An ecological approach to the 20 fishing zones is the foundation of the Ministry of Natural Resources long term conservation and fisheries management program for Ontario. Ontario is all about the water, water sports, recreation, fishing vacations in an abundant Province with more than 400,000 lakes rivers and streams, and an estimated four billion fish waiting for visitors and residents.

The new summary of regulations can be picked up at most local tackle and bait stores or Ministry of Tourism Information Centres. The Fishing Ontario Regulations Summary includes a Map outlining each of the 20 fishing zones including U.S.—Canada border waters.

Ontario Fishing “Must Do Checklist”:

1. Become familiar with the area and regulations for the area where you will be fishing—species limits, seasonal dates, exceptions, additional fishing opportunities,

2. Buy your fishing licence before you start fishing. Decide on a full Sport Fishing License or a Conservation Fishing License. Different licences and costs apply to Ontario residents; other Canadian residents; and non-residents of Canada. Some exceptions apply during Family fishing weeks July 4-12, 2009 and family fishing weekend: Winter Family Fishing Weekend February 14-16, 2009. Summer family fishing weekend July 10-12, 2009.

Note: We encourage visitors to buy the fishing licence from the small tourist operator businesses in the area or region where they are fishing. Support Ontario’s small businesses who can sell a license. You will be surprised at how helpful, the many local bait and tackle businesses, the resorts and fishing lodges, fishing resorts, and fly-in fishing operations can be in providing tips, bait that is working, hidden fishing holes, and great hospitality.

3. Familiarize your understanding of the terms used in the fishing regulations in particular: Aggregate limits, bait, baitfish, catch and possession limits, use of livewells, catch and release, transporting fish in Ontario, packaging your fish catch, ice fishing regulations, and non-angling methods of capturing fish, and ways to stop the spread of invading fish species.

All of the above information can be found in detail in Fishing Ontario 2008-2009 Recreational Regulations Summary.

Additional Fishing Tips

Measuring Your Fish
Free Personalized Award Certificate from OFAH Ontario Angler Awards

If your fish, caught in Ontario, is equal to or longer than the required minimum lengths, just fill in the entry forma and be recognized for your catch. For complete rules and regulations plus an official entry form visit Ontario Angler Awards or call 705-748-6324.