Overview

The Learn to Fish program is a free program that teaches new anglers how to fish in Ontario. This fun and engaging 2–hour program combines a 1-hour practical teaching session with one hour of supervised hands-on fishing.

The program will teach you how to:

  • rig, bait and cast a fishing rod
  • identify and catch local fish species
  • get a fishing licence and follow fishing regulations
  • discover more about fishing in Ontario
  • fish safely and sustainably

We provide everything you need, including:

  • experienced instructors focused on fish, fun and safety
  • fishing rod, reel and bait
  • a fishing licence to take part in the Learn to Fish program
  • lifejacket and sunglasses

Where you can learn to fish

We offer the Learn to Fish program 4 to 6 times per week at our host locations from June to late August in various locations across Ontario. Our 2023 locations included:

Learn to Fish program schedule

The Learn to Fish season has ended for 2023. Please check back in June 2024 for next year’s schedule.

Learn to Fish outreach program

Our mobile unit travels to festivals and events across Ontario to introduce new anglers to recreational fishing.

We engage people in fishing through:

  • information videos
  • a build–your–own fishing lure activity

Beginner anglers can talk with experienced staff and take home a wide variety of introductory fishing publications.

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Image of an instructor outdoors pointing to a Fish of Ontario poster on a trailer in front of an audience of participants

How to book the Learn to Fish mobile unit

Our outreach program targets family–friendly events that draw a high percentage of new or non–anglers.

To invite the Learn to Fish mobile unit to your event, contact us.

We will ask you to complete a short event information form to help us learn more about your event. We will assess events based on:

  • whether the event fits with the program requirements and goals
  • our availability

Learn to Fish — Digital

The digital Learn to Fish program helps you navigate this new world of fishing. Follow along as we review all the basics of how to fish with videos, quizzes and other resources like our Learn to Fish Guide.

At the end of this program, you will have the knowledge and confidence to fish on your own.

Follow us on social media @FishWildlifeON for more information.