Does ServiceOntario Sell Fishing Licenses in 2024?

If you’re an avid angler in Ontario, you may be wondering where to purchase your fishing license for the 2024 season. One common question is whether ServiceOntario, the province’s one-stop shop for government services, sells fishing licenses. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide you with all the information you need to obtain your fishing license in Ontario for 2024.

Where to Buy Fishing Licenses in Ontario

In Ontario, there are several ways to purchase your fishing license for 2024. The most convenient option is to visit the Fish and Wildlife Licensing Service, which allows you to buy:

Outdoors Cards
Fishing licenses
Hunting licenses

You can access the Fish and Wildlife Licensing Service online or by calling 1-800-288-1155. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, making it easy to purchase your license at your convenience.

In addition to the Fish and Wildlife Licensing Service, you can also purchase your fishing license from the following authorized issuers:

Participating ServiceOntario locations
Authorized license issuers, such as tackle shops, marinas, and tourist operators
Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry offices

It’s important to note that while ServiceOntario does not directly sell fishing licenses, you can purchase them at participating ServiceOntario locations. These locations act as authorized issuers, providing you with the convenience of obtaining your license while accessing other government services.

Types of Fishing Licenses in Ontario

Ontario offers two main types of fishing licenses: sport fishing licenses and conservation fishing licenses. The type of license you choose will depend on your fishing preferences and the catch and possession limits you’re comfortable with.

Sport fishing licenses provide full catch and possession privileges, while conservation fishing licenses have reduced catch and possession limits. The cost of these licenses varies based on your residency status (Ontario resident, Canadian resident, or non-Canadian resident) and the duration of the license (one-year or three-year).

In addition to annual licenses, Ontario also offers one-day sport fishing licenses, which are ideal for visitors or those who only fish occasionally. These licenses do not require an Outdoors Card, making them a convenient option for those who don’t plan to fish regularly.

Outdoors Cards and Fishing Licenses

To fish legally in Ontario, you must have a valid Outdoors Card and fishing license, unless you purchase a one-day sport fishing license. The Outdoors Card is a plastic, wallet-sized card that serves as identification for fishing and hunting purposes. It is valid for three calendar years and can be purchased through the Fish and Wildlife Licensing Service or when renewing your license.

When you purchase your fishing license, you will receive a license summary document that lists all valid fishing and hunting licenses. This document can be printed or saved in digital format and must be carried with you while fishing. Alternatively, the back of your Outdoors Card may indicate a three-year or one-year fishing license, which can be used as proof of your license.

Exemptions and Special Fishing Opportunities

Ontario offers several exemptions and special fishing opportunities throughout the year. Individuals under 18 or over 65 years of age, as well as those with certain disabilities, may not need to purchase a fishing license. Instead, they can carry government-issued identification that includes their name and date of birth while fishing.

Ontario and Canadian residents are also provided with four opportunities throughout the year to fish without having to purchase a fishing license. These dates include:

Family Fishing Weekend (February 17–19, 2024)
Mother’s Day Weekend (May 11–12, 2024)
Father’s Day Weekend (June 15–16, 2024)
Ontario Family Fishing Week (June 29 – July 7, 2024)

During these special fishing opportunities, anglers must follow catch and possession limits for conservation fishing licenses and carry government-issued identification.

In conclusion, while ServiceOntario does not directly sell fishing licenses, you can purchase them at participating ServiceOntario locations or through the Fish and Wildlife Licensing Service. By understanding the types of licenses available, the requirements for an Outdoors Card, and the special fishing opportunities offered in Ontario, you’ll be well-equipped to obtain your fishing license for the 2024 season.