Published on 24 September, 2024
They say that "Good things grow in Ontario", and we like to believe they're talking about fish! But before you load up your tackle box and head to the water, it's important to understand the Ontario Fishing Regulations, specifically the differences between catch limits and possession limits. We get it, the regulations can be fuzzy on this stuff, but trust us, this is as essential to your next trip to the lake as your favorite Dipstick Colour!
What Are Catch Limits?
Catch limits refer to the maximum number of fish you are allowed to catch in a single day. This rule is in place to ensure that fish populations remain healthy and sustainable for future generations of anglers. Catch limits vary depending on the species and the waterbody you're fishing in, so it's important to check the Ontario Fishing Regulations Summary for your Fishing Management Zone (FMZ), AND be aware of any differences specific to your body of water, before heading out. For example, the catch limit for Largemouth Bass is almost certainly different from that of walleye or panfish.
Imagine catch limits like the speed limit on a highway—there to keep things safe and in check. If the sign says you can only harvest six bass per day, that's all you're allowed to take home, even if the fish are practically jumping into your boat. Once you hit that limit, it’s time to stop fishing for that species or start practicing your catch, photo, release skills.
What Are Possession Limits?
Now, possession limits are where things get a bit more tricky. A possession limit is the maximum number of fish you can have in your possession at any one time. This includes not just the fish you’ve caught today, but also any fish you have in your freezer back home, on ice in your cooler, or stored at your cottage.
Think of possession limits as a cumulative total. If you're spending a weekend at your honey hole and you catch your daily limit each day, you need to make sure that the total number of fish you have doesn't exceed the possession limit. For example, if the possession limit for walleye is four, and you caught two yesterday and two today, you can't harvest any more walleye until you've consumed some of your catch or given it away (in line with the regulations, of course).
Why the Difference Matters
Understanding the difference between these two limits is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it helps conserve fish populations and supports sustainable fishing practices. Secondly, following these rules ensures you're fishing legally, which means you can avoid hefty fines, or even worse— losing your fishing privileges altogether! Whether or not you agree with the regulations, you are still legally obligated to abide by them.
Let’s break it down with a scenario: You’re fishing for Yellow Perch on Lake Simcoe, which is in Fishing Management Zone 16 and has a Waterbody Exception specific to Perch where the daily catch limit is fifty, and the possession limit is one hundred. On day one, you harvest fifty Perch and keep them. You decide to fish again the next day. If you catch and harvest another fifty , you’re at the possession limit of one hundred. That means you can't keep any more Yellow Perch until you consume, gift, or otherwise legally reduce the number of fish in your possession.
How to Keep Track
Keeping track of your catches and possession can be tricky, especially if you’re on a multi-day fishing trip. Here are a few tips to make sure you stay on the right side of the law:
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Know Your Limits: Always check the Ontario Fishing Regulations for the FMZ and any specific regulations for the waterbody you're fishing. Regulations can change, so it’s essential to have the most up-to-date information.
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Keep a Log: Recording your catches each day can help you keep track of how many fish you have caught and how many are in your possession.
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Plan Your Meals: If you plan to fish multiple days, consider cooking some of your catch to reduce the number of fish in your possession.
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Share the Wealth: If you’re fishing with friends or family, remember that possession limits are per individual Ontario Fishing License holder. Make sure everyone is aware of the rules and divide the catch accordingly.
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Practice Selective Harvest and Ethical Fishing: If you're not familiar with these concepts, we have a whole guide about it here, so we won't get into the nitty gritty but we will mention this: Limit your catch, don't catch your limit. That is to say, unless you can consume your limit in a reasonable time, don't harvest your limit every time. There's nothing worse than having to throw out freezer burned fillets after they had spent months in your fridge.
Final Cast
Ontario is home to world class fishing opportunities, but with great fishing comes great responsibility. Understanding the difference between catch limits and possession limits helps ensure that you’re doing your part to preserve these natural resources for future anglers. Plus, it keeps you out of trouble with the law, which means more time to enjoy our lakes with your line in the water.
So, the next time you’re out on the lake, remember: Know your limit and fish within it!