This Family Day weekend, from February 14 to 16, Ontario residents and visitors can enjoy licence-free fishing across the province.
During this time, no fishing licence or Outdoors Card is required.
If you’re planning to head out on the ice, make safety your first priority. Always check ice conditions in advance by speaking with local ice hut operators or experienced anglers.
Keep in mind that clear, blue ice is generally the strongest, while white or honeycombed ice is more fragile.
Tell someone where you’ll be fishing and dress appropriately to stay warm and safe.
While fishing is free during this period, Conservation Fishing Licence catch and possession limits remain in place, along with all other regulations, including sanctuary restrictions.
Recreational fishing plays an important role in Ontario’s economy, supporting tourism, local businesses, and jobs in communities province-wide.
Events like the Family Day free fishing weekend introduce more people to the sport and highlight the economic, social, and environmental contributions anglers make to the province.