Learn to Fish at Tommy Thompson Park

The Government of Ontario’s Learn to Fish program teaches people the art of angling in a way that aligns with conservation ideals.

Instructors introduce equipment and how to use it properly, and impart the lessons of sustainable fishing through the practice of catch-and-release.

This approach allows for the enjoyment of fishing, while at the same time supporting the goal of conserving and protecting fish populations.

Learn to Fish classes are offered throughout the summer at TRCA’s Heart Lake Conservation Park (10818 Heart Lake Road, Brampton) and Tommy Thompson Park (1 Leslie Street, Toronto).

All required equipment will be provided. Participants are able to fish on the day of their event without a license but must follow all Ontario fishing regulations.

Program Information

• Participation in the program is free and equipment is provided.
• Sessions run rain or shine, but are subject to cancellation.
• Maximum participation per session is 30 people.
• The recommended age for participation is 6 and up.
• The program runs a full two hours and is not a drop-in program. Please be sure to arrive five minutes prior to your scheduled program time to ensure check-in. Participants who arrive late MAY be denied access to the program due to health and safety considerations.
  
  
  Please make sure to review this event page for event details, FAQs, and important information prior to your event.

Location: Tommy Thompson Park, 1 Leslie St Toronto

Meeting Location: Please meet at the front entrance pavilion located beside the parking lot. Look for the Learn to Fish flag

Parking: Limited free parking is available in the front entrance parking lot

Washrooms: Washrooms are available at the front entrance pavilion

Please make sure to arrive 10 minutes before the start time of your session to ensure adequate time to sign in.

What to bring:

• Sunglasses (Sunglasses are required for ages 18 and younger)
• Closed toe shoes
• Water Bottle
• Hat and Sunscreen

All fishing equipment will be provided. Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs) are required for participants who are 18 and under. PFDs will be provided during the program. Should an adult wish to borrow a PFD please let the staff know.

Agenda:

1 hr - Dry land lesson

15 minutes - Walk to fishing site

1 hr - Fishing activity

FAQ

Where can I park my vehicle? Is parking free?

A free, public parking lot is available at the main entrance of Tommy Thompson Park, located at 1 Leslie St at the corner of Leslie St and Unwin Ave. If the lot is full, street parking is available along Unwin Ave and along Leslie St.

Where are we supposed to meet?

Keep an eye out for our blue Learn to Fish flags located near the main entrance pavilion, where you can meet your event leader. Please arrive a few minutes early to ensure you have enough time to check-in with your leader and use the on-site washroom facilities.

Help! I arrived late and there is no one at the meeting location!

If you arrive late and no one is at the pavilion, the group has likely made their way to the next location. Please walk 5-7 mins down the main trail until you reach the Nature Centre. If no one is there, the fishing portion has started and we kindly ask that you register for another session.

The session I want is sold out! Do you take walk-ins?

Yes, we can occasionally accommodate some walk-ins. Availability will be based on how many pre-registered guests arrive late or miss their session. We cannot guarantee that all walk-ins will be accommodated.

Do I need to bring any equipment?

No, all equipment for this program will be provided. We only ask that you are dressed for the weather and come prepared with a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle.

My question isn't answered here.

If you have additional questions, please contact the program coordinator at learntofish@trca.ca.