TORONTO — Ontario families can drop a line without dropping a dime this Family Day weekend, as the provincial government waives fishing licence and Outdoors Card requirements from Feb. 14 to 16.
The Ministry of Natural Resources announced the annual free fishing period on Wednesday, positioning the initiative as both a family-friendly winter activity and a boost to the province’s outdoor recreation economy.
“Family Day weekend is a perfect time for families to get outdoors and enjoy ice fishing here in Ontario,” said Mike Harris, Minister of Natural Resources. “Whether you’re a seasoned angler or it’s your first time ice fishing, take advantage of this opportunity to get out and make lasting memories with friends and family.”
The temporary exemption allows Canadian residents to fish across the province without purchasing a licence or carrying an Outdoors Card, though standard regulations remain in place. Conservation Fishing Licence catch and possession limits will continue to apply, along with sanctuary restrictions and other existing rules.
Provincial officials are also urging participants to prioritize safety, particularly for those heading onto frozen lakes for ice fishing. Conditions can vary widely across regions and waterways, and anglers are advised to consult local ice hut operators or experienced fishers before venturing out. Clear blue ice is generally considered the strongest, while white or honeycombed ice is weaker and more unpredictable. The ministry recommends informing someone of your fishing plans and wearing appropriate cold-weather gear.
The Family Day weekend opportunity marks the first of four free fishing periods scheduled in Ontario this year. Additional licence-free dates include Mother’s Day weekend from May 9 to 10, Father’s Day weekend from June 20 to 21, and Family Fishing Week from June 27 to July 5.
The government says these designated weekends are designed to lower barriers for newcomers while highlighting the broader economic role of recreational fishing in Ontario.
According to provincial data, approximately 1.3 million licensed anglers spend $2.4 billion annually on recreational fishing in Ontario. That spending supports tourism operators, bait and tackle shops, lodges, guides and other small businesses in communities across the province, particularly in rural and northern regions.
“Recreational fishing is a vital part of Ontario’s economy, contributing significantly to local tourism and jobs in communities across the province,” the ministry said in its release. “Free fishing periods, such as Family Day weekend, encourage more people to discover the joy of fishing and help protect Ontario’s resource-based industry by promoting the many economic, social and environmental benefits that recreational anglers bring to the province.”
While licences are not required during the promotional periods, Canadian residents must carry valid government-issued identification showing their name and date of birth. Outside of the designated free fishing dates, most individuals between the ages of 18 and 64 are required to hold both an Outdoors Card and a valid fishing licence.
The province also notes that all veterans and active Canadian Armed Forces members residing in Ontario are eligible to fish recreationally without a licence at any time of the year, provided fishing is otherwise permitted.
Fishing licences can be purchased online through the provincial portal at HuntAndFishOntario.com, where officials advise consumers to confirm the Ontario logo when buying online. Licences are also available in person at participating ServiceOntario locations and authorized licence issuers.
Beyond the free weekend itself, the ministry is promoting additional resources for anglers, including guides on ice fishing safety, tools such as Fish ON-Line to locate new fishing spots, and information on family-friendly fishing events taking place across the province.
With much of Ontario still in the grip of winter, the Family Day weekend initiative offers a seasonal economic nudge as well as a recreational draw. For outfitters, equipment suppliers and tourism operators, the influx of novice and returning anglers can provide a mid-winter lift.
For families, the pitch is simpler: bundle up, check the ice and head outside. For three days, at least, the only requirement is a warm coat and a bit of patience at the end of the line.