ODFW Tag Team reporting

Why the program started

Historically, fishery biologists would estimate if stocking programs were successful by interviewing anglers about their fishing experiences. This was not an ideal management evaluation because these surveys were limited by the time and expense it took to conduct them. To remedy the problem, the fish tagging and reporting program was born through a grant from the ODFW Fish Restoration and Enhancement Program. 

By releasing a known number of tagged fish into lakes, and totaling reports from anglers who caught a tagged fish, ODFW biologists can accurately estimate the percentage of the total population of stocked fish that were caught. Armed with this knowledge, biologists can better serve anglers by stocking the correct number of fish and the most desirable species. Of course, not every tagged fish will be reported, so to sweeten the deal, some tags come with monetary rewards.

Be part of the ODFW tag team

Take an active role in the management of Oregon fisheries! ODFW has released tagged fish in selected fisheries to evaluate harvest, survival and growth, but we need your help. If you catch a tagged fish, please report it to ODFW. Some tags include rewards labeled on the tag that are valued up to $50. Tagged fish can be kept or released. If you release a fish, please write down the tag number and release the fish with the tag intact. If the tag includes a reward, the tag must be removed from the fish and returned to ODFW to receive the reward.

If you catch a tagged fish:

• Tagged fish can be harvested or released.  If the fish is released, cut the tag off at the base rather than try to rip the tag out.  
• Anglers can report non-reward tags in person, by mail, by phone, or by using the tag-reporting page. 
• Reward tags must be returned to ODFW, preferably the District Office where the fish was caught, either in person or by mail.
• Look for “Tag Team” posters at the boat ramps for further project and contact information.