Free fishing is offered in Ontario this Family Day long weekend

Ontario is waiving licence requirements for Family Day long weekend fishing from Feb. 14–16, 2026; conservation catch limits and sanctuary restrictions remain in effect.

Ontario is offering free fishing during the Family Day long weekend, with no licence or Outdoors Card required from Feb. 14 through Feb. 16, 2026. The announcement presents the break as an opportunity for families to spend time outdoors and try ice fishing. Mike Harris, the province's Minister of Natural Resources, said the weekend is a good time for both experienced anglers and first-timers to make memories. The provincial news release also noted that conservation licence catch and possession limits and sanctuary restrictions continue to apply. Key details: - Free family fishing runs Feb. 14–16, 2026. - No fishing licence or Outdoors Card is required during that period. - Conservation Fishing Licence catch and possession limits remain in effect. - Restrictions in sanctuaries and other fishing regulations remain in effect. - The government’s release reported advice to check ice thickness and to tell someone where you will be fishing and when you plan to return. - Mike Harris, Minister of Natural Resources, described Family Day weekend as a good time for families to enjoy ice fishing. Summary: The three-day free fishing window runs Feb. 14–16 and retains existing regulatory limits and sanctuary rules. Officials also included safety and procedural reminders in the announcement. Undetermined at this time.