Press Release
Ontarians can fish without buying a licence this Family Day weekend (Feb. 13-15) as part of Family Fishing Weekend.
Anglers are encouraged to stay safe on the ice when venturing out:
•Check ice conditions with local ice hut operators or other anglers.
At least 10 cm (four inches) of clear blue ice is required to walk on, 20 cm (eight inches) for snowmobiles, and 30 cm (12 inches) or more for most light vehicles.
This thickness should be doubled if the ice is white or opaque.
•Let others know where you’re planning to fish and when you plan to return.
•Appropriate clothing and equipment are critical to safety and comfort (many anglers wear floatation suits and carry a set of ice picks).
So get outside and enjoy some fresh air this weekend in communities across the province.
“Fishing is a great outdoor activity that can be enjoyed with family and friends,” said Natural Resources and Forestry minister Bill Mauro.
“I encourage you to get out and try some fishing this Family Day weekend,” he remarked.
“Safety is always important so before you head out, check ice conditions with local ice hut operators or other anglers,” Mauro added.
“Ontario Family Fishing Weekend is a fantastic opportunity to get out and enjoy the great outdoors, and create long-lasting memories alongside friends and family,” said Angelo Lombardo, executive director of the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters.
“At the O.F.A.H., we strive to create opportunities for all to experience what the outdoors has to offer and this weekend is another example of just that,” he noted.
In 2014, anglers bought some 1.1 million fishing licences in Ontario, generating about $36.6 million in revenue.
This year, Canadian residents can fish without a licence in Ontario from Feb. 13-15 and from July 2-10.
Anglers are reminded to follow rules, including conservation licence limits, in the 2016 Fishing Regulations Summary.
All revenue from the sale of hunting and fishing licences in Ontario is used for wildlife and fisheries management.
