Types of Ontario Fishing Licenses

Before diving into where to buy your Ontario fishing license, let’s review the different types of licenses available:

Outdoors Card

The Outdoors Card is a plastic identification card valid for three calendar years, required for most Ontario residents and Canadian residents to fish in the province. It costs $8.57 and serves as an administrative document.

Sport Fishing License

A Sport Fishing License allows for full catch-and-possession fishing privileges. It is available in the following durations:

  • 1-Day: $12.21 (Outdoors Card not required)
  • 1-Year: $26.57 for Ontario residents, $55.81 for Canadian residents, $83.19 for non-Canadian residents
  • 3-Year: $79.71 for Ontario residents, $167.43 for Canadian residents, $249.57 for non-Canadian residents
  • 8-Day (non-Canadian residents only): $54.38

Conservation Fishing License

A Conservation Fishing License includes reduced catch-and-possession limits and is ideal for anglers who plan to release most of their catch. It is available in the following durations:

  • 1-Year: $15.07 for Ontario residents, $33.43 for Canadian residents, $52.71 for non-Canadian residents
  • 3-Year: $45.21 for Ontario residents, $100.29 for Canadian residents, $158.13 for non-Canadian residents
  • 8-Day (non-Canadian residents only): $31.52

Where to Buy an Ontario Fishing License

Now that you know the types of licenses available, let’s explore where you can purchase your Ontario fishing license:

Online

The easiest and most convenient way to buy your Ontario fishing license is online through the Fish and Wildlife Licensing Service. Simply create an account, select your desired license type and duration, and complete the payment process. You can print your license summary immediately and will receive your plastic Outdoors Card by mail.

Participating ServiceOntario Locations

You can also purchase your Ontario fishing license in person at participating ServiceOntario locations. Be sure to bring valid identification and payment.

License Issuers

Many bait and tackle shops, outdoor stores, and marinas across Ontario are authorized license issuers. Call ahead to confirm availability and hours of operation.

By Phone

Ontario residents can renew their Outdoors Card and purchase a 3-year fishing license by calling 1-800-288-1155.

Who Needs an Ontario Fishing License?

Most anglers between the ages of 18 and 64 require an Ontario fishing license. However, there are some exceptions:

  • Ontario residents under 18 or 65 and older do not need an Outdoors Card or fishing license but must carry government-issued identification.
  • Canadian residents outside Ontario under 18 do not need a license if accompanied by a licensed adult, but any fish caught apply to the adult's catch and possession limits.
  • Members of Indigenous communities generally do not require a license when fishing within their traditional or treaty territory for food, social, or ceremonial purposes.

Free Fishing Opportunities in Ontario

Throughout the year, Ontario offers four license-free fishing opportunities for Canadian residents:

  • Family Fishing Weekend in February
  • Mother's Day Weekend in May
  • Father's Day Weekend in June
  • Family Fishing Week in July

During these times, anglers can fish without a license but must follow catch and possession limits for Conservation Fishing Licenses.