Do You Need a Fishing License on a Charter in Ontario?

In most cases, yes, you do need a fishing licence (or at least a “deemed licence”) to fish on a charter in Ontario. The charter covers the boat, the gear, and usually the know-how, but it doesn’t automatically cover your personal licence requirements.

The keyword there, though, is most — it’s not like everyone has to go out and buy one.

In this blog post, we’ll break down when you need a licence, when you don’t, and give you a quick overview of everything you should bring on a fishing charter.

When You Need a Fishing Licence for Charters in Ontario

Most adults need a licence when fishing in Ontario, but you don’t need anything too extensive for a single charter trip. If you’re between 18 and 64, you can get away with just a one-day sport fishing license valid for the date of your charter.

If you’re planning on going more often, though, it may be worth applying for a 1- or 3-year fishing license and an Outdoors Card, as you’ll need to carry both while fishing. The good news is that you don’t have to go far — it’s easy enough to buy an Ontario fishing license online.

When You Don’t Need a Fishing License for Charters in Ontario

In some cases, you can legally fish without buying a licence because you’re covered by what Ontario calls a “deemed licence.” In other words, certain documents can count in place of purchasing and carrying a licence (and depending on the license, an Outdoors Card).

Generally speaking, you don’t require a fishing license in Ontario if you:

• Are a Canadian resident under 18 or over 65 (but you’ll need a government-issued ID)

• Have an accessible parking permit issued under Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act (those with out-of-province permits can apply for an Ontario one)

• Have a Canadian National Institute for the Blind national identity card

• Are assisting a person with a disability who needs help to fish (but only if assisting — if you’re actually fishing, you’ll still need a license)

• Are an active member or veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (you’ll still need to use either your Canadian Forces Identification Card, Record of Service Card, or Canadian Armed Forces Veteran’s Service Card)

If you don’t want to deal with licenses at all and are a Canadian resident, you can always book a charter on one of four free family fishing weekends.

What to Bring on a Fishing Charter

The license isn’t the only thing you’ll want to bring on your trip. Here are some fishing charter essentials to help make the day go smoothly:

• Fishing license (or your fishing licence summary if your current licence isn’t showing on the card yet, or if you haven’t received your Outdoors Card)

• Outdoors Card (if you have one and your licence is tied to it).

• Government-issued ID (especially important if you’re fishing under an age-based exception like under 18 or 65+).

• Charged phone (or a paper backup) for pictures, or if you’re carrying your licence summary digitally. If your battery dies and you can’t pull it up, that’s on you.

• Sunglasses and sunscreen

• Hat

• Light rain layer or windbreaker (even when the forecast looks fine)

• Gravol or motion-sickness bands if you’re worried about seasickness

• Proper shoes (heels won’t cut it)

With the basics covered, it’s that much easier to concentrate on fishing.

Don’t Let a Missing Licence Ruin Charter Day

Most people need a fishing licence to fish in Ontario, even if they’re heading out with a guide. The main exceptions are covered under Ontario’s deemed-licence situations, and the family fishing dates are another easy option if they line up with your plans. 

The simplest move is to sort out what you need ahead of time, then bring the right proof (Outdoors Card, licence summary PDF, and ID) so there’s no drama at the dock.

Now that you know more about the licensing situation, are you ready to book a fishing charter? If so, we’re happy to have you! Contact Collingwood Charters today.