Ontario Offering Free Fishing to Celebrate Canada Day

Free fishing from July 1 to July 9 across the province

June 29, 2023

Natural Resources and Forestry


Table of Contents

  1. Content
  2. Quick Facts
  3. Additional Resources
  4. Related Topics

TORONTO – To help celebrate Canada Day, the Ontario government is encouraging families, fishing enthusiasts and first-time anglers to participate in the province’s week-long free fishing event. From July 1 to July 9, Canadian residents can fish for free.

“To help families celebrate Canada Day, we’re making it easier to get out on the water and experience the world-class fishing opportunities that exist in Ontario,” said Graydon Smith, Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry. “Fishing is a fun and affordable way for families to enjoy quality time, while connecting with nature.”

Families are encouraged to plan their fishing trip or find a local event by visiting http://www.ontariofamilyfishing.com/.

If you are fishing for free during this period, you must carry ID issued by the provincial or federal government, showing your name and date of birth.


Quick Facts

  • This is the last free fishing period in 2023 when Canadian residents can fish for free.
  • If you are fishing for free during this Canada Day period, all conservation licence catch limits, size limits, sanctuaries and all other fishing regulations and rules still apply.
  • All veterans and active Canadian Armed Forces members residing in Ontario can enjoy free recreational fishing in the province any time of year.

Additional Resources

What You Need to Know about Free Family Fishing

Fishing in Ontario

Find a new fishing spot using Fish ON-Line

Learn to Fish in Ontario

Guide to eating Ontario fish


Related Topics

Rural and North

Information about the province’s Far North and rural communities. Get connected to business improvement organizations and learn more about funding and programs that support rural, northern and Indigenous communities. Learn more

Travel and Recreation

Learn more about hunting and fishing, provincial parks, festivals and events, and visiting Ontario. Learn more