Fish for free

Four times a year, Canadian residents can fish in Ontario for free. This means you do not need to buy a fishing licence if you want to fish during:

  • Family Fishing Weekend (February 17–19, 2024)
  • Mother’s Day Weekend (May 11–12, 2024)
  • Father’s Day Weekend (June 15–16, 2024)
  • Family Fishing Week (June 29–July 7, 2024)

Follow fishing rules

Free fishing periods remind us of the value of Ontario’s recreational fishery, and the importance of keeping it healthy for future generations. While fishing you must:

  • follow conservation licence catch limits
  • obey size limits and sanctuaries
  • follow the fishing regulations
  • carry a permit or identification card issued by the provincial or federal government, showing your name and date of birth

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