Ontario Bass Fishing Season Dates: Opening and Closing Times

Ontario's bass season (Largemouth and Smallmouth) follows a province-wide framework, but exceptions exist by Fisheries Management Zone (FMZ) and specific waterbody.

General Season (Most FMZs)

• Opens: Third Saturday in June (e.g., June 15, 2024; June 21, 2025).
• Closes: Last Sunday in December (e.g., Dec 29, 2024; Dec 28, 2025).

Key Exceptions

• Year-round open: Some FMZs (e.g., parts of FMZ 16, 17, 20) for both species.
• Earlier opening: Some lakes open 1st Saturday in May (e.g., Lake of the Woods, Rainy Lake).
• Catch-and-release only: Certain waters/seasons.
• Size/slot limits: Vary by zone (e.g., 13.75–15.75" slot, or 14" minimum).
• Possession limits: Usually 6 total (combined), but check.

How to Verify for Your Spot

1. Identify your Fisheries Management Zone (FMZ 1–20) via Ontario's Fish ON-Line tool (ontario.ca/fishonline).
2. Download the Ontario Fishing Regulations Summary (free PDF, updated annually).
3. Check the "Exceptions" tables for your FMZ and specific lake/river.

Licensing

Valid Outdoors Card + Fishing License (Conservation or Sport) required for residents/non-residents 18–64. Free for <18 and 65+ (Ontario residents).

Ethical Note

Pre-spawn (spring) targeting of nesting males is legal in some zones but ethically debated. Many anglers voluntarily wait until post-spawn.