Province Celebrating Ontario’s Summer Angling Opportunities
The Voice of Canada News:
The Ontario government invites families to kick-off Canada Day celebrations by participating in the province’s week-long free fishing event. From June 29 to July 7, Ontarians of all ages can enjoy fishing without requiring a licence.
“Our government is making it easier for families to spend quality time together by making fishing more accessible and affordable in Ontario,” said John Yakabuski, Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry. “Families, fishing enthusiasts and those new to the sport have more opportunities than ever before to get out on the water.”
The free fishing week is a welcomed tradition and is the fourth licence-free fishing opportunity this year. In 2019, the Ontario government doubled the number of free fishing events by introducing licence-free fishing on the Father’s Day and Mother’s Day weekends.
“Free fishing events are a great way to experience the wonderful sport of fishing,” said Minister Yakabuski. “Ontario is home to many lakes, rivers and streams and there is no better time to experience the outdoors than in the summer months.”
“Fishing helps create a lifetime of memories for people of all ages,” said Angelo Lombardo, Executive Director, Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters. “Whether you are a long-time angler or being introduced to fishing for the first time, we hope that you take advantage of the free fishing opportunities available during Family Fishing Week and create some new, lasting memories.”
Families are encouraged to plan their fishing trip or find a local event by visiting http://www.ontariofamilyfishing.com/.
QUICK FACTS
The Ontario government introduced two new licence-free fishing events in 2019 — Mother’s Day weekend and Father’s Day weekend.
The free fishing events are coordinated through a partnership between the Ontario government and the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters.
The government also froze fishing licence fees and removed the $2 service fee in 2019, keeping approximately $2.7 million in the pockets of hard-working anglers.
All veterans and active Canadian Armed Forces members residing in Ontario can enjoy free recreational fishing in the province.
