Not much is free where the government is concerned, but this Father's Day weekend you can enjoy tossing a line in at no cost.
Fishing is a popular activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, making it an excellent opportunity for families to spend quality time together while reaping numerous health benefits.
“Fishing is a great family pastime,” said Graydon Smith, Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry. “With fishing being free this Father’s Day weekend, it’s a great time to get out on one of Ontario’s lakes or rivers and enjoy this wonderful sport.”
Right now, you can fish for many species, including yellow perch, common carp, northern pike, lake trout and walleye. Be sure to follow all limits on how many fish you can keep and some waterbodies have exceptions. More information is available in the Fishing Regulations Summary.
Fishing with your family can provide numerous health benefits, both physically and mentally. It's an enjoyable and rewarding way to spend time together while also promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.
Here are some of the advantages of fishing with your family:
1. Physical activity: Fishing involves physical activity such as launching a boat, walking, casting, and reeling, which can help improve cardiovascular health, build muscle strength, and increase endurance.
2. Stress relief: Spending time in nature is a great way to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Fishing can provide a peaceful and relaxing environment that can help calm the mind and increase overall well-being.
3. Vitamin D: Fishing is an outdoor activity that exposes individuals to sunlight, which is a natural source of vitamin D. This vitamin is essential for strong bones and teeth, as well as overall immune system health.
4. Improved nutrition: Fishing provides access to fresh, healthy food options such as fish, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and other essential nutrients. Eating fish can help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health conditions.
5. Bonding and communication: Fishing provides an opportunity for families to bond and communicate with each other. This can help strengthen relationships and improve overall family dynamics.
6. Mental stimulation: Fishing requires problem-solving skills, such as selecting the right bait and finding the best fishing spot. This can help improve cognitive function, especially in children.
If you are fishing for free during this period, you must follow all conservation license catch limits and carry ID issued by the provincial or federal government, showing your name and date of birth.
Remember to bring any trash back to shore and properly dispose of it.
To celebrate Canada Day next month, you can fish for free during Family Fishing Week (July 1-9).
Approximately 1.2 million licensed anglers spend $1.75 billion each year on recreational fishing in Ontario.