(Today’s Northumberland file photo)
Fish for free across Ontario on June 20 and 21
This Father’s Day weekend, Ontario is inviting families to reel in some fun and enjoy the outdoors together for free. On June 20 and 21, Canadian residents can fish in Ontario without purchasing a licence or Outdoors Card.
“Some of the best memories are made out on the water,” said Mike Harris, Minister of Natural Resources. “Father’s Day weekend is a great chance to cast a line for the first time, or rediscover the joy of it, while getting out to enjoy Ontario’s beautiful outdoors.”
Recreational fishing is a key part of Ontario’s economy, supporting local tourism and jobs in communities across the province. Free fishing opportunities like Father’s Day weekend provide a chance for people to learn more about fishing on Ontario’s lakes and rivers.
If you are fishing for free during the Father’s Day weekend, all conservation licence catch and size limits, fishing sanctuaries and other fishing regulations still apply.
Quick Facts
- This weekend marks the third of four free-fishing periods in Ontario this year. The remaining dates are during Family Fishing Week (June 27–July 5).
- For beginners, Ontario offers loans of rods and reels for free through the TackleShare program, in‑person Learn to Fish programs as well as an online Learn to Fish Guide to help new anglers get started.
- 1.16 million anglers spend $2.4 billion per year on recreational fishing in Ontario.
- Canadian residents participating in free fishing periods must carry identification issued by the provincial or federal government, showing their name and date of birth.
- Outside of free fishing periods, most people between the ages of 18 and 64 must have an Outdoors Card and a licence to fish. All veterans and active Canadian Armed Forces members residing in Ontario can enjoy free recreational fishing in the province, whenever and wherever fishing is allowed.
- Ontario fishing licences can be purchased online at HuntAndFishOntario.com. If buying online, always look for the Ontario logo. Licences can also be purchased in person at participating ServiceOntario or authorized licence issuer locations.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
