“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,” said Mike Harris, Minister of Natural Resources. “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. Free fishing opportunities like Canada Day week provide a chance for people to learn more about fishing on Ontario’s lakes and rivers.

For families participating in free fishing from June 27 to July 5, all conservation licence catch and size limits, fishing sanctuaries and other fishing regulations still apply.

“Some of the best memories are made out on the water,” said Mike Harris, Minister of Natural Resources. “Father’s Day weekend is a great chance to cast a line for the first time, or rediscover the joy of it, while getting out to enjoy Ontario’s beautiful outdoors.”

Recreational fishing is a key part of Ontario’s economy, supporting local tourism and jobs in communities across the province. Free fishing opportunities like Father’s Day weekend provide a chance for people to learn more about fishing on Ontario’s lakes and rivers.

If you are fishing for free during the Father’s Day weekend, all conservation licence catch and size limits, fishing sanctuaries and other fishing regulations still apply.

“Fishing is a great way for families to make unforgettable memories while enjoying the outdoors,” said Mike Harris, Minister of Natural Resources. “Free fishing weekends are an opportunity to check out Ontario’s top‑notch fishing and take part in a timeless tradition that brings people together right across the province.”

Recreational fishing is a key part of Ontario’s economy, supporting local tourism and jobs in communities across the province. Free fishing opportunities like Mother’s Day weekend provide a chance for people to learn more about fishing on Ontario’s lakes and rivers.

If you are fishing for free during the Mother’s Day weekend, all conservation licence catch and size limits, sanctuaries and all other fishing regulations still apply.

“Family Day weekend is a perfect time for families to get outdoors and enjoy ice fishing here in Ontario,” said Mike Harris, Minister of Natural Resources. “Whether you’re a seasoned angler or it’s your first time ice fishing, take advantage of this opportunity to get out and make lasting memories with friends and family.”

Before heading out to ice fish, keep safety the top priority. Check conditions with local ice hut operators or anglers and remember that clear blue ice is strongest, while white or honeycombed ice is weaker. Let someone know where you will be fishing and wear appropriate gear for warmth and safety.

Conservation Fishing Licence catch and possession limits continue to be in effect as do restrictions in sanctuaries and other fishing regulations.

Recreational fishing is a vital part of Ontario’s economy, contributing significantly to local tourism and jobs in communities across the province. Free fishing periods, such as Family Day weekend, encourage more people to discover the joy of fishing and help protect Ontario’s resource-based industry by promoting the many economic, social and environmental benefits that recreational anglers bring to the province.

Bradley Barker of Dayton, Ohio pleaded guilty to catching and retaining fish during the closed season and possessing fish that had been skinned so that the species could not be easily identified. He was fined a total of $1,630 and is prohibited from possessing an Ontario fishing licence or engaging in any fishing activities in Ontario for one year.

Mark Burger of Grand Ledge, Michigan pleaded guilty to catching and retaining fish during the closed season and possessing fish that had been skinned so that the species could not be easily identified. He was fined a total of $1,630 and is prohibited from possessing an Ontario fishing licence or engaging in any fishing activities in Ontario for one year.

The Ontario Court of Justice heard that on June 20, 2025, a conservation officer inspected anglers who had been fishing on Frood Lake while staying at Charlton Lake Camp near the community of Willisville, Ontario. A subsequent investigation revealed that Burger and Barker’s fishing group had caught and retained 22 smallmouth bass throughout the week and were in possession of two large bags of unidentifiable fish fillets. The season for smallmouth bass in this area of Fisheries Management Zone 10 does not open until the third Saturday in June, which was June 21 in 2025. All 22 smallmouth bass were seized.

Justice of the Peace Diane Lafleur heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Elliot Lake, on September 11, 2025.

To report a natural resource problem or provide information about an unsolved case, members of the public can call the ministry TIPS line toll free at 1-877-847-7667. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS. For more information about unsolved cases, please visit ontario.ca/mnrtips.

Darman Shad of North York pleaded guilty to fishing for salmon with unlawful equipment, unlawfully sport fishing at night and fishing without a licence. He was fined $2,500.

Mohammad Arslan of North York pleaded guilty to fishing for salmon with unlawful equipment, unlawfully sport fishing at night and fishing without a licence. He was fined $2,500.

The court heard that on September 15, 2024, conservation officers were conducting focused enforcement efforts at the Bowmanville Creek in the Region of Durham. With the assistance of a Remotely Piloted Aircraft System, officers observed two individuals netting spawning salmon at night using a makeshift net. Officers contacted the two individuals and determined they were unlicenced to fish.

Justice of the Peace Karen Valentine heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Whitby, on May 7, 2025.

To report a natural resource problem or provide information about an unsolved case, members of the public can call the ministry TIPS line toll free at 1-877-847-7667. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS. For more information about unsolved cases, please visit ontario.ca/mnrtips.

Tyler Nicholas of Midland, Michigan pleaded guilty to catching and retaining 22 yellow perch over the legal limit. He was fined $2,000 and is prohibited from obtaining a fishing licence or engaging in any fishing-related activities in Ontario for two years. In addition, all fishing equipment used is being forfeited to the Crown.

The court heard that on February 11, 2025, a conservation officer encountered Nicholas while ice fishing on Lake Simcoe near the town of Beaverton. An inspection revealed that Nicholas had caught and retained 72 yellow perch that day, 22 more than the daily sport fishing licence quota of 50.

Justice of the Peace Richard R. Therrien heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Whitby, on April 2, 2025.

To report a natural resource problem or provide information about an unsolved case, members of the public can call the ministry TIPS line toll free at 1-877-847-7667. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS. For more information about unsolved cases, please visit ontario.ca/mnrtips.

“This Father’s Day weekend, take the opportunity to head outdoors, cast a line and create lasting memories with the people who matter most,” said Mike Harris, Minister of Natural Resources. “Whether it’s your first-time fishing or a time-honoured family tradition, this is a great way to explore Ontario’s beautiful lakes and rivers while supporting the local communities, jobs and businesses that depend on our province’s diverse fishing opportunities.”

Recreational fishing is an important part of Ontario’s economy, contributing significantly to local tourism and jobs. Opportunities like Father’s Day weekend encourage those new to fishing to give it a try and experience the enjoyment of fishing firsthand.

If you are fishing for free during the Father’s Day weekend, all conservation licence catch and size limits, sanctuaries and other fishing regulations still apply.

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