The arrival of Mother’s Day brings the return of free fishing on May 10 and 11.
The annual opportunity is the second of four free fishing events aimed at introducing more folks to angling. Other 2025 licence-free events include Family Day weekend (Feb. 15-17), Father’s Day weekend (June 14-15), as well as Family Fishing Week, from June 28 to July 6.
Mother’s Day weekend a chance to get outdoors
More than one million licensed anglers spend $1.75 billion per year on recreational fishing in Ontario, the province stated.
“Fishing is a timeless Ontario tradition that brings people together. Whether you’re an experienced angler or casting a line for the first time, fishing is a great way to connect with loved ones and enjoy everything the great outdoors has to offer,” Minister of Natural Resources Mike Harris stated in a release. “This Mother’s Day weekend, why not get outside and enjoy the water with friends and family, all while supporting local jobs and communities that thrive through fishing.”
ID required
Canadian residents participating in free fishing periods must carry identification issued by the provincial or federal government, showing their name and date of birth. Conservation licence catch limits, size limits, sanctuaries, and all other fishing regulations and rules still apply.
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 www.huntandfishontario.com. If buying online, always look for the Ontario logo. You can also purchase in person at participating ServiceOntario or authorized licence issuer locations.
Free fishing resources
TackleShare, an Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH) program supported by Ontario Power Generation, loans fishing equipment to the public at more than 140 loaner sites across Ontario. Beginners can learn how to ice fish via TackleShare YouTube Channel videos. Follow TackleShare on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram or visit www.tackleshare.com for more information.
Leave A Comment