Celebrate Mother’s Day Weekend with Free Fishing
Fish for free across Ontario from May 9 to 10
This Mother’s Day weekend, Ontario is offering families a chance to cast a line and enjoy the outdoors together for free. From May 9 to 10, Canadian residents can fish in Ontario without purchasing a licence or Outdoors Card.
“Fishing is a great way for families to make unforgettable memories while enjoying the outdoors,” said Mike Harris, Minister of Natural Resources. “Free fishing weekends are an opportunity to check out Ontario’s top‑notch fishing and take part in a timeless tradition that brings people together right across the province.”
Recreational fishing is a key part of Ontario’s economy, supporting local tourism and jobs in communities across the province. Free fishing opportunities like Mother’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 Mother’s Day weekend, all conservation licence catch and size limits, sanctuaries and all other fishing regulations still apply.
Quick Facts
- This weekend marks the second of four free-fishing periods in Ontario this year. The remaining dates are Father’s Day Weekend (June 20–21) and Family Fishing Week (June 27–July 5).
- For beginners, Ontario offers loans of rods and reels for free through the TackleShare program, as well as an online Learn to Fish Guide to help new anglers get started until in‑person Learn to Fish programs begin in June.
- 1.3 million licensed 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.
