Who We Are
Fishing:
Here in Ontario, anglers enjoy year round world class fishing opportunities. The OFAH, its members and member clubs work tirelessly to promote fishing and to help keep our fisheries healthy.
Conservation:
In 1928, a grass roots alliance of conservationists joined forces to become the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters. Today, we are the province’s largest nonprofit, charitable fish and wildlife conservation organization. Together with our partners, we deliver a broad range of conservation initiatives.
Hunting:
Hunting is an important, time-honored tradition. On behalf of Ontario’s trained and licensed hunters, we advocate for the protection of our hunting heritage and for the sound management of Ontario wildlife.
Our Mission:
As the voice of anglers and hunters, and as a leader in fish and wildlife conservation in the Province of Ontario, the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH) will:
- strive to ensure the protection of our hunting and fishing heritage and the enhancement of hunting and fishing opportunities;
- encourage safe and responsible participation; and
- champion the conservation of Ontario’s fish and wildlife resources, which so enrich our lives.
Our Vision:
- A future that includes healthy lakes and forests, bountiful fish and wildlife, and opportunities for all Ontarians to share our passion for hunting, fishing and conservation.
Conservation Pledge
I give my pledge as a Canadian, to save and faithfully defend from waste, the natural resources of my country, its soils and minerals, its air, water, forests and wildlife.
Our Core Values:
- As the VOICE of anglers and hunters, the OFAH will professionally represent Ontario’s anglers and hunters, their hunting and fishing rights and traditions, and their passion for hunting and fishing and for fish and wildlife conservation.
- The OFAH supports and will seek to enhance Ontario’s rich traditions of hunting and fishing and the quality of life they represent.
- The OFAH will promote, encourage and seek to ensure the conservation of Ontario’s fish and wildlife, their habitats, and the ecosystems that support them, to ensure continuing benefits to anglers and hunters, and by extension, to all of the people in Ontario.
- The OFAH will encourage, conduct and lead proactive fish and wildlife management, individually and in cooperation with others, to ensure the conservation of resources, the protection and enhancement of our hunting and fishing heritage, and the provision of benefits to meet the needs of Ontarians
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH)?
The OFAH is a grassroots, nonprofit, nongovernment, membership based organization – the largest of its kind in Canada – with a mandate to support fish and wildlife conservation and time honored traditions of fishing and hunting.
How many members does the OFAH represent?
The OFAH represents over 100,000 members, subscribers and supporters, and 725 member clubs.
Is the OFAH a government organization?
No. We work cooperatively with the government to deliver specific programs, but when necessary, we confront the government on issues important to our fishing, hunting and conservation mandate.
Does the OFAH set hunting and fishing regulations?
No. Hunting and fishing regulations are set by government. The OFAH provides scientific advice, shares input from our members, and lobbies on their behalf. The sale of additional deer seals, for example, was presented as an OFAH Zone A resolution which was endorsed provincially by MNR scientists.
Is the OFAH a registered Canadian charity?
Yes.
What is the OFAH definition of conservation?
Conservation is the protection, use and management of natural resources to supply benefits at optimal sustainable levels for present and future generations of Canadians.
Does the OFAH invest in projects that support nongame species?
Yes. OFAH projects have benefited a host of nongame species such as trumpeter swans, spotted turtles and barn owls. Naturally, OFAH efforts to restore elk, wild turkey and Atlantic Salmon produce local habitat improvements that benefit many other species.
Why do so many people belong to the OFAH?
Some OFAH members wouldn’t go anywhere without the protection of $5 million in OFAH member fishing and hunting public liability insurance. Some members believe they have a responsibility to always be informed on hunting and fishing issues, which they read about every month in Ontario OUT OF DOORS magazine, and some members enjoy the OFAH member discounts provided by our various Affinity Partners.
Preferences for membership benefits may vary but every OFAH member would agree that hunting and fishing is a way of life that’s worth fighting for – and, that’s what OFAH membership is all about.