If you plan to go fishing in the beautiful state of Oregon in 2024, it’s important to understand the licensing requirements. Whether you’re a resident or non-resident, a youth or a senior, there are specific licenses, tags, and endorsements you may need to fish legally in the state.
Who Needs a Fishing License in Oregon?
In Oregon, anyone 12 years of age or older must have a valid fishing license to angle for or take any fish for personal use. This applies to both residents and non-residents. Children younger than 12 do not need a license to fish.
To be considered a resident of Oregon, you must be domiciled in the state, have resided in Oregon for at least six consecutive months immediately prior to applying for a license, or be a member of the uniformed services permanently assigned to active duty in Oregon. If you meet these criteria, you may be eligible for reduced-cost resident licenses.
Types of Fishing Licenses in Oregon
Oregon offers a variety of fishing licenses to suit different needs and budgets. Here are some of the most common options:
– **Annual Angling License**: This license is valid from January 1 to December 31, 2024. The cost is $44.00 for residents and $110.50 for non-residents.
– **Sports Pac**: This comprehensive license includes fishing, shellfish, and hunting licenses, as well as various tags and validations. It costs $196.50 for residents and $206.25 with the Columbia River Basin Endorsement.
– **Combined Angling and Hunting License**: Available only to residents, this license combines fishing and hunting privileges for $73.00.
– **Daily/Multi-Day Licenses**: These licenses are valid for a specific number of days and include the Combined Angling Tag. Prices range from $23.00 for a one-day license to $93.50 for a seven-day non-resident license.
– **Youth Licenses**: Young anglers aged 12-17 can purchase a $10 Youth License, which includes fishing, hunting, shellfishing licenses, and the Columbia River Basin Endorsement.
– **Senior and Pioneer Licenses**: Oregon residents aged 70 or older who have lived in the state for at least five years can purchase a Senior Angling License for $29.00. Those aged 65 or older who have resided in Oregon for at least 50 years can get a Pioneer Combination License for $6.00, which includes fishing and hunting privileges.
– **Disabled Veteran and Uniformed Service Member Licenses**: Disabled veterans who are Oregon residents can get a free Disabled Veteran Combination License, while active duty service members who are non-residents can purchase a Uniformed Services Angling License for $44.00.
Additional Requirements
In addition to a valid fishing license, anglers may need to purchase certain endorsements, validations, tags, and permits depending on their fishing activities. Some of these include:
– **Columbia River Basin Endorsement**: All anglers (regardless of age) must have this endorsement when fishing for salmon, steelhead, and sturgeon in the mainstem Columbia River from Buoy 10 upstream, and in all rivers and tributaries that flow into the Columbia River. The cost is $9.75 when purchased with an angling license or $11.75 when purchased separately.
– **Combined Angling Tag**: This tag is required for anglers (regardless of age) who wish to fish for salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, and halibut. The cost is $46.00 for residents and $66.00 for non-residents.
– **Two-Rod Validation**: Allows a licensed angler to use two rods or lines while fishing in standing waterbodies such as lakes, ponds, and reservoirs. The cost is $28.00.
– **Hatchery Salmon/Steelhead Harvest Card**: Allows additional harvest of hatchery salmon and steelhead for $33.00.
It’s important to note that any anglers other than Washington residents must have a valid Oregon angling or shellfish license when landing fish or taking shellfish by boat in Oregon. All licenses, tags, and permits are available online, through license agents, and ODFW offices that sell licenses.
In conclusion, understanding the fishing license requirements in Oregon for 2024 is crucial for anyone planning to fish in the state. Whether you’re a resident or non-resident, a youth or a senior, there are specific licenses, tags, and endorsements you may need to fish legally. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the different options and additional requirements before heading out on your fishing adventure in Oregon.