Oregon Fishing Permits: Everything Travelers Need to Know

Oregon Fishing Permits: Everything Travelers Need to Know

Navigating the licensing requirements is the first step toward a successful day on the water with JT’s NW Guide Service. Whether we are targeting Spring Chinook on the Willamette River, battling Sturgeon on the Columbia River, or dropping pots in the Pacific Ocean, having the correct permits is essential. At JT’s NW Guide Service, we want your trip to be stress-free, so we’ve compiled this guide to help you navigate the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) regulations.

Who Needs a License?

• Ages 18 and Over: All adults require a valid angling license.
• Ages 12 to 17: Youth anglers require a "Youth Combined Angling" license, which is significantly discounted and includes tags for Salmon and Steelhead.
• Under 12: No license is required for children under 12 years of age.
• Shellfish: If you are joining us for a crabbing trip in the Pacific Ocean, a separate Shellfish License is required for everyone aged 12 and older.

Where to Buy Your License

The easiest way to obtain your license is through the ODFW MyODFW app or their website. We recommend purchasing your license at least 24 hours before your trip.

• Online: ODFW Licensing System
• In-Person: Many local sporting goods stores (like Fisherman's Marine & Outdoor) and large retailers (like Walmart or Bi-Mart) sell licenses at their service counters.

2026 License Pricing Overview

License Type Resident Price Non-Resident Price

Daily Angling (1-Day) $23.00 $23.00

Annual Angling $44.00 $110.50

Youth Combined (Ages 12-17) $10.00 $10.00

Daily Shellfish (Crabbing) $10.00 $10.00

Combined Angling Tag (Salmon/Sturgeon) $46.00 $66.00

Note: For a single-day trip, the One-Day Angling License is usually the most cost-effective option for travelers as it includes the necessary "tags" for Salmon and Sturgeon for that specific day.

Saltwater vs. Freshwater Rules

When fishing with Todd, we often move between different water types.

• The Rivers: On the Columbia and Willamette, you need a standard Angling License and a Columbia River Basin Endorsement ($9.75), which helps fund the management of these specific fisheries.
• The Ocean: If we head into the Pacific for bottom fish or salmon, your standard angling license still applies, but you must ensure you have the Shellfish permit if we are also pulling crab pots.

Special Exemptions and Notes

• Senior/Pioneer Licenses: Oregon residents aged 70+ who have lived in the state for at least 5 years are eligible for discounted Senior licenses.
• Military: Active duty military members (regardless of residency) can often purchase licenses at the resident rate.
• The "Tag" Requirement: If you are on a multi-day trip and catching Salmon, Steelhead, or Halibut, you must record your catch immediately on your paper tag or in the MyODFW app.