Basic Oregon Regulations

I realize that the fishing regulations in Oregon can be really complicated. However, I have a few basic questions.

1.) What period is an Oregon fishing license good for?  In California it's Jan 1 - Dec 31. In New York (where I grew up), it's Oct 1 - Sept 30 of the next year.  I also think there are some states where the license is good for one year after the date of purchase.  Anyway, I'm assuming it's Jan-Dec and will probably hold off on buying a license for the two months I will have resided in Oregon this year.

2.) Is there a 6 month residency requirement?  If so, that will mean I won't be eligible for a resident license until early May of 2008.  I usually don't do that much fishing in the winter and early spring anyway, but I'm wondering if there are some really good fishing opportunities that I'll be missing if I choose to wait.  Maybe I'll just have to pony up the extra $40 for the non-resident license for next year.

3.) Are there any kayak registration requirements for a fishing kayak in Oregon?

4.) Do you have to wear your fishing license in Oregon?  You do in California, but not in New York.

Thanks,
Brian

Just a quick post for ya, in case others are busy.  I havn't gotten my license in Oregon yet.

http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/fishing/regulations_2007.pdf

That'll answer most of your questions.

1) It doesn't seem to answer your question.  I'm guessing it's a year from the date when you buy it, since they don't specify a 'yearly' license or an expiration.

2)  Yes, there is a 6 month residency requirement.

3)  So long as there is no motor on the kayak, there is no registration required.  Unlike some states I believe a life jacket is required to be worn at all times, and not just be in the boat with you.  Could be wrong on that though.

4)  Yes, you have to have your license on you at all times while fishing.  Though you generally won't get stopped on the water here, so you could probably be fairly safe keeping it in your car.  Well, atleast not on the smaller waters anyway.

Thanks Phynix,

I did have a look at the Oregon reg booklet, and it did answer my "6 mo residency question", but not really my others questions.

I hope you're right about the year from purchase because I really don't want to have to wait for the new year to start fishing again.

As for my "wearing" of the license question, I think you might have misunderstood me.  I understand that you have to have your license on you in all states, but in California you actually have to wear it on the outside of your clothing above your waist.  It's a real pain as you have to stuff your license in a little dry ziplock thingy and have it dangling around your neck on a lanyard or pinned to your jacket or hat.  I'd much rather have it in a pocket somewhere.


Brian

I have lived here my whole life, and unless they have changed things you need a new license every Jan 1st and it is good for one calender year. Same goes for your salmon/steelhead/sturgeon tags etc.   Not sure about the residencey thing, but it will be in the regs. No license for your yak (unless you plan to put a motor on it then it wouldl need to be registered with the oregon marine board).  and you don't need to wear your license, it just "needs to be on your person". Hope this helps.  Lots to fish for between now and Jan... fall salmon in coastal rivers and bays, the surprise calm ocean windows of the fall.

One more quick question..

For those in Oregon living close to the Washington state border (I'll be in Portland), is it worth it to get a Washington license as well or are you satisfied with staying in Oregon?

One more quick question..

For those in Oregon living close to the Washington state border (I'll be in Portland), is it worth it to get a Washington license as well or are you satisfied with staying in Oregon?

Good question. I'm down for checking out Oregon more too.

Z

1)  Jan 1 through Dec 31

2)  When I got here (7 years ago), it was a year wait. Get a drivers license ASAP

3) On your person, but not displayed.

4) That depends on how often you go see Zee and friends. I usually get a day license for WA, but they add up quick. Fishing in the Columbia is covered by your OR license as long as you don't enter any of the tributaries. You can launch from either side.

That said, I'm planning to pop for a WA license in Jan. and you might want to wait till then to get the OR license as well (do a couple of day licenses) DON'T be without a license! One, because its a good idea. Two, they are out there when you least expect it in the most unlikely places and they don't play (actually, they are generally quite pleasant, but the fines are not)

WA licenses start in April I believe ... not entirely sure of the exact date, but it is NOT in Jan.

It's kind of funny that I pay a resident's license in both CA and WA.  Don't ask me how that works.

-Allen

WA recreational licenses are 4/1-3/31. Guide licenses are 1/1-12/31. Things make so much sense in this state.

Bsteves- don't forget about dungies in the coastal bays. OR is much better than WA, IMHO. Smaller sizes, bigger limits, greater abundance.

Oregon,, ALL fishing licenses expire on Dec. 31. No matter when you purchase!

pelagic paddler:  "I have lived here my whole life,..."

 When people ask me if I've lived in Oregon my whole life, I reply, "Not yet."