THUNDER BAY – FAMILY – Canadians can fish in Ontario without buying a licence during Family Fishing Week, which is July 2 to 10 this year. Family Fishing Week is a great opportunity to learn about the sport in a fun and affordable way.
There are also many family-friendly fishing events taking place during Family Fishing Week in towns and provincial parks across Ontario. Many of them are great for beginners, too!
Whether you’re completely new to fishing or you’ve been doing it for years, it’s a wonderful way to connect with nature, enjoy this province’s great outdoors and spend time with your family or friends. I encourage all Ontarians to get out and try fishing during this Family Fishing Week,” shared Kathryn McGarry, Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry.
The Learn to Fish Program is offered at six provincial parks and special Learn to Fish events, including:
- Information booth at Harbourfront Centre in Toronto, July 1 to 3
- Learn to Fish Mobile Unit at Barrie Promenade Days, July 1 to 3
- Learn to Fish experience at Balsam Lake Provincial Park, July 5
- Information booth at Belleville Waterfront Festival, July 7 to 10
If you don’t have your own fishing gear, don’t worry! Check out the Tackleshare program and borrow some equipment for free.
Fishing in Ontario is more than just a hobby – it is beneficial for the province’s economy, too. In 2014-2015, the sale of Outdoor Cards and all types of resident and non-resident recreational fishing licences created an estimated $37.2 million in revenue for the province.
QUICK FACTS
- Canadian residents may fish in Ontario without a licence during Family Fishing Week, but non-residents do need a licence.
- Ontario’s lakes and rivers are home to approximately 160 types of freshwater fish.
- The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, Canadian Sportfishing Industry Association, Canadian National Sportfishing Foundation and many local sponsors and volunteers support Family Fishing Week.
- Anglers are reminded to follow the rules in the Ontario Fishing Regulations summary.
