Free fishing returns from June 27 to July 5 to celebrate Canada Day and encourage more folks to enjoy the outdoors.
Canadian residents can fish for Family Fishing Week without purchasing a fishing licence or Outdoors Card. It’s the final free fishing opportunity of 2026, following Father’s and Mother’s Day, and Family Day Weekend.
Conservation licence catch and size limits, fishing sanctuaries and other fishing regulations still apply.
“Whether you're a lifelong angler or casting a line for the very first time, our government is making it easier and more convenient to enjoy all that Ontario’s world-class fishing has to offer,” Natural Resources Minister Mike Harris stated on June 24. “With free fishing available across the province, Canada Day week is the perfect time to get outdoors, spend time with family and friends, and create lasting memories on the water.”
Recreational fishing is a key part of Ontario’s economy, supporting local tourism and jobs in communities across the province, the province stated — some 1.16 million licensed anglers spend $2.4 billion per year on recreational fishing.
