What Oregon Fishing Licenses Cost

An Oregon resident fishing license costs $31.95 for a one-year license, or $54.95 for a three-year license. A one-day license costs $13.95. Non-residents pay $63.95 for a one-year license, $109.95 for a three-year license, or $24.95 for a one-day license. These prices cover freshwater fishing on most Oregon waters.

If you want to fish for salmon or steelhead, you need to add a salmon and steelhead endorsement. This costs $13.95 for residents and $24.95 for non-residents, on top of your base license. Some specialty licenses, like a combination hunting and fishing license, cost $151.95 for residents and $301.95 for non-residents for one year.

Prices can change each year, so check the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife website before you buy. You can purchase licenses online, by phone at 1-866-FISH-AND, or at authorized retailers throughout the state.

Key Takeaways

  • Oregon resident one-year fishing licenses cost $31.95, while non-residents pay $63.95.
  • One-day licenses are available for $13.95 (residents) or $24.95 (non-residents) if you only fish occasionally.
  • Salmon and steelhead fishing requires an additional endorsement costing $13.95 for residents or $24.95 for non-residents.
  • You can buy licenses online through the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, by phone, or at retail locations around the state.
  • License prices are set by the state and may change annually, so confirm current rates before purchasing.

Who Needs a License and Who Does Not

Anyone 12 years old or older who fishes in Oregon must have a valid license. Children under 12 can fish without a license as long as they are supervised by a licensed adult. Some people are exempt from needing a license, including Native American tribal members fishing on tribal lands under tribal law, and people fishing in certain private ponds or hatcheries with the owner's permission.

If you have a disability that prevents you from fishing in the usual way, Oregon offers a disabled angler license at a reduced rate. Contact the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife directly to learn about this option and what documentation you need.

Resident vs. Non-Resident Pricing

Oregon considers you a resident if you have lived in the state for at least six months and have a valid Oregon driver's license or state ID. If you do not meet this requirement, you are charged non-resident rates, which are roughly double the resident price.

Military members stationed in Oregon may be able to purchase resident licenses. If you are active duty, reserve, or National Guard, bring your military ID to an authorized retailer or contact the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife to confirm your status.

Multi-Year Licenses and When They Make Sense

A three-year resident license costs $54.95, compared to $31.95 per year if you buy annually. Over three years, buying one three-year license saves you about $39.85. If you fish regularly, the three-year option locks in the current price and means you do not have to remember to renew every year.

Non-residents pay $109.95 for three years versus $63.95 per year, saving about $81.80 over the period. The three-year license is worth buying if you plan to fish in Oregon more than once during that time frame.

Endorsements and Special Permits Beyond the Base License

The base fishing license covers most freshwater fishing, but certain species and methods require add-ons. The salmon and steelhead endorsement is the most common and costs $13.95 for residents or $24.95 for non-residents. You need this if you want to keep salmon or steelhead, even if you are fishing in freshwater.

Other endorsements include tags for specific species like sturgeon or crab. A sturgeon tag costs $7.95 for residents and $14.95 for non-residents and allows you to keep one sturgeon per year. A crab tag for coastal crabbing costs $7.95 for residents and $14.95 for non-residents. You buy these tags separately from your base license.

If you want to fish for both freshwater species and salmon, you need the base license plus the salmon and steelhead endorsement. The endorsement does not replace the base license—it adds to it.

Where to Buy and How to Renew

You can purchase or renew your license online through the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife website, which is the fastest option. You can also call 1-866-FISH-AND to buy by phone, or visit an authorized retailer such as sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, or some grocery stores. Many retailers throughout Oregon sell licenses in person.

Your license is valid for one year from the date you purchase it, unless you buy a multi-year license. You can renew online before your current license expires, and your new license will start the day after the old one ends. Keep your license with you whenever you fish—Oregon requires you to show it to a fish and wildlife officer if asked.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to fish in a private pond on my own property?

No, you do not need a license to fish in a private pond on land you own or have permission to use. However, if the pond is stocked with species like trout or salmon, you still need the appropriate endorsement to keep those fish. Check with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife if you are unsure about your specific situation.

Can I buy a license for just one week?

Oregon does not offer a weekly license. Your options are a one-day license for $13.95 (residents) or $24.95 (non-residents), or a full one-year license. If you are fishing multiple days, the one-year license is usually the better value.

What happens if I fish without a valid license?

Fishing without a license is a violation of Oregon law and can result in fines and other penalties. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife enforces licensing rules, and officers can check your license at any time while you are fishing.

Do senior citizens get a discount on fishing licenses?

Oregon does not offer a reduced-price senior license, but seniors may be able to purchase a disabled angler license if they have a may have access to disability. Contact the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife to discuss your situation and what documentation is needed.

Can I transfer my license to someone else if I do not use it?

No, fishing licenses are non-transferable and are valid only for the person whose name appears on the license. Each person who fishes must have their own valid license.