Wabakimi Provincial Park | Wilderness North
Angling adventure
Ontario is renowned worldwide for its exceptional range and diversity of freshwater fishing experiences.
Angling lodges and resorts run the gamut from luxury, full-service, American Plan lodges to remote, fly-in or boat-in outpost camps where it’s just you, the wilderness and endless angling adventure. If you’re bringing your boat, gear and supplies, you’ll also find a wide variety of housekeeping-style accommodation options to call home during your fishing trip.
While Ontario’s waters are brimming with over 150 species of fish, feisty muskie, walleye, northern pike, bass, salmon, and brook and lake trout are some of the top picks that lure anglers.
Start planning a fishing trip of a lifetime, your next trophy catch is in Ontario.
Quick guide to an angling adventure
Fishing licence for Canadian residents
Residents of Ontario and Canadian residents outside of Ontario require an Outdoors Card and a fishing licence in order to fish in Ontario. Exceptions apply to anglers under 18 years old or 65 and older, veterans and members of the Canadian Armed Forces.
Fishing licence for non-residents in Ontario
Non-resident visitors (living outside of Canada) require a temporary Outdoors Card and valid fishing licence to fish in Ontario. Non-residents under the age of 18 may fish without a licence if accompanied by a licenced family member.
How to get your fishing licence
There are several ways to secure an outdoor card and fishing license. You can buy them online, in person at a participating ServiceOntario location or a licence issuer, or over the phone by calling 1-800-288-1155.
Ontario fishing regulations
This annual guide to the rules and regulations for recreational fishing in Ontario contains information about recreational fishing licences, open seasons and catch limits, as well as up-to-date fishing regulations for each fishing zone.
Get inspired
Planning your angling adventure? Get started with these helpful articles.
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Know before you go
Live bait restrictions
You cannot bring live minnows, smelts, leeches or any other baitfish into Ontario from the U.S. Nightcrawlers are allowed but they must be brought in containers with artificial bedding only. In some areas of Ontario and on many individual bodies of water, you cannot use nor possess any kind of live bait. Read more on fishing bait rules.
Bringing your boat into Canada
You can trailer or cruise your boat into Canada. Customs officers stationed along highway border crossings and at harbours issue permits, which must be returned upon departure. Many destinations offer remote area border crossings that require you to register by telephone. Get more information from Canada Border Services. Clean boats ensure clean waters, prevent the spread of invading species.
Last updated: June 6, 2023