How to Take Kids Fishing in Oregon: A Guide to Free Fishing Days, Youth Licenses, and Family-Friendly Locations

Are you looking for ways to introduce your children or grandchildren to the joys of fishing in Oregon? The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has made it easy and affordable for families to enjoy this outdoor activity together. From free fishing days to affordable youth licenses and well-stocked, family-friendly fishing locations, ODFW has created numerous opportunities for kids to experience the thrill of catching their first fish.

Free Fishing Days in Oregon

One of the most exciting events for families is Oregon’s Free Fishing Days. In 2024, there are three weekends when no licenses or tags are required to fish, crab, or clam anywhere in Oregon:

February 17-18 (Saturday & Sunday), President’s Day Weekend
June 1-2 (Saturday & Sunday)
November 29-30 (Friday & Saturday), Thanksgiving Weekend

This is the perfect opportunity to take your kids fishing without the added expense of licenses. All other regulations, such as area closures and bag limits, still apply.

Youth Fishing Licenses in Oregon

For those who want to fish outside of the Free Fishing Days, ODFW offers affordable youth licenses:

Kids 11 years or younger don’t need a license.
Youth 12 to 17 years need a $10 Combined Annual License (12-17 years old) (includes fishing, hunting and shellfish licenses, and a Columbia River Basin Endorsement).

These licenses make it easy and affordable for families to enjoy fishing together throughout the year.

Family Fishing Events

If you’re not sure you’re ready to take the kids fishing, ODFW’s free Family Fishing Events are the perfect way to learn together:

At these events, ODFW staff and volunteers will teach you everything you need to know, from baiting the hook to casting the rod and reeling in fish.
Rods, reels, and tackle are provided for you to use for the day.
Event locations are stocked with rainbow trout, so there will be plenty of fish to catch.
The calendar of Family Fishing events is posted in April or May each year.

These events are a great way to gain confidence and skills before embarking on your own fishing adventures.

Youth-Only Fishing Ponds

In addition to Free Fishing Days and Family Fishing Events, ODFW has designated several youth-only fishing ponds across the state:

Northwest Zone: Cedar Creek Hatchery deadline to marker located downstream of Gauldy Mtn. Road Bridge, open to youth June 1- July 15
Willamette Zone:
Canby Pond (Canby Community Park)
Small Fry Lake (Promontory Park)
Central Zone:
Jefferson County Pond (easy drive from Bend)
Prineville Youth Pond
Shevlin Pond (Shevlin Park)

These ponds are open to youngsters ages 17 and under, as well as persons with disabilities who possess a current Oregon Disabilities Hunting and Fishing License.

Family-Friendly Fishing Locations

Beyond youth-only ponds, ODFW has identified a host of family-friendly fishing locations throughout the state:

These locations have simple regulations, are regularly stocked with trout, offer good bank access and creature comforts (restrooms, picnic tables, etc.), and are convenient to major towns or cities.
You can find a list of these family-friendly fishing locations in the “Easy Angling Oregon” article series.

These locations make it easy for families to enjoy a day of fishing together, with all the amenities needed for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Tips for Taking Kids Fishing

When taking kids fishing, it’s important to make it an adventure and allow time for free play:

Depending on their age, allow time and give permission for wading in the water, skipping stones, catching frogs, or some other form of free play.
This is not time wasted; it’s an investment in the future by creating a fun experience.

By following these tips and taking advantage of the resources provided by ODFW, families can create lasting memories and instill a love for fishing in their children and grandchildren.