How to Get Your Ontario Fishing License
Disclaimer: Cat Island Lodge does not issue, sell, or process Ontario fishing licenses, and we cannot purchase them on your behalf. If you need help with a purchase, account issue, or licensing question, use the official Ontario licensing resources rather than calling the lodge. Cat Island Lodge is an independent fishing lodge and cannot issue or manage licenses.
Planning a fly-in fishing trip to Ontario, Canada? Before you pack your tackle box and dream of landing that trophy walleye, you’ll need to secure an Ontario fishing license. This guide walks you through what’s required- whether you’re a Canadian resident or visiting from the U.S. or abroad—so your adventure on Trout Lake is both legal and unforgettable.
Who Needs a Fishing License in Ontario?
In most cases, anyone aged 18–64 must have:
An Outdoors Card
A valid fishing license (Sport or Conservation)
These two components are required whether you're fishing solo or with a guided trip. Special exemptions apply to residents under 18 or over 65, Canadian Armed Forces members, and some individuals with disabilities.
Non-Residents: What You Need to Know
If you’re visiting from outside Ontario or Canada, here’s what you need:
You don’t need an Outdoors Card if you plan to fish for a single day, a one-day sport fishing licence will suffice. If you plan to fish more than 1 day, you will need an Outdoors Card.
You also need an Ontario non-resident fishing license.
License Options for Non-Residents:
1-Day License
8-Day License
Annual License (valid from Jan 1–Dec 31 of the year purchased)
You’ll also need to choose between:
Sport License – Full catch and possession limits
Conservation License – Lower limits; ideal for catch-and-release trips
Non-residents under 18 may fish without a license if accompanied by a licensed adult. However, their catch counts toward that adult’s limit.
How to Buy Your non-resident License
You can purchase your non-resident license in several ways:
Online from Hunt & Fish Ontario at https://www.huntandfishontario.com/
Online through the Government of Ontario at https://www.ontario.ca/page/fishing then select Non-residents of Canada.
In Person: At select retail stores or ServiceOntario locations (if arriving early in your trip). To find a list of verified issuers, you can visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/hunting-and-fishing-licence-issuers
Cat Island Lodge recommends purchasing online in advance to streamline your arrival. If you need help with a purchase, account issue, or licensing question, use the official Ontario licensing resources rather than calling the lodge. Cat Island Lodge is an independent fishing lodge and cannot help issue or manage licenses.
If you need help, you can visit the following websites for contact information at the links below:
Ontario Fish & Wildlife (Official Contact Page): https://www.huntandfishontario.com/Home/ContactUs
Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (Official Contact Page): https://www.ontario.ca/feedback/contact-us?id=26930&nid=53869
Fishing Zone and Rules
Cat Island Lodge is located in Fisheries Management Zone 4, which covers much of Northwestern Ontario.
Be sure to review:
Catch limits
Open seasons
Bait and tackle regulations
Access the current Ontario Fishing Regulations Summary for up-to-date rules specific to Zone 4.
Pro Tips Before You Go
Buy your license early to avoid delays when you arrive.
Double-check which license type best fits your goals (Conservation for light fishing, Sport for full limits).
Print or save a digital copy of your license- it must be accessible while fishing.
Ready to Reel In the Adventure?
Once your Ontario fishing license is taken care of, the rest of your trip becomes simple. From travel logistics to fishing gear and expert guidance, Cat Island Lodge offers a seamless, all-inclusive fly-in fishing experience in Trout Lake, Ontario.
Ready to start planning your adventure? Explore our fly-in fishing packages to learn more about what’s included and how to book your stay.
Disclaimer: Cat Island Lodge does not issue, sell, or process Ontario fishing licenses, and we cannot purchase them on your behalf. If you need help with a purchase, account issue, or licensing question, use the official Ontario licensing resources rather than calling the lodge. Cat Island Lodge is an independent fishing lodge and cannot issue or manage licenses.
