ODFW Articles
Need to figure out controlled hunts, find a place to clam, learn how to fish or get directions to a wildlife area? We've got information on all that and more, straight from ODFW biologists and other accomplished hunters, anglers and wildlife watchers.
Header image by Dave Budeau
Where to fish
The south Willamette area covers the upper Willamette Basin south of Salem and includes the communities of Albany, Corvallis, Eugene...
Where to fish
The John Day – Umatilla area includes the John Day River and Umatilla River basins, and Oregon’s upper reaches of...
Where to fish
The southwest area follows Interstate 5 from Drain south to the Oregon-California border and includes the communities of Grants Pass...
How to fish
9 tips for catching kokanee
Kokanee are fun to catch, delicious to eat, and found in lakes and reservoirs throughout the state.
How to fish
A guide to the field identification of bull trout, brook trout, and their hybrids.
Where to fish
Let's go fishing! Not enough time? Think again. If you live in the greater Portland area, there are a number of places...
Opportunity for kids
A few waterbodies in Oregon are set aside just for younger anglers and those with disabilities—offering everything from warmwater and...
How to fish
We asked some of the fisher folk at ODFW for their favorite gift-giving ideas. Here's what they said.
Where to fish
Not enough time to go fishing? Think again—if you live in the Bend, Redmond, Prineville, Sisters or LaPine areas there...
Where to fish
Whether it's a 6-inch bluegill or a trophy-size bass, Oregon's warmwater fish offer anglers of all ages a variety of...
How to fish
Drought stresses fish and wildlife out
How to fish
There are several ways to begin your fishing journey – you can join a friend or family member on their...
How to fish
Steelhead have been called the ultimate game fish. These elusive and challenging fish can test an angler’s patience and persistence...
Where to fish
Trout are Oregon's most popular game fish but there are several species and not all are open to fishing. Learn...
How to fish
Long-leader gear is used to target midwater species like yellowtail rockfish, canary rockfish and widow rockfish, while avoiding bottom-dwelling species like...
How to fish
DIY and harvest your own
Mud and ghost shrimp are popular baits for salmon, sturgeon and other marine fish. Learn how simple it is to...
Where to fish
A dozen great rivers pour out of the Coast Range Mountains into tidal bays that welcome runs of salmon and...
How to fish
Ice fishing is becoming increasingly popular in Oregon as anglers look for new ways to enjoy fishing year-round. Here are some...
How to fish
Crappie are scrappy, hard-fighting fish, and with a two-rod validation you can double the excitement of reeling in these delicious...
How-to and where-to tips for beginners
Where to fish
Known for its high desert climate, sage-covered canyons, glacial peaks and mountain lakes, this zone is defined by the reach...
How to fish
As temperatures heat up during spring and summer, be on the watch for harmful algae blooms when recreating in Oregon...
Where to fish
The south coast area extends along the Oregon coast from Yachats south to the Oregon-California border. The area offers some...
How to fish
Use your favorite gear, target sea-runs in late summer, and more
Wide distribution, an aggressive nature and willingness to take bait, flies or lures, makes cutthroat trout a popular target in western...