If you’re planning to fish for salmon, steelhead, or sturgeon in the Columbia River Basin in 2024, you’ll need more than just a basic fishing license. The Columbia River Basin Endorsement is an essential requirement that anglers must obtain to legally target these species in the region.
The Columbia River Basin Endorsement: What Is It?
The Columbia River Basin Endorsement is a special permit that anglers must purchase in addition to their regular fishing license when fishing for salmon, steelhead, or sturgeon in the Columbia River Basin. This endorsement helps fund improvements to Columbia River fisheries, including expanded off-channel commercial fishing areas, fisheries-specific research and monitoring, additional hatchery production, and commercial/recreational fisheries law enforcement.
The cost of the endorsement varies depending on the type of license you purchase:
$9.75 when purchased with an annual fishing license
$11.75 when purchased separately (includes a $2 agent fee)
$1 per day for daily fishing licenses
It’s important to note that the endorsement is required for all rivers and streams in the Columbia River Basin, not just the main stem of the Columbia River itself.
Who Needs the Columbia River Basin Endorsement?
The Columbia River Basin Endorsement is required for all anglers, both residents and non-residents, who wish to fish for salmon, steelhead, or sturgeon in the Columbia River Basin. This includes:
Anglers with annual fishing licenses
Anglers with daily fishing licenses
Anglers with youth licenses (12-17 years old)
Anglers with senior licenses (70 years old and older)
Anglers with disabled veteran licenses
There are a few exceptions, however. Anglers with resident disabled veteran, resident pioneer, youth under 12, and free licenses will be issued the endorsement at no additional cost upon request.
Where to Purchase the Columbia River Basin Endorsement
The Columbia River Basin Endorsement can be purchased from a variety of sources, including:
Online through the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) website
At ODFW offices
At licensed sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and other retailers that sell fishing licenses
When purchasing the endorsement, you’ll need to provide your name, date of birth, and fishing license number (if applicable). Once you have the endorsement, it’s valid for the duration of your fishing license.
Additional Requirements for Fishing in the Columbia River Basin
In addition to the Columbia River Basin Endorsement, anglers fishing in the Columbia River Basin may need to purchase additional licenses, tags, and permits, depending on their specific fishing plans. These may include:
Annual or daily fishing license
Adult Combined Angling Tag (required for salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, and halibut)
Hatchery Salmon/Steelhead Harvest Card
Two-Rod Validation (allows the use of two rods in standing water bodies)
It’s important to carefully review the regulations and requirements for the specific area and species you plan to target to ensure you have all the necessary licenses and permits.
Fishing in the Columbia River Basin can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it’s crucial to ensure you’re fishing legally and responsibly. By obtaining the required Columbia River Basin Endorsement and any additional licenses or permits needed, you can enjoy your fishing trip while helping to support the conservation and management of these important fisheries.