possession limits remain in effect during the free fishing period, along with sanctuary restrictions and other regulations.
Family Day weekend marks the first of four free fishing opportunities for Canadian residents this year. Other licence-free periods include:
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Mother’s Day weekend (May 9 to 10)
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Father’s Day weekend (June 20 to 21)
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Family Fishing Week (June 27 to July 5)
The province says recreational fishing contributes significantly to tourism and jobs across Ontario. About 1.3 million licensed anglers spend approximately $2.4 billion annually on the activity.
Canadian residents taking part in free fishing must carry government-issued identification showing their name and date of birth.
Outside designated free fishing periods, most Ontario residents aged 18 to 64 require an Outdoors Card and fishing licence. Veterans and active Canadian Armed Forces members residing in Ontario may fish for free year-round where permitted.
Fishing licences can be purchased online at HuntAndFishOntario.com or in person at participating ServiceOntario locations and authorized licence issuers.
