 Many people are attracted to fishing because it’s a great way to relax and have fun with family and friends. Residents of Richmond Hill are fortunate to have several waterbodies that offer public access to fishing for a variety of freshwater species.
Guidelines for a Positive Fishing Experience
1. Get Licensed. If you are between the ages of 18-64, then you will need a license in order to fish. There are different kinds of licenses available. For more information, please refer to the Ministry of Natural Resources Website.
2. Do Not Encroach. Fishing sites are located on public lands; however, in some instances the distinction of public and private land may not be clearly evident. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are accessing public lands only. In Richmond Hill, residents can fish in most bodies of water on public land except the following locations (or where signs have been posted):
Lake St. George
Phyllis Rawlinson Park
Bond Lake
Phillips Lake
Lake Wilcox Fish and Wildlife Sanctuary
3. Learn the Fundamental Rules and Regulations. For some fish, the Ministry assigns closed and open season and also limits on the quantity of possession. Since there are many different types of fish, you should learn how to identify what you catch. To learn more about fishing regulations as well as identification chart, please refer to Recreational Fishing Regulations Summary on the Ministry of Natural Resources Website.
4. Know What you can and cannot eat. The Ministry of Environment publishes a Guide to Eating Ontario Sportfish, where it gives consumption advice for some species based on contaminant testing program. A copy of this guide can be found online or by calling 1-800-820-2716.
5. Be Considerate, Have fun and Stay Safe.
Respect other anglers beside you by not crowding the area.
Don’t litter. Deposit old fishing lines in proper garbage cans, don’t leave hooks around, and do not release bait.
Don’t snag.
Exercise caution when fishing near flowing water.
For more information, contact the Ministry of Natural Resources.
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