As the sun rises over the glistening waters of Ontario’s lakes and rivers, anglers across the province prepare for a day of fishing. But before they can cast their lines, they must consider an important decision: which type of fishing license to purchase. In Ontario, there are two main options – sport fishing and conservation fishing. While both allow individuals to enjoy the thrill of reeling in a catch, there are distinct differences between the two that anglers should be aware of.
The Basics: Sport vs. Conservation Fishing Licenses
To legally fish in Ontario, anglers must possess either an Outdoors Card or a fishing license. The Outdoors Card is a plastic, wallet-sized card valid for three calendar years and used for administrative purposes. In addition to the Outdoors Card, anglers must also carry a license summary, which lists all valid fishing licenses.
Ontario offers two types of recreational fishing licenses: sport fishing and conservation fishing. The main difference between the two lies in the catch and possession limits. Sport fishing licenses allow anglers to catch and keep more fish, while conservation fishing licenses have reduced limits.
Catch and Possession Limits: What’s the Difference?
The catch and possession limits for sport and conservation fishing licenses vary depending on the species of fish and the specific Fisheries Management Zone. However, in general, sport fishing licenses have higher limits compared to conservation fishing licenses.
For example, in Management Zone 11, the walleye limit for sport fishing is 4, while for conservation fishing it is 2. Similarly, the smallmouth bass limit for sport fishing is 6, and for conservation fishing it is 2. The same pattern holds true for other species such as northern pike and lake trout.
It’s important to note that anglers must adhere to the catch and possession limits of their respective licenses. If an angler with a conservation fishing license has already caught and kept their daily limit of a particular species, they are no longer allowed to continue fishing for that species. If they accidentally catch a fish of that species, they must release it immediately and relocate to a different area.
Cost and Availability: Comparing License Options
The cost of fishing licenses in Ontario varies depending on the type and duration of the license. Sport fishing licenses are generally more expensive than conservation fishing licenses.
For example, in 2024, a one-year sport fishing license for an Ontario resident costs CA$26.57, while a one-year conservation fishing license costs CA$15.07. Similarly, a three-year sport fishing license costs CA$79.71, and a three-year conservation fishing license costs CA$45.21.
Fishing licenses can be purchased from a variety of sources, including tackle stores, marinas, bait shops, and online through the Ontario government’s website. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the government has encouraged anglers to purchase their licenses online whenever possible.
Exceptions and Exemptions: Who Doesn’t Need a License?
While most anglers in Ontario are required to purchase a fishing license, there are some exceptions and exemptions.
Individuals who have been issued an accessible parking permit under Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act or a Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) national identity card can use these documents as a fishing license.
Ontario and Canadian residents who are under 18 or 65 years of age or older do not need to purchase a fishing license. However, they must carry a government-issued identification document that indicates their name and date of birth.
Finally, Ontario residents who are active members or veterans of the Canadian Armed Forces can use their Canadian Forces Identification Card (NDI 20), Record of Service Card (NDI 75), or Canadian Armed Forces Veteran’s Service Card (NDI 75) as a fishing license.
Conservation Fishing: Preserving Ontario’s Fisheries
While sport fishing offers the thrill of catching and keeping more fish, conservation fishing plays a crucial role in preserving Ontario’s fisheries for future generations.
Conservation fishing emphasizes the experience of fishing and a sense of oneness with the environment. Conservationists tend to release many of their catches to maintain healthy fish populations and ensure there are plenty of fish for future anglers to enjoy.
Garden Island Lodge, located in Management Zone 11, heavily promotes catch and release fishing. They understand that no lake has an unlimited supply of fish and that reducing the effects of fishing pressure can improve angling success for future trips.
By choosing to fish with a conservation license and practicing catch and release, anglers can help extend the fishing season and allow larger fish to spawn again. This not only benefits the fish but also provides a more sustainable and enjoyable experience for anglers in the long run.