If you’re ready to cast your line in Ontario’s beautiful lakes and rivers then you’re at the right place. This beginners guide has all the information you need to get started fishing in Ontario.
Table of Contents
Ontario is a fisherman’s paradise, with over 250,000 lakes and rivers to explore. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, there’s something for everyone here. From choosing the right gear to finding the best fishing spots, this guide has everything you need to plan a fishing trip in Ontario.
Outdoors Card and Fishing Licences
Before you grab your rod and head out to a local lake you must have both an Outdoors Card and a fishing licence. They’re easy to obtain and the information below should help you get started.
An Outdoors Card is a plastic, wallet-sized identification card issued by the ministry that allows you to fish.
A valid Outdoors Card is required for:
- Ontario residents
- Canadian residents
- non-residents
You’re required to carry this card with you at all times when you’re fishing.
How to Buy an Outdoors Card
The Outdoors Card is valid for three calendar years and the renewal period starts the first Tuesday of December every year.
You can buy or renew your Outdoors Card:
- online using the Fish and Wildlife Licensing Service
- by phone: 1-800-288-1155
- at a licence issuer
- at a participating ServiceOntario location
Requirements:
To buy, renew or replace an Outdoors Card, you need to provide your:
- legal first, middle and last name
- date of birth
- mailing and/or residential address
- height and eye colour
- parental consent (for resident hunters 12 to 15 years old)
Next you need a fishing license and here’s how you obtain it. It depends on whether you’re an Ontario resident, Canadian resident or a non-resident of Canada – different rules apply.
How to buy a fishing licence.
Know the Fishing Regulations for Fishing in Ontario
Of course there’s rules and regulations for fishing in Ontario and it’s relatively easy to follow them.
There’s an annual guide available to the rules and regulations for recreational fishing in Ontario. It contains information about recreational fishing licences, open seasons and catch limits, as well as up-to-date fishing regulations for each fishing zone. The guide for 2023 can be found here.
With 20 different zones and dates allowed for fishing don’t take a chance – verify your location for fishing in Ontario before you head out. The map below should help you learn more about your area.
Northwest Ontario
- FMZ 1, 2, 3 (Far North)
- FMZ 4 (Kenora, Red Lake, Dryden, Sioux Lookout, Thunder Bay)
- FMZ 5 (Fort Frances, Kenora and Dryden)
- FMZ 6 (Thunder Bay, Nipigon, Dryden)
- FMZ 7 (Geraldton, Terrace Bay, Manitouwadge, Wawa)
Northeast Ontario
- FMZ 1, 2, 3 (Far North)
- FMZ 7 (Geraldton, Terrace Bay, Manitouwadge, Wawa)
- FMZ 8 (Hearst, Chapleau, Cochrane, Timmins, Kirkland Lake)
- FMZ 10 (Sault St. Marie and Sudbury)
- FMZ 11 (North Bay and Nipissing)
- FMZ 12 (Ottawa River)
Great Lakes
- FMZ 9 (Lake Superior)
- FMZ 13 (main basin of Lake Huron)
- FMZ 14 (Georgian Bay and the North Channel of Lake Huron)
- FMZ 19 (Lake Erie)
- FMZ 20 (Lake Ontario)
Southern Ontario
Learn to Fish Guide and Gear
Unless you’re experienced at fishing there’s always questions regarding gear, fishing rods, reel, and line. What tackle is needed, how to cast, and learning how to identify the fish you catch can become overwhelming. Don’t let it. Here’s a link to all the questions you probably have and the answers you need.
Here’s a list of basic tackle
- Hooks
This is what catches the fish! Hooks usually have barbs, which can be bent down to help release fish faster. Note: You aren’t allowed to use barbed hooks in some waterbodies. You can find waterbody specific rules in the Recreational Fishing Regulations Summary and Fish ON-Line.
- Floats (or bobbers)
These have two functions: they suspend your bait in the water at a specific depth and also help show you when you have a bite.
- Weights (or sinkers)
Sinkers help weigh your bait down, getting closer to the fish! They are traditionally made of lead, but there are also non-toxic options made of steel or tungsten.
Stay safe when Fishing in Ontario
The most important aspect of fishing in Ontario is staying safe. You want to have a fun and exciting day catching a fish for dinner but before you cast that rod make sure you follow a few safety practices.
- wear a life jacket, sunscreen, and sunglasses
- tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll return
- keep an eye on the weather forecast
- keep a first aid kit handy
- if heading out in a boat, make sure you or your driver has a boating licence
Ice Fishing in Ontario
Why quit fishing just because winter has arrived? There’s no need to give up fishing because ice fishing is always an option.
Safety is probably the first concern – making sure the ice thickness is adequate and having proper safety equipment. It’s recommended that you not fish alone or at the very least make sure someone knows where you are.
Equipment is simple. You’ll need an auger or spud bar to make a hole in the ice, and a line with a hook and minnow or lure. The easiest fishing rods to use are tip ups or you can try a jigging rod available at most angling retailers. Simple – right?
Conclusion - Fishing in Ontario
Ontario is definitely home to some of the best fishing spots in the world. Some popular locations include Lake Ontario, Lake Simcoe, and the French River.
Research the type of fish you want to catch and the best time of year to catch them at your favourite fishing location. Don’t forget you can also check with local fishing guides, bait shops and talk to the locals. Fishing in Ontario is an experience you don’t want to miss.
