Free Fishing Weekend (Ontario)

Ontario Free Fishing Weekend runs May 9-10, 2026. Canadian residents can fish in Ontario without a licence province-wide. Open to all — great for families, beginners, or anyone introducing a friend to fishing. Check local Ottawa-area waterbodies and provincial parks for access points.

Introduce a friend to fishing, go out on your own or join an event.
OFFE is a province-wide opportunity for Canadian residents to fish in Ontario licence-free. There are four periods throughout the year: the 3-day Family Day weekend in February, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day weekends and a full 9 days in July, which coincides with National Fishing Week.

Participants fishing without a license must fish under the Conservation fishing license limits which are set out in the current Ontario Recreational Fishing Regulations Summary. With the exception of the licensing requirement, Ontario fishing regulations, fees and limits continue to apply during license-free days.

Who is it for?
All ages – Family
FREE

Event details can change, so verify with the organizer before attending.

Follow fishing rules
Free fishing periods remind us of the value of Ontario’s recreational fishery, and the importance of keeping it healthy for future generations. While fishing for free during a free fishing period you must:

follow conservation licence catch limits
obey size limits and sanctuaries
follow the fishing regulations
carry a permit or identification card issued by the provincial or federal government, showing your name and date of birth