MNR Regulations for Gear

Hooks and Lines

An angler may use only one line, except for ice fishing, or unless otherwise stated.

A fishing line must not have more than four hooks. On an artificial lure, a gang containing up to three hooks is considered to be one hook. In all other situations, a double hook counts as two hooks; and a treble hook counts as three hooks. DO NOT discard old fishing line in or near water. MNR suggests taking to tackle shops for recycling.

Barbless Hooks

In most waters where barbless hooks are required, a line must have no more than one barbless hook attached to it. Any extra hooks must be removed from lures. A barbless hook means a hook that was made without a barb or has had its barb, either completely removed, or compressed so that it is completely in contact with the shaft of the hook.

Artificial Lures

In some waters, artificial lures are required. An artificial lure means a hook or lure with no organic bait attached.

Artificial Flies

An artificial fly means a single or double hook dressed with silk, tinsel, wool, fur, feathers or other such material. It does not include a weight or a spinning device.

Lead

Lead is a toxic substance, which can be found in some fishing sinkers, jigs, and other lures. Some waterfowl, such as puddle ducks, geese, or swans swallow lead when they scoop up pebbles from the bottom of a lake or river to help grind their food. Other diving ducks or loons, can swallow lead when they eat fish with sinkers or jigs attached. When ingested, it can cause lead posioning. You can help...purchase non-toxic sinkers and jigs made from clay, tin, bismuth, steel, or special putty; never throw old fishing gear into the water or on shore; take lead sinkers, jigs, and lures to hazardous waste disposal centers. Note: It is illegal to use or possess lead fishing sinkers or jigs in Canada's national parks and wildlife areas.