The VOICE of Anglers and Hunters since 1928

COVID-19 FAQ

The OFAH understands that the uncertainty around the COVID-19 pandemic and its potential impact on fishing and hunting in Ontario has raised many questions within the outdoors community. With that in mind, we have updated our original list of frequently asked questions and answers for anglers and hunters. As we all continue to try to navigate and understand the challenges posed by this unprecedented situation, further updates will be added.

See below. If you didn’t see your question answered here, then please contact us at covid19@ofah.org.

The Government of Ontario has not made any direct changes to fishing and hunting and the majority of outdoor recreational areas have reopened. Outdoor social gatherings with people outside of your household are limited to 25 people or fewer, and physically distanced. Indoor social gatherings (including ice huts) are limited to 10 people or fewer. It is recommended that if you are gathering with people outside of your household, that you physically distance and/or wear a mask. If you’re fishing or hunting, follow physical distancing guidelines. While hunting and fishing are not prohibited activities, you may be fined for breaking COVID-19 restrictions. You can find more information on closures and OFAH’s health and safety advice for anglers and hunters at ofah.org/covid19.

While there are no specific COVID-19 guidelines for anglers and hunters, only 10 people or fewer are permitted to gather indoors (this includes ice huts and hunt camps) and outdoor gatherings cannot exceed 25 people and everyone must maintain physical distancing. You can find OFAH’s health and safety advice for anglers and hunters at ofah.org/covid19.

Yes. While private businesses and retail store closures have significantly reduced the number of licence issuers available to purchase products in person, many ServiceOntario locations offer this service and remain open. Please note: the Government of Ontario is urging ‘Ontarians not to visit a ServiceOntario centre unless completely necessary’. Ontario fishing and hunting licence products can also be purchased by phone (1-800-288-1155) or online at huntandfishontario.com.

There are currently no restrictions on Crown land use. Outdoor gatherings cannot exceed 25 people.

Yes, however indoor gatherings are limited to 10 people.

The OFAH is encouraging all anglers and hunters to abide by all government Orders and follow government public health guidelines to ensure the safety of themselves and others. Where anglers and hunters live in the province, the opportunities available to them, and other factors will determine whether someone should go fishing or hunting. The direction of public health officials is paramount right now and every angler and hunter needs to take an honest look at their situation and determine if they can fish and hunt within those guidelines. More details on OFAH’s advice to anglers and hunters is available here: ofah.org/safetytips.

There is an option to take the hunter education course online. Visit ohep.net for more details. Currently, the firearms course is not available.

Licences and tags can still be purchased online and printed at home. Also, select Service Ontario sites and licence issuers are still open. Visit here for a list of Service Ontario closures. Note that not all Service Ontario’s provide licensing services. If these options are not accessible to you, you can purchase your licences, tags, and apply to draws over the phone at 1-800-288-1155. Only Outdoors Cards are mailed out, you will still need to print your licences and/or tags. If you have purchased a tag over the phone, you could have a trusted individual make an account for you at huntandfishontario.com and print your licence and/or tags for you. You can learn how to make an account here.

Yes, Conservation Officers continue to perform their duties to safeguard our natural resources and protect public safety.

Yes, a Conservation Officer is considered a provincial offences officer under Provincial Offences Act and can therefore issue fines under the EMCPA.

The current restrictions will be in effect for at least 21 days, starting January 31st.

A full list of current restrictions can be found here.

Last modified on February 2nd, 2022.

Disclaimer: Nothing stated on this page should be interpreted as legal advice. It is information-based only. Please follow provincial and local guidelines.

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