The next time you’re fishing on the St. Lawrence River, you might notice some American boats in Canadian waters.
Michael Barrett, the MP for Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes, says border restrictions are loosening to allow American boaters to cross into our portion of the river without reporting to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).
Barrett says the rules also cover Lake Ontario.
Per the new regulations, American vessels out for recreation or tourism can enter those Canadian waters and leave without reporting to CBSA, as long as they don’t land in Canada, anchor, moor, or move alongside another boat while they’re there. This includes boaters from the U.S. who aren’t vaccinated against COVID-19.
According to Barrett, the new rules came about from a partnership with New York State Assemblyman Mark Walczyk, who says he’s glad to see the change.
“The mighty St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario are home to some of the best fishing you’ll find anywhere and are unquestionably a cornerstone of the region’s tourism economy,” Walczyk says. “I’d like to sincerely thank MP Barrett for working with me to deliver clarity on boating in our shared waterways.”
Americans who plan to set foot in Canada still need to report to CBSA and follow COVID-19 regulations. To see a full breakdown of the rules, visit the CBSA website.