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Freshwater Fishing in Oregon
Oregon Fishing at a Glance
Oregon has more than 100,000 miles of rivers and streams, 360 miles of coast, and 1,480 named lakes, the state is known for its waterways. There are over 50 different species of fish to be caught including trout, salmon, and bass.
There are a few things you should know before wetting a line. The most important thing to remember is that all anglers must have a valid Oregon fishing license, which can be easily obtained online or at any number of retail locations statewide (see links below).
One of the most popular gamefish in Oregon is rainbow trout. These feisty fish can be found in a number of rivers and streams throughout the state, but some of the best spots include the Deschutes River, Crooked River, and Sandy River. If you’re after a bigger fish, bull trout are also a popular choice. These massive trout can top 20 pounds in some cases, and they can be found in many of the same waters as rainbow trout.
Other popular freshwater fish in Oregon include smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, brown trout, and cutthroat trout. All of these can be caught in a variety of waters across the state, so you’ll never be far from good fishing no matter where you are in Oregon.
Oregon ranks #15 in the U.S. for fishing licenses per capita and has a good number of local fishing enhtusiasts with over 14.8% of the population having fishing licenses.
Key Insights
- Oregon has over 100,000 miles of rivers and streams, 360 miles of coast, and 1,480 named lakes, with over 50 different species of fish.
- All anglers must have a valid Oregon fishing license, which can be obtained online or at retail locations statewide.
- Popular gamefish in Oregon include rainbow trout and bull trout, with good spots for fishing in Deschutes River, Crooked River, and Sandy River.
- Other popular freshwater fish in Oregon include smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, brown trout, and cutthroat trout, which can be caught in various waters across the state.
- Oregon ranks #15 in the U.S. for fishing licenses per capita with over 14.8% of the population having fishing licenses.
Table of Contents
Estimated Fishing Enthusiasts
| Population: | 4,237,256 |
|---|---|
| Fishing Enthusiasts | 627,030 |
| Fishing License % | 14.80% |
| Hunters Rank | 15 |
The state of Oregon is mostly private land with 31.58% of acres considered public land -ranking #13 amongst all states.
Land Types (Acres)
| Acres | % | Rank | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | 61,441,900 | ||
| Public | 19,403,600 | 31.58% | 13 |
| Private | 41,377,600 | 67.34% | 37 |
| Tribal | 660,700 | 1.08% | 13 |
Oregon Fishing Licenses & Requirements
For the most accurate and updated information on fishing licenses and requirements, it’s always a good idea to check the Oregon DNR. We’ve provided their contact information and other helpful information for your convenience here.
Oregon DNR
4034 Fairview Industrial Dr. SE
Salem, OR 97302
- (503) 947-6301
Helpful Links
Fishing in Oregon offers an exciting adventure with a variety of fish to catch. From trout, known for their shy nature and requiring lures that imitate their natural food sources; to salmon, aggressive and easily caught using a range of methods; to bass preferring live bait over lures; and catfish – scavengers that will eat anything, even if there is a risk of being hooked; anglers can expect plenty of challenge when fishing in here. Walleye is also a favorite among anglers in deeper waters. Each species offers its own unique thrills and challenges to the fishing enthusiast.
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Fishing private land in Oregon
Fishing on private land in Oregon has some real advantages over public lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds *if you can get access. For instance, there’s nothing like having a quiet lake all to yourself and oftentimes there are simply more fish available to catch, because they haven’t been fished out. There are generally more processes for access private land for hunting than fishing, though some similar methods exist. For instance, you can sometimes join a fishing club in Oregon or if you have the money, it may be possible to rent some private land for fishing. Another option is to knock on doors or work your contacts in an area to see if a landowner would let you fish for the day or possibly be open to a longer term arrangement.
Fortunately Wing It is simplifying land access for fishing, hunting, camping, and more. We’re adding new land every day and if we have some in your area, you’ll see some great options below.
1. Willamette River
2. Columbia River
3. Umpqua River
4. Deschutes River
5. Rogue River
Fishing private land in Oregon
Fishing on private land in Oregon has some real advantages over public lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds *if you can get access. For instance, there’s nothing like having a quiet lake all to yourself and oftentimes there are simply more fish available to catch, because they haven’t been fished out. There are generally more processes for access private land for hunting than fishing, though some similar methods exist. For instance, you can sometimes join a fishing club in Oregon or if you have the money, it may be possible to rent some private land for fishing. Another option is to knock on doors or work your contacts in an area to see if a landowner would let you fish for the day or possibly be open to a longer term arrangement.
Fortunately Wing It is simplifying land access for fishing, hunting, camping, and more. We’re adding new land every day and if we have some in your area, you’ll see some great options below.