Fishing in Oregon

Fishing in Oregon is a popular and rewarding activity due to the state's diverse waterways and abundant fish species. Here are some key aspects of fishing in Oregon:

1. Rivers and Streams
   • Columbia River: Known for its salmon, steelhead, and sturgeon fishing.
   • Rogue River: Famous for salmon and steelhead.
   • Deschutes River: Renowned for trout and steelhead.
   • Willamette River: Offers diverse fishing opportunities, including salmon, steelhead, and bass.
2. Lakes and Reservoirs
   • Crater Lake: Known for its deep blue waters and kokanee salmon.
   • Diamond Lake: Popular for rainbow trout.
   • Lake Billy Chinook: Offers kokanee salmon, bass, and trout.
   • Detroit Lake: Known for rainbow trout and kokanee.
3. Coastal Waters
   • Pacific Ocean: Offers deep-sea fishing for salmon, halibut, tuna, and rockfish.
   • Tillamook Bay: Known for chinook salmon, coho salmon, and sturgeon.
   • Newport and Depoe Bay: Popular for charter fishing trips targeting various ocean species.

1. Salmon
   • Types: Chinook (king), coho (silver), sockeye.
   • Seasons: Vary by location and species; generally from spring to fall.
2. Steelhead
   • Types: Winter and summer steelhead.
   • Seasons: Winter steelhead run from November to April; summer steelhead from May to November.
3. Trout
   • Types: Rainbow, brown, brook, and cutthroat trout.
   • Seasons: Year-round in many areas, with peak times in spring and fall.
4. Bass
   • Types: Largemouth and smallmouth bass.
   • Seasons: Spring through fall, with peak times in late spring and early summer.
5. Sturgeon
   • Types: White and green sturgeon.
   • Seasons: Year-round, with specific regulations for retention and catch-and-release.
6. Other Species
   • Walleye: Found in the Columbia River and various reservoirs.
   • Kokanee Salmon: Landlocked sockeye salmon found in lakes.
   • Crappie and Bluegill: Popular in warmer lakes and reservoirs.

1. Licensing
   • Requirements: A valid Oregon fishing license is required for all anglers aged 12 and older.
   • Types: Resident and non-resident licenses, with options for daily, annual, and multi-day licenses.
   • Purchasing: Licenses can be purchased online, at sporting goods stores, and through the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) offices.
2. Permits and Tags
   • Salmon/Steelhead: Additional tags required for fishing salmon and steelhead.
   • Shellfish: Separate permits required for harvesting shellfish like clams and crabs.
3. Seasons and Bag Limits
   • Regulations: Specific to each waterway and species; always check the current ODFW regulations.
   • Catch Limits: Vary by species and location, with special rules for certain protected or endangered species.

1. Fly Fishing
   • Popular for trout and steelhead in rivers like the Deschutes and Rogue.
   • Requires specific gear, including fly rods, reels, and flies.
2. Trolling
   • Effective for salmon and trout in lakes and reservoirs.
   • Involves dragging bait or lures behind a moving boat.
3. Bank Fishing
   • Common along rivers and lakeshores.
   • Techniques include bait fishing, casting lures, and using bobbers.
4. Deep-Sea Fishing
   • Requires chartering a boat for ocean fishing.
   • Target species include salmon, halibut, and tuna.

1. Catch and Release
   • Practice catch and release to help sustain fish populations, especially for native and wild fish.
   • Handle fish carefully to minimize stress and injury.
2. Invasive Species
   • Be mindful of cleaning gear and boats to prevent the spread of invasive species.
   • Follow guidelines for disposing of unwanted bait and fish parts.
3. Respecting Wildlife and Habitats
   • Adhere to regulations protecting habitats and wildlife.
   • Avoid littering and practice Leave No Trace principles.

1. Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW)
   • Primary source for fishing regulations, licensing, and season information.
   • Website: ODFW
2. Fishing Reports and Forecasts
   • Check local fishing reports for up-to-date information on fish activity and conditions.
3. Local Guides and Charters
   • Consider hiring a local guide or charter service for specialized fishing experiences and local knowledge.

By understanding and following these guidelines, anglers can enjoy a successful and sustainable fishing experience in Oregon.