What Age Can You Fish Without a License in Ontario in 2024?

Fishing is a popular pastime in Ontario, Canada, attracting anglers from all over the world. However, before you can cast your line, it’s important to understand the province’s fishing license requirements. In Ontario, the age at which you need a fishing license varies depending on your residency status and age.

Fishing License Requirements for Ontario Residents

If you are a resident of Ontario and between the ages of 18 and 64, you are required to have a valid Outdoors Card and fishing license tag to fish in the province. The Outdoors Card is a plastic identification card that is valid for three calendar years, while the fishing license tag can be purchased for either one or three years.

There are two types of fishing licenses available in Ontario: conservation and sport. The conservation license has reduced catch limits, while the sport license allows for normal catch limits. The cost of an annual fishing license ranges from $25 to $45 CAD, depending on the type of license you choose.

Fishing License Requirements for Non-Canadian Residents

Non-Canadian residents who are 18 years of age or older are also required to have a valid Outdoors Card and fishing license tag to fish in Ontario. However, non-Canadian residents under the age of 18 may fish without a license if they are accompanied by a person who has a valid Outdoors Card and fishing license tag.

The cost of a fishing license for non-Canadian residents is higher than for Ontario residents. For example, a one-year non-resident sport fishing tag costs $84.96 CAD, while an eight-day non-resident sport fishing tag costs $54.67 CAD.

Fishing License Exemptions

There are a few exceptions to the fishing license requirements in Ontario. Residents who are under the age of 18 or 65 and older are not required to purchase an Outdoors Card or fishing license. Instead, they can carry a government-issued identification that includes their name and date of birth while fishing.

Additionally, non-Canadian residents who are under the age of 18 may fish without a license if they are accompanied by a person who has a valid Outdoors Card and fishing license tag. Any fish kept by the non-Canadian resident under 18 are part of the catch and possession limit of the person who holds the license.

Where to Purchase a Fishing License in Ontario

Fishing licenses in Ontario can be purchased online through the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry website, at a license issuer, or at a participating ServiceOntario location. You can also purchase a three-year fishing license through the automated telephone service at 1-800-288-1155 when renewing your Outdoors Card.

If you are planning to fish in Ontario, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the province’s fishing regulations and zones. The Ministry of Natural Resources classifies Ontario’s fisheries management zones according to location and fish populations. Make sure you know the zone in which you’re fishing, as there may be different regulations in different zones.