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
2026 spring bear seed numbers6051029 |
Take a look at what hunters can expect in 2026 for their specific hunt...
| Commission materials have moved to MyODFW.com: Commission materials have a new look. ODFW is working to transition its older odfw.com... |
Hunter's Plan for big game success
Oregon offers spring and fall bear hunting seasons. Spring bear season requires a controlled hunt application, while fall bear is...
Education
How to fish
Attend an ODFW family fishing event or DIY
We make it easy to take your family fishing – with free fishing events, recommended family-friendly fishing locations, and how-to's on...
fishing
Attend an ODFW family fishing event or DIY
Now is a great time to learn how to fish, with free fishing opportunities across the state. No licenses...
A growing number of people take to the woods in winter, looking for antlers that have been shed by Oregon’s deer...
Buying a license or permit
In 2025, the Oregon Legislature established the Ocean Endorsement through House Bill 2342 to generate dedicated funding for marine fish...
Tom Schnell, former board member with Kokanee Power of Oregon, shares tips on tech to use to increase your kokanee fishing success.
How to hunt big game
Check for access and understand point reinstatement/refund policy
Dry conditions and the associated wildfire danger can have a large impact on your hunting opportunity. Check below for resources...
Sierra Nevada red fox
Education
Take a look at what's coming up this year!
ODFW connects people to Oregon's great outdoors by offering a multitude
...
To maintain boating access and to protect Oregon's waters from invasive species, all boaters must have the required permit.
Visit...
Opportunity for kids
Mentored Youth Hunter Program allows youth 9 through 15 years of age to hunt without first passing an approved hunter safety...
Regulating harvest, health, and enhancement of wildlife populations.
Where to hunt big game
Private lands accounts for just over half of Oregon’s land base and include farms, range lands, wetlands, forests and stream...
Volunteer
Here are the current volunteer opportunities at the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Find the one that's right for...
Buying a license or permit
All Oregon-licensed anglers fishing for salmon, steelhead or sturgeon (catch-and-release and retention) on all rivers and tributaries in the Columbia...
Buying a license or permit
The free disabled veteran combination license, and permit for disabled hunters and anglers make it easier for everyone to participate.
Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) of Deer, Elk and Moose
CWD is a fatal neurologic disease that has been detected in deer, elk, and moose in numerous states and Canadian...