PEMBROKE — The Ontario government is doubling the length of free family fishing in Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke, providing families with an affordable and low-risk exploration of Ontario’s world-class lakes, rivers and streams while supporting the province’s tourism industry.
This year, Ontario residents of all ages can enjoy fishing in Ontario without having to purchase a license or carry an Outdoors Card for the first two full weeks of July, from July 4 to 19.
“The COVID-19 outbreak has made things challenging for everyone this year, and this is why it’s especially important that we provide families with a low-risk way to spend quality time outdoors,” said John Yakabuski, Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry and MPP for Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke. “We’re counting on people to be responsible when enjoying free fishing and to continue to follow all of the public health measures to help stop the spread of COVID-19.”
Anglers spend more than $1.6 billion annually in Ontario and support jobs in many rural and northern communities that depend on it.
“Extending Family Fishing Week will support our local businesses that have been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak,” said Minister Yakabuski. “As we gradually and safely reopen our economy, our government is committed to supporting our fishing and tourism sectors through the economic recovery ahead.”
