Every year, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife invites reeling newbies and advanced anglers to participate in free fishing weekends. During these events, no fishing licenses or tags are required to fish, crab or clam in Oregon.
On these days it is not required to have a license or tag (including Combined Angling Tag or Columbia River Basin Endorsement or Two-Rod Validation).
This is a great opportunity for you to try out fishing, crabbing or clamming in Oregon without having to pay for an annual license. While shellfish licenses are only $10, fishing licenses start at $44. If you combine this as a couple or family, it can start to get a little pricey for an activity you may love or think better left to fishing lovers.
Even though these are free fishing days, fishing rules still apply. These include location closures, bag limits and size restrictions. Before planning your trip, be sure to brush up on Oregon fishing regulations.
2021 Free Fishing Weekends in Oregon
- February 13-14 (Saturday & Sunday), President’s Day Weekend
- June 5-6 (Saturday & Sunday)
- November 26-27 (Friday & Saturday), Thanksgiving Weekend
This free fishing weekends are open to nonresidents. Yet, there are still special restrictions in place on the coast due to the pandemic. To stay up to date on closures and restrictions at this recreation report.
During this time, precautions are in place to keep people safe while enjoying the outdoors. When you’re fishing, clamming or crabbing, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife asks you to keep this in mind:
- Practice social distancing. Keep six feet between you and anyone who doesn’t live in your immediate household, including while on a boat or at a fish cleaning station.
- Wear a mask. Recreation areas can get more crowded on the weekends and during Free Fishing Weekend. Wear a mask outdoors when you can’t maintain six feet of distance from someone who doesn’t live in your household.
- Wash your hands often. Keep up on personal hygiene and bring your own water, soap, and hand sanitizer with you.
Stay home if you are sick. - Be prepared. Restrooms and other facilities may be more limited. Bring your own soap, water, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, food, etc.
- Avoid crowds. Go someplace else if your destination looks crowded.
- Pack out what you pack in. Take any garbage with you.
- Check for access before you go. Many spots have reopened to public access but some may still be closed.
For more information, visit Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s website.
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When
February 13, 2021-February 14, 2021
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Where
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Cost
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June 5, 2021-June 6, 2021
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Free Fishing Weekend
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Cost
FREE
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When
November 26, 2021-November 27, 2021
What
Free Fishing Weekend
Where
Various locations
Cost
FREE
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Portland, OR
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