Fishing is a beloved pastime for many in Ontario, Canada, and for good reason. The province boasts an abundance of lakes, rivers, and streams teeming with a diverse array of fish species. However, before you can cast your line and reel in your catch, you must obtain a valid fishing license. The cost of an Ontario fishing license in 2024 varies depending on several factors, including your residency status and the type of license you require.
Outdoors Card: The Key to Fishing in Ontario
Before purchasing a fishing license in Ontario, you must first obtain an Outdoors Card. This wallet-sized plastic card serves as your pass to both hunting and fishing across the province. When you secure your fishing license, it is printed directly on your Outdoors Card, making it a crucial item to have on hand during your fishing expeditions. The cost of an Outdoors Card is $8.57 for all anglers, regardless of residency status.
Sport Fishing Licenses
Sport fishing licenses in Ontario are designed for anglers who wish to keep their catch. These licenses come with a catch and possession limit of four fish, with only one fish allowed to be longer than 90 cm. Anglers are also required to immediately release any fish caught between 70-90 cm in length.
The cost of a sport fishing license in Ontario for residents in 2024 is as follows:
- 1-Year Sport Fishing License: $26.57
- 3-Year Sport Fishing License: $79.71
For Canadian residents who are not Ontario residents, the cost of a sport fishing license in 2024 is:
- 1-Year Sport Fishing License: $55.81
- 3-Year Sport Fishing License: $167.43
Non-Canadian residents can purchase a sport fishing license in 2024 at the following rates:
- 1-Year Sport Fishing License: $83.19
- 3-Year Sport Fishing License: $249.57
- 8-Day Sport Fishing License: $54.38
- 1-Day Sport Fishing License (Outdoors Card not required): $24.86
Conservation Fishing Licenses
Conservation fishing licenses in Ontario are designed for anglers who wish to practice catch-and-release fishing. These licenses have a catch and possession limit of one fish and do not have any size restrictions.
The cost of a conservation fishing license in Ontario for residents in 2024 is:
- 1-Year Conservation Fishing License: $15.07
- 3-Year Conservation Fishing License: $45.21
For Canadian residents who are not Ontario residents, the cost of a conservation fishing license in 2024 is:
- 1-Year Conservation Fishing License: $33.43
- 3-Year Conservation Fishing License: $100.29
Non-Canadian residents can purchase a conservation fishing license in 2024 at the following rates:
- 1-Year Conservation Fishing License: $52.71
- 3-Year Conservation Fishing License: $158.13
- 8-Day Conservation Fishing License: $31.52
It’s important to note that all fishing license fees in Ontario are subject to the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST).
Purchasing Your Ontario Fishing License
You can purchase your Ontario fishing license online through the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry website, at any local Ministry office, or at participating retailers such as Canadian Tire stores. When purchasing your license, you will need to provide your address and other contact information, as well as proof of residency if required.
If your Outdoors Card hasn’t arrived yet, the Licence Summary provided at the time of purchase acts as a temporary pass, allowing you to start fishing right away while you wait for your physical card to arrive in the mail.
Fishing Regulations and Limits
In addition to obtaining a valid fishing license, anglers in Ontario must also be aware of the fishing regulations and limits specific to the species they are targeting and the zone in which they are fishing. These regulations include size limits, catch limits, and seasonal restrictions.
You can find detailed information on fishing regulations and limits in the Ontario Fishing Regulations Summary, which is available online or at participating retailers. It’s important to familiarize yourself with these regulations before heading out on your fishing adventure.
Fishing in Ontario is a wonderful way to enjoy the great outdoors and connect with nature. By understanding the cost of fishing licenses and the regulations in place, you can ensure that you are fishing legally and responsibly while making the most of the province’s abundant fishing opportunities.