Canadians will not need a fishing licence over the next week in order to reel in a catch in Ontario's waterways.
The provincial government will allow free fishing from June 29 until July 7 in celebration of Canada Day.
“I welcome anyone curious about fishing to experience the excitement and satisfaction of this great sport firsthand,” said Minister of Natural Resources Graydon Smith. “Wherever you are in Ontario – urban or rural – there are abundant opportunities to enjoy free fishing in celebration of Canada Day.”
This is the last free fishing period in 2024 in Ontario.
There are only three other times during the year when the Ontario government permits fishing without a licence, in February for Family Day, in May for Mother's Day, and in June for Father's Day.
Outside of free fishing periods, most Canadians between the ages of 18 and 65 must have an Outdoors Card and a fishing licence. Veterans and active members of the Canadian Armed Forces who live in Ontario can fish recreationally all year within the province.
During this time, anglers are still required to follow conservation licence catch limits and carry government-issued identification that shows their full name and date of birth.