We’ve been waiting a long time for this. Over two years to be exact. We’re happy to report that Fisheries and Oceans Canada has released the 2015 Survey of Recreational Fishing in Canada. While it’s important to keep in mind that this survey only takes into account fishing licence holders — and thereby discounts seniors, First Nations, members of the military, and anglers under the required age — the stats show that fishing is alive and well in Canada.

We’ll be analyzing the numbers over the next few weeks, but we thought we’d share a few highlights. You can view the completed report online or download a PDF.

Survey of Recreational Fishing in Canada: 3.2 million adult anglers actively participated in a variety of fishing activities in 2015.
Survey of Recreational Fishing in Canada: 3.2 million adult anglers actively participated in a variety of fishing activities in 2015.
Survey of Recreational Fishing in Canada: On average, Canadians fished more days in 2015 than five years earlier. The average number of days fished per angler was 15 days in 2015 compared with 13 days in 2010.
Survey of Recreational Fishing in Canada: On average, Canadians fished more days in 2015 than five years earlier. The average number of days fished per angler was 15 days in 2015 compared with 13 days in 2010. 
Survey of Recreational Fishing in Canada: Ontario and Quebec lead the way, accounting for 53% of all active anglers. There were 754,617 active anglers in Ontario and 652,919 active anglers in Quebec. However, these numbers are lower than in 2010.
Survey of Recreational Fishing in Canada: Ontario and Quebec lead the way, accounting for 53% of all active anglers. There were 754,617 active anglers in Ontario and 652,919 active anglers in Quebec. However, these numbers are lower than in 2010.
Survey of Recreational Fishing in Canada: 7.9 billion dollars was contributed to various local economies through fishing.
Survey of Recreational Fishing in Canada: 7.9 billion dollars was contributed to various local economies through fishing.