Fishing Licence Information for Non-Residents of Canada

I live outside of Canada. Do I need a licence to fish in Ontario?

Anyone who lives outside of Canada is considered a non-resident for the purposes of fishing licence regulations. Most non-residents need a fishing licence to fish in Ontario. Specifically:

• Non-residents 18 years of age and over must purchase a fishing licence.
• Non-residents under 18 years of age may fish without a licence if accompanied by a adult who has a recreational fishing licence. Any fish caught are part of the catch and possession limit of the adult who holds the licence. As another option, non-residents under 18 years may purchase a licence and any fish caught apply to the catch and possession limits of that licence.
• Non-residents 65 years of age or older are not exempt from licencing.

NOTE: Non-residents camping on Crown land in Northwestern Ontario (Zones 2, 4, 6 and Zone 5 except in the border waters area) must observe Conservation Licence limits except for in the border waters area (see Licences for Provincial and International Border Waters ).

For non-resident groups of children (at least five people under the age of 18 years accompanied by a licenced adult) there is a special Licence for Members of an Organized Camp. This licence is available from Ministry of Natural Resources offices.

Where can I purchase a non-resident's fishing licence?

Non-resident anglers may purchase a fishing licence that is effective immediately at more than 2,000 locations throughout the province. Licences are often available from tourist outfitters' camps and lodges, summer camps, and sporting goods stores or bait dealers. In smaller communities, they may be available at general stores or other retail establishments.

A range of licences is offered to suit individual needs.

Non-resident fishing licences are also available through the mail by calling the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources at 1-800-667-1940.