Celebrate Dad with Licence-Free Fishing and Family Fun
Looking for a unique, low-cost way to celebrate Father's Day this year? Good news! Many provinces across Canada offer licence-free fishing weekends in June and July, making it the perfect chance to head outdoors, enjoy nature, and spend quality time with Dad. Whether he’s a seasoned angler or just enjoys casting a line once in a while, these opportunities are a great way to bond and reel in memories.
Here’s your 2025 guide to where and how to enjoy free fishing on Father’s Day weekend in Canada.
What is Licence-Free Fishing?
Licence-free fishing means that Canadian residents can fish without buying a licence during specific dates set by the province or territory they live in. However, all other regulations (like size limits and catch restrictions) still apply.
Always check the local regulations before heading out: Provincial and Territorial Fishing Regulations.
Where to Fish for Free on Father’s Day Weekend in Canada
Ontario – June 14–15, 2025
Ontario offers a free family fishing weekend for Father’s Day. No fishing licence needed for residents. Great locations include Algonquin Park, Lake Simcoe, and Kawartha Lakes. See more information here.
British Columbia – June 13-15, 2025
Celebrate with BC’s Family Fishing Weekend on Fathers Day weekend, which allows licence-free freshwater fishing for residents. Don’t miss local community events and activities! Top locations include Shuswap Lake, Fraser River, and Cultus Lake.
Where to Fish for Free on Other Weekends in Canada
Although the Free Fishing Weekend for Manitoba, Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia residents doesn’t fall on Father's Day weekend you can still book the time to fish together in June without a licence in these provinces on these dates:
Yukon – July 4–7, 2025
Although the Free Fishing Weekend for Yukon residents doesn’t fall on Father's Day weekend you can still book the time to fish together in July without a licence. Explore the Yukon River or Lake Laberge for some peaceful, scenic angling.
Alberta – July 12–13, 2025
Alberta's free fishing weekend doesn’t fall over Father’s Day. Residents and visitors can fish without a licence in most public waters. Consider spots like Sylvan Lake, Lesser Slave Lake, or the Bow River. More information here
Saskatchewan – July 12–13, 2025
Saskatchewan’s free fishing weekend doesn’t fall over Father’s Day.
(Note: Check each province’s website for exact regulations, as some exclusions may apply.)
✅ What to Pack for a Father’s Day Fishing Trip
- Rod & reel (matched to the species)
- Your favourite Lucky Bug Tackle, pliers, extra hooks, and line
- Cooler with snacks and cold drinks
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, UV shirt)
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Fishing licence (if required outside free fishing days)
And if you’re going for the early morning bite, grab a bag of beans from your favourite local roaster (our fave is Heights Coffee) and brew up some coffee to take with you! Your dad will be grateful for the morning lift!
Oh, and don’t forget a few cold ones for Dad – nothing says Father’s Day like fishing and a beer by the lake.
🧰 Gear Up Before You Go
Make the most of your trip with Lucky Bug's top-performing gear:
🎯 Ultimate Trout Gift Set: Packed with our best-selling trout lures – perfect for lakes and rivers across Canada.
🐟 Ultimate Pike Gift Set: Powerful lure combos curated for serious pike hunters.
🌶️ Beer-Battered Trout Tacos Recipe with Salsa Picante: Catch it, cook it, and celebrate with our Mexican-inspired recipe that turns your fresh catch into a fiesta.
👨👧 Bonus: Other Ways to Celebrate Dad Outdoors
- Plan a full-day picnic at the lake or river
- Rent a canoe or kayak for a new fishing experience
- Let the kids design “fishing licences” for fun
- End the day with a campfire and fresh grilled catch
🎉 Make This Father’s Day One to Remember
Father’s Day fishing in Canada is more than just a free weekend—it’s a chance to share laughs, land a few catches, and create stories that last. Whether you're teaching the kids to fish, enjoying a quiet morning with Dad or a father figure in your life, or simply exploring Canada’s stunning waters, don’t miss the chance to cast a line.
📸 Don’t forget to tag us in your fishing photos: @LuckyBugLures on Instagram and Facebook.
Tight lines and happy Father’s Day from all of us at Lucky Bug!
