ONTARIO — The Ontario Government invites families to fish for free on Family Day weekend. From February 15 to 17, Canadian residents of all ages can enjoy fishing in Ontario without having to purchase a licence or carry an Outdoors Card. Veterans and active Canadian Armed Forces members residing in Ontario can enjoy year-round recreational fishing without having to purchase a fishing licence.
“Our government is making it easier for families to spend quality time together while enjoying Ontario’s world-class lakes, rivers and streams,” said John Yakabuski, Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry. “We have made life more affordable by doubling the number of free fishing events to also include the Mother’s Day and Father’s Day weekends.”
Family Day weekend is the first of four licence-free fishing opportunities in 2020. This year’s other licence-free fishing experiences are offered on Mother’s Day weekend (May 9-10), Father’s Day weekend (June 20-21), and during Family Fishing Week (July 4-12).
By offering a free fishing licence, an Ontario family of four could save up to $100. Free fishing events are offered through a partnership between the Ontario government and the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters. Anglers are reminded to stay safe when heading onto the ice to fish. For ice safety tips, visit www.ontario.ca/icefishing. Recreational anglers contribute $2.2 billion annually to the Ontario economy in direct and related spending.
