How to Buy an Ontario Ice Fishing Licence Online

Ontario Ice Fishing Licence Guide

Requirements for Ice Fishing in Ontario:

Fishing Licence: Anyone wishing to ice fish in Ontario must possess a valid fishing licence. This can be either a sport or conservation licence.

Adherence to Rules: All ice fishers must comply with the rules outlined in the Recreational Fishing Regulations Summary. This includes observing local open and closed seasons, possession limits, and size restrictions.

Ice Hut Registration: If you’re fishing within Fisheries Management Zones (FMZ) 9-12 and 14-20, you must register your ice hut. Additionally, the registration number should be prominently displayed on the hut’s exterior.

Ice Hut Removal: Depending on the hut’s location, there’s a specific date by which it must be removed.

Fishing Seasons:
Ontario doesn’t have separate ice fishing seasons. Instead, fishing seasons are determined by the species, and whether you fish from a boat, shore, or ice depends on local conditions during that species’ open/closed season. For detailed information on fishing seasons, consult the Recreational Fishing Regulations Summary.

Ice Fishing Lines:

In most Ontario waters, anglers can use two lines for ice fishing, provided:

• They remain within 60 metres of any line or tip-up.
• They maintain a clear and unobstructed view of their lines.
• However, devices with a mechanical spring for setting the fishing hook (excluding tensioned fishing rods) are prohibited within 30 metres of any waters.

Ice Hut Registration Details:
Ice huts in FMZs 9-12 and 14-20 must be registered if:

They’re constructed from materials other than fabric.

They’re fabric tents covering 7 m^2 or more when erected.

Purchasing Fishing Licences:
Fishing licences can be acquired:

Online via the Fish and Wildlife Licensing Service.

From a licence issuer.

At participating ServiceOntario locations.
Through an automated telephone service at 1-800-288-1155 (for 3-year fishing licences) when renewing your Outdoors Card.

Special Considerations for Certain Age Groups:

18 and Over or Under 65: These individuals need a valid Outdoors Card and a fishing licence (either conservation or sport).
Under 18 or 65 and Older: These age groups don’t require an Outdoors Card or licence. However, they must carry government-issued ID, which serves as their fishing licence.