Enjoy free fishing on Black Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving
SALEM — Avoid the crowds shopping on Black Friday – go fishing, crabbing or clamming for free instead!
Oregon Fish and Wildlife hosts annual Free Fishing Days the two days after Thanksgiving.
That means on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 29-30, 2019, no fishing licenses or tags (including a Combined Angling Tag or Columbia River Basin Endorsement or Two-Rod Validation) are required to fish, crab or clam anywhere in Oregon.
Got relatives visiting Oregon from out of state? They can come along too—non-residents are also free on these two Free Fishing Days.
Although no licenses or tags are required, all other fishing regulations apply, including closures, bag limits and size restrictions. See the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations to find out more.
If you’re going after salmon, steelhead or marine fish, make sure to check the zone where you are fishing in ODFW’s Recreation Report for the latest on season and bag limits because regulations for these species can change in-season.
The Recreation Report comes out weekly and also features the latest on fishing conditions and opportunities, so check it out before you make your Free Fishing Days plans. Trout fishing is a great activity for beginning anglers, and crabbing can be excellent during the winter months.
Finally, if you’re crabbing or clamming, don’t forget to call the Shellfish safety hotline at 1-800-448-2474 or check ODA’s Recreational Shellfish page to make sure an area is open before heading out. The Oregon Department of Agriculture regularly tests shellfish to make sure naturally occurring biotoxins are not at levels that make crabs and clams unsafe to eat.
And of course, stay safe out there. Wear a lifejacket if you are on the water. Beware of sneaker waves and don’t turn your back to the ocean if you are crabbing or clamming.
For tips on how to fish, crab or clam and where to go, visit www.MyODFW.com
