Licence to transport live fish

Laws and rules

You need a licence to transport live fish or spawn (excluding baitfish) taken from Ontario waters. For example, you need this licence to:

• run a competitive fishing event
• operate a live-release boat
• take fish to off-site weigh-ins for a competitive fishing event

These regulations protect Ontario fisheries by preventing:

• the unauthorized introduction of native species into new waters
• the spread of invasive fish species, fish parasites and fish diseases

What you need

While you are transporting fish, you need to carry a:

• licence to transport live fish
• licence to take or capture fish (e.g., a recreational fishing licence)

When you don’t need a licence

You don’t need a licence to transport live fish if you have cultured, caught, bought or sold the fish under one of these licences:

• aquaculture licence
• licence to collect fish for aquaculture
• licence to collect fish for scientific purposes
• commercial fishing licence
• commercial bait licence
• licence to stock fish

How to apply

1. To get a licence to transport live fish:
   • submit your application online using the Natural Resources Information Portal, or download the licence application form and submit the form and your supporting documents to the ministry work centre closest to you
2. to operate a live release boat for a competitive fishing event or for all other purposes:
   • mail or email the form to your local ministry work centre