Fishing can be a memorable part of a Lake Erie getaway, and a little preparation helps you spend less time sorting out paperwork at the water. Use this checklist before travelling to Maitland Shores Resort or another nearby launch point. Rules can vary by waterbody, species, season and licence type, so always verify the current Ontario regulations for the place you plan to fish.
1. Check which fishing licence you need
Ontario says most people need a recreational fishing licence or a deemed licence to fish legally. The province offers sport and conservation licences, which have different catch and possession limits. Check the current rules and fees before buying; do not assume that someone in your group is exempt.
Read Ontario’s current licence requirements and fees.
2. Carry the right licence documents
If you buy a licence other than a one-day licence, Ontario requires you to carry your Outdoors Card while fishing. You also need your licence summary if your current licence is not listed on the card or you have not received the card yet. Ontario allows the official licence summary as a printed copy or as the PDF on a mobile device; a photo or screenshot of the summary does not count. Keep your phone charged and consider carrying a paper copy as a backup.
3. Look up the rules for the exact water
Before you choose a spot, use Ontario’s 2026 Fishing Regulations Summary to identify the Fisheries Management Zone and check the rules for the particular waterbody and species. Review open seasons, size limits, daily catch and possession limits, and any waterbody-specific exceptions. A general Lake Erie guide may not cover every rule that applies to a specific location.
Open the 2026 Ontario Fishing Regulations Summary and see Ontario’s guide to using it. The province notes that the summary is a convenient reference, not a complete legal document, so check for current notices and the applicable law if you need a definitive answer.
4. Plan the practical details before leaving
- Save the official regulations and licence information where you can access them without a strong mobile signal.
- Check the forecast and local conditions before heading out on the water.
- If you plan to use the resort’s marina or boat launch, contact Maitland Shores ahead of your visit to confirm current access details.
Maitland Shores Resort is in Port Maitland, Dunnville, near Lake Erie. For resort information, visit our fishing page or boat launch page. Check Ontario’s latest rules each time you plan a trip, since regulations can change.