The Ontario government is encouraging families to take the opportunity to go out in nature to any of over 100 provincial parks this weekend. On the occasion of Father’s Day, which falls this Sunday, fishing will be possible free of charge and without the need of having a license.

The government allows this initiative only on Saturday, June 19 and Sunday, June 20. You will be able to go to one of the many parks in Ontario without the need of carrying an Outdoors Card, and fishing will be possible without purchasing a license.

“Whether you’re new to fishing or it’s something you already do as a family, free fishing on Father’s Day weekend provides a fun and safe way to bond with your family. This is a great way for families to enjoy one of Ontario’s greatest natural resources – our beautiful and abundant lakes, rivers and streams,” John Yakabuski, Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry, said. While families will enjoy fishing, free of charge, without the need of having a license, this weekend or any other date, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry would like to remind to obey catch limits, fish size limits and their sanctuaries are follow other fishing regulations.

You can find more out about the fishing regulations here: https://www.ontario.ca/document/ontario-fishing-regulations-summary

However, you don’t have to go fishing only – you can also go hiking in a park of your choice. The province offers free admission to over 100 parks on Sunday, June 20. To ensure you enter one of Ontario’s 17 most popular parks, it is recommended that you register your car in advance of your arrival.

You can learn more about free one-day park use in Ontario here: https://www.ontarioparks.com/dayuse

“Ontario Parks offer so many opportunities for families to be together, get active and take in the fresh air, and we are happy to provide another affordable way to do that with free day-use this Father’s Day,” Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, Jeff Yurek said. “I encourage all families to take advantage of the great weather and celebrate the day, while also being responsible and continuing to follow all public health advice, including physical distancing,” he continued.

The Ontario government has reminded families who intend to take advantage of these opportunities that, as part of the provincial reopening plan, Step 1 allows for up to ten people to gather outdoors.

You can view all terms and conditions for re-opening Ontario here: https://www.ontario.ca/page/reopening-ontario

Did you know that… Ontario’s recreational fishing industry generates $ 1.75 billion annually. Outside of license-free fishing periods, anyone aged 18 and under 65 must have an Outdoors Card and a fishing license. All veterans and active members of the Canadian Armed Forces living in Ontario can enjoy free recreational fishing in the province whenever and wherever permitted. A valid permit is required for all vehicles in provincial parks, including public holidays. Permits must be visible on all vehicles. The number of admitted vehicles to the parks will be limited to avoid overcrowding.

Pic from pixabay.com