Overview

Learn to Fish is a free program that teaches new anglers how to fish in Ontario. This fun and engaging 2–hour educational program combines a 1-hour practical teaching session on equipment use, fish species identification, safety and Ontario recreational fishing regulations with 1–hour of supervised hands-on fishing.

The program teaches how to:

  • rig, bait and cast a fishing line
  • identify and catch local fish species
  • get a fishing licence and follow fishing regulations
  • discover more about fishing in Ontario
  • fish safely and sustainably

We provide everything you need, including:

  • experienced instructors focused on fish, fun and safety
  • fishing rod, reel and bait
  • a fishing licence to take part in the Learn to Fish program
  • lifejacket and sunglasses

Who can join

Everyone aged 6 and up, including adults, teens and children. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Weather policy

Sessions run rain or shine, except in cases of extreme weather such as thunderstorms, heat warnings or high winds. If a session is cancelled, registered participants will be notified by email in advance.

What to bring

We encourage you to bring:

  • sunglasses
  • weather-appropriate clothing
  • sunscreen
  • water
  • payment for possible park access or parking fees
  • enthusiasm

Learn to Fish 2026

The Learn to Fish program has wrapped up for 2025. Thank you to all the individuals and families who participated. Check back in June for our 2026 location schedule and online registration.

Learn to Fish mobile unit

Our mobile unit travels to public events and locations across Ontario to introduce new anglers to recreational fishing.

Have an event you’d like us to attend? Note that we will begin taking requests in March for the 2026 program.

To submit a request for 2026, please contact us. 

A group of individuals across all ages in front of the learn to fish mobile unit

Learn to Fish digital

The digital Learn to Fish program helps you navigate this new world of fishing online. Follow along as we review all the basics of how to fish with videos, quizzes and other resources like our Learn to Fish Guide.

At the end of this digital experience, you will have the knowledge and confidence to fish on your own.

Follow us on social media @FishWildlifeON for more information.