Message from the Minister
As Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry, I’m pleased to welcome you to a new year of angling in Ontario.
Ontario’s lakes, rivers and streams are home to 128 species of native fish and 17 naturalized species – the highest fish diversity in Canada.
These abundant and varied resources are enjoyed not just by people in Ontario. They attract people from across Canada, the United States and around the world.
The province benefits greatly from its angling opportunities with fishing lodges and unique guided fishing experiences being popular draws that help boost Ontario’s tourism industry.
Whether people come from the other side of the world or live right here in Ontario, angling is a sport that can be enjoyed by so many.
Each year, we offer free fishing periods, centred around Family Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Canada Day. These provide a great opportunity to lure first-time anglers, with the potential of getting hooked on this great outdoor activity.
In addition, Ontario’s Learn to Fish program is a free, 2-hour session offered throughout the summer that teaches children and adults to fish – another perfect opportunity to get a friend or family member into angling.
Ontario’s fisheries also provide important ecological, economic, social and cultural benefits to the province. That is why it’s important that we manage these resources in a sustainable manner, based on scientific research and long-term planning. Proper management of this valuable natural resource will ensure angling can be enjoyed not just today, but for generations to come.
Changes have been made in several Fisheries Management Zones to ensure the long-term sustainability of our fisheries. I encourage you to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations listed in this summary, and to be safe as you discover what makes angling in Ontario so special.
Happy fishing!
The Honourable Graydon Smith
Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry
