Your Ontario fishing questions answered

Ontario fishing licence and regulations

Is a licence required to fish in Ontario?

Yes, for the most part. Almost everyone who chooses to fish in Ontario will require a valid Ontario fishing license, with a few exceptions.

Canadian residents between 18 and 65 need a fishing licence to fish in Ontario, whereas residents under 18 and over 65 do not.

All non-residents over the age of 18 also require a licence.

If you are part of an Indigenous community with Aboriginal or treaty fishing rights in Ontario, you may fish without a licence within your traditional or treaty area for food, social, or ceremonial purposes, provided you carry community identification. If you fish outside your traditional or treaty area, you will need an Outdoors Card, a fishing licence, or permission from the local First Nation.

Persons with a disability requiring assistance to fish, as defined by the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, may fish without an Outdoors Card or fishing licence if they carry a government-issued ID. Their assistant only needs a licence if they choose to fish.

In addition, Ontario residents who are active members or veterans of the Canadian Armed Forces can use their service card or service documentation as a valid license.

What kinds of fishing licences are there, and which should I buy?

Fishing licences are categorized into two categories: sport fishing and conservation licenses.

The province of Ontario is broken down into 20 fisheries management zones (FMZs). FMZs help the province manage the individual needs and nature of each zone by customizing catch limits and seasons.

A sport fishing licence allows anglers to keep a maximum number of fish based on the specific zone and species. Purchase the sport fishing licence if you want full catch and possession fishing privileges.

A conservation licence has a limit to the number of fish retained and possessed by an angler based on the angling zone and species. Get a conservation licence if you intend to live-release (catch and release) the majority of fish caught.

Get your licence at local bait shops or Service Ontario locations. Another option is to purchase it online at the Fish and Wildlife Licensing Service.

When can I fish for free in Ontario?

There are four occasions in the year when Canadian and Ontario residents are permitted to fish without a license.

The free family fishing dates are:

• Family Fishing Weekend (February 14–16, 2026)
• Mother’s Day Weekend (May 9–10, 2026)
• Father’s Day Weekend (June 20–21, 2026)
• Ontario Family Fishing Week (June 27–July 5, 2026)

What is the penalty for fishing without a licence in Ontario?

Anglers, residents and non-residents in Ontario who fail to produce a licence when asked by a conservation officer face a fine of $155.

Conservation officers may also seize angling gear if it is connected to the offence.

Can an angler fish with two lines in Ontario?

The Ontario Fishing Regulations note that, as a general rule, anglers fishing from a boat are permitted to fish with two lines in the open waters of the Great Lakes in Ontario. Exceptions apply near harbours, river mouths and other areas.

Double-check the Ontario Fishing Regulations Summary. The rules for the number of lines depend on the specific fishery management zone you are in, and exceptions change.

A fishing line must not have more than four hooks attached. Up to three lines are permitted for anglers fishing for common carp in fish management zones 12 through 20.

Fishing hours and seasons

Is fishing at night permitted in Ontario?

Yes, generally, anglers are permitted to fish at night in most bodies of water in Ontario. However, certain water bodies have night-fishing restrictions. This information is available within the Ontario Fishing Regulations, in the fisheries management zone section. Find up-to-date rules and details in the specific zone you intend to fish.

In addition, some municipalities enforce bylaws regarding night fishing. As these by-laws are regulated by municipalities, specific enquiries are best addressed to the relevant municipality.

What are the fish seasons in Ontario?

Ontario is divided into zones, each with a specific fishing season.

Fish seasons include opening and closing dates and specific restrictions on the fish species available during each date in each zone.

It is illegal to attempt to catch fish if the season is closed, even if you’re planning to release them. Unless stated otherwise, species that are not listed, such as Rock Bass, have a year-round open season for angling.

What should I do if a fish is caught out of season?

A fish caught out of season should be immediately released back into the water.

If fish are caught outside their fishing season, are of a prohibited size, or exceed the catch or possession limit, they are illegal to keep. In these cases, you must release it at the place and time of capture. This includes fish that may be injured during catch.

Note that taking a photo of a fish caught unlawfully or illegally is also not permitted.

This rule does not apply to invasive species, which should be destroyed and not released back into any waters.

Fish species and bait

What are invasive species?

Plants, fish and invertebrates not native to Ontario are considered invasive species. These flora and fauna can cause irreparable damage to Ontario’s ecosystems.

If an invasive species, such as a round goby, is caught, it must not be released back into the environment.

In addition, when anglers are moving from one body of water to another, make sure to clean all gear, boats and trailers to avoid transporting invasive species.

What is a sport fish?

A sport fish is any species of fish prized for the sport of the catch, rather than its value as a food source.

Sport fish species in Ontario include walleye (pickerel), trout, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, perch, crappie, whitefish, northern pike, muskellunge and salmon.

Can an angler fish with bait in Ontario?

Yes, you can use bait like earthworms, minnows, crayfish and mealworms.

But there are some important rules to consider. Ontario is divided into four bait management zones to stop the spread of invasive species. You must get your bait in the same zone where you plan to fish, and any unused bait, along with the water or material it was kept in, must be thrown away at least 30 meters from the water.

Keep the receipt for your bait as proof you followed the rules. It’s against the law to transport live or dead baitfish or leeches across zone borders.

Can an angler catch and use their own bait?

Yes, anglers are permitted to catch and use their own approved bait species of minnow, frog, leeches and crayfish, provided they are obtained from the bait management zone in which they reside.

Non-resident anglers are not permitted to bring bait of any kind into Ontario and must purchase or obtain bait from the bait management zone intended for angling.

There are regulations on the number of minnows, leeches, frogs and crayfish allowed per angler.

Can an angler use a sport fish as bait?

No, anglers must use only baitfish permitted in the bait management zone where they are fishing. No baitfish other than those approved can be used for bait.

Is it safe to eat the fish I catch in Ontario?

Consult the Guide to Eating Ontario Fish to learn about which fish species you can eat. This publication lists fish species and water bodies, along with the recommended safe monthly consumption levels. Some fish can contain toxins from both natural and human-made sources.

Types of fishing trips

Where can I take my family on a fishing trip in Ontario?

Family fishing trips in Ontario are a fantastic way to create unforgettable memories together. With over 250,000 lakes and hundreds of kilometres of rivers, there’s no shortage of opportunities for new or experienced anglers to enjoy.

Explore family-friendly fishing lodges across the province and discover beginner-friendly tips and resources to make your adventure fun and easy for everyone.

What kind of fishing trips are offered in Ontario?

In Ontario, lodges and outfitters offer a range of service levels, from guided day trips to multi-day fishing vacations, with all-inclusive experiences, outpost locations and basic cabins and cottages. In addition, the province is home to excellent fly fishing rivers and lodges, as well as ice fishing experiences. Popular types of trips include:

A guided fishing trip

Hiring a fishing guide or charter to spend a day on the water is an excellent and easy way to get out on the water.

Most guides will provide everything you need for a day of fishing. They will work hard to ensure your family or friends have the best possible time on the water, allowing everyone the chance to catch fish.

A do-it-yourself outpost fishing camp

One of the most rewarding fishing adventures in Ontario is an outpost camp adventure. Anglers are delivered by boat, float plane, train or vehicle to a cabin on a lake or river.

Outpost camps provide the basics for your stay, so you will need to bring your tackle and equipment, food and drink, bedding and any other personal items needed for a few days or a week away.

Most outpost camps provide exclusive access to a private lake, and guests are free to fish on their own schedule. Discover some of Ontario’s top remote fly-in fishing lodges.

Housekeeping fishing outfitter

Lodges and outfitters referred to as housekeeping are very similar to DIY outpost camps; however, they generally have lodge and outfitter managers on-site.

With a housekeeping plan, you’ll be cooking for yourselves and have full freedom of schedule. Many housekeeping outfitters do supply bedding and guide services.

The benefit of a housekeeping lodge is that anglers can set their schedules and eat what they choose to bring on the adventure. Browse a selection of budget-friendly Ontario housekeeping fishing resorts.

American plan fishing outfitter

American plan lodges and outfitters are close to an all-inclusive experience, where almost everything you need is provided.

These lodges will often have guides on-site, supply three meals per day and include housekeeping services. These adventures are designed to be worry-free and responsibility-free, focusing on fishing and other recreational pursuits. Find the best luxury fishing lodge for your next fishing trip.

More fishing resources

Where can I learn more about fishing in Ontario?

The best resource to learn about fishing opportunities in Ontario is Ontario’s Fishing Regulations Summary.

Fish-Online is a mobile fishing tool with maps and information on fishing in Ontario.

You can use Fish ON-Line to plan your fishing trip, check fishing regulations and learn about Ontario sport fish.

Local tackle shops and fishing guides are also terrific resources for anglers to learn where to fish and which species to target.

Being prepared and knowing the rules and regulations is the first step to a successful and memorable fishing adventure in Ontario. Whether it’s your first time fishing or you’re a lifelong angler, there’s always more to learn. Finding answers to some of the most frequently asked questions is a great place to start.