CELEBRATE MOTHER’S DAY WEEKEND WITH FREE FISHING
Fish for free across Ontario from May 9 to 10
May 06, 2026
Ministry of Natural ResourcesTORONTO — 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 regulationsstill 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.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
* Learn more about free family fishing
* Fishing in Ontario
* Find a new fishing spot using Fish ON-Line
* Guide to eating Ontario fish
