What to know
- Ontario residents can fish without purchasing a fishing licence or Outdoors Card during the Canada Day week promotion.
- You’ll need identification showing your name and date of birth while participating in the free fishing period.
- Catch limits, size restrictions, seasonal closures and other Ontario fishing regulations remain in effect during the free fishing period.
- Popular locations include the Toronto Islands, Grenadier Pond, Humber Bay Park West and Biidaasige Park.
Have you ever wanted to try fishing without committing to buying a licence first? This is your chance to!
To celebrate Canada Day, Ontario is once again offering free fishing across the province, giving residents and visitors the opportunity to fish without purchasing a fishing licence or Outdoors Card from June 27 to July 5.
“Whether you’re a lifelong angler or casting a line for the very first time, our government is making it easier and more convenient to enjoy all that Ontario’s world-class fishing has to offer,” Mike Harris, Minister of Natural Resources, said in a news release.
“With free fishing available across the province, Canada Day week is the perfect time to get outdoors, spend time with family and friends, and create lasting memories on the water.”
If you’re planning a family outing, looking for a quiet way to spend a summer afternoon or hoping to reel in a nice catch, there are plenty of places around Toronto where you can cast a line.
While a fishing licence isn’t required during the free fishing period, those who want to participate still need to follow Ontario’s fishing regulations, including conservation catch and size limits, fishing sanctuaries and seasonal rules. Anyone taking part should also carry government-issued identification showing their name and date of birth.
Beginners who don’t own fishing equipment can borrow rods and reels through Ontario’s TackleShare program or learn the basics through the Learn to Fish resources.
Here are some of the best places to fish in and around Toronto this week.
Toronto Islands
Location: 9 Queens Quay West, Toronto
A quick ferry ride takes you to one of the most peaceful fishing spots in the city. The lagoons, canals, and Lake Ontario shoreline around the islands are home to several species of fish, including the rare opportunity to catch walleye within Toronto city limits. The car-free setting also makes it a relaxing day trip.
G. Ross Lord Park
Location: 4801 Dufferin St., North York
If you’d rather stay away from the business of the city, this North York park offers fishing along a reservoir in the West Don River watershed. It’s a quieter option with walking trails, bird-watching opportunities and plenty of green space nearby.
Harbourfront Centre
Location: 235 Queens Quay West, Toronto
You don’t have to leave downtown to enjoy a day of fishing. Designated fishing areas around the Harbourfront Centre offer one of the city’s most accessible places to cast a line, all within walking distance of Union Station and the waterfront.
Biidaasige Park
Location: 51 Commissioners Street, Toronto
One of Toronto’s newest waterfront parks is already becoming a favourite for nature lovers alike. Located where the Don River meets Lake Ontario, the park offers several fishing access points surrounded by restored wetlands and natural habitat. It’s also one of the city’s most ecologically diverse areas.
Joe Benesh Pond
Location: 256 Centennial Park Rd., Etobicoke
New to fishing? Joe Benesh Pond in Centennial Park is one of the best places to start. The small pond is easy to access and especially popular with families introducing kids to fishing for the first time.
Grenadier Pond
Location: 1873 Bloor St. West, Toronto
Nestled inside High Park, this remains one of Toronto’s best-known urban fishing spots. It’s especially popular with beginners thanks to its easy access and calm waters, while nearby trails, restaurants and picnic areas make it easy to spend the afternoon.
Humber Bay Park West
Location: 225 Humber Bay Park Road West, Etobicoke
Known for its skyline views, Humber Bay Park West is also a productive fishing destination throughout the year. Its location near the mouths of Mimico Creek and the Humber River attracts a wide variety of fish like salmon, rainbow trout, and rock bass, making it a favourite among local fishers.
