regon is a world-class fishing destination — from chasing steelhead on the Deschutes River to reeling in Chinook salmon along the coast. Whether you’re a lifelong Oregonian or visiting for the first time, you’ll need a valid fishing license before casting a line. Here’s everything you need to know about getting your 2026 Oregon fishing license.
Who Needs an Oregon Fishing License?
Anyone 12 years or older must carry a valid Oregon fishing license when fishing in state waters. Here’s the breakdown:
- Adults 12+: Valid fishing license required
- Children under 12: May fish without a license, but must follow all regulations (bag limits, size limits, etc.)
- Residents and non-residents: Both need a license — fees differ based on residency
Exemptions
- Free Fishing Days: Oregon offers three free fishing weekends each year when no license is required
- Landowners: Oregon resident landowners may fish on their own property without a license, except when targeting salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, or halibut
- Disabled Veterans: Qualifying disabled veterans receive a free combination license
2026 Oregon Fishing License Fees
Oregon raised fishing license fees in 2026 — the first increase since 2020. Here are the current rates:
Annual & Short-Term Licenses
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Angling License | $50.00 | $138.00 |
| One-Day Angling & Shellfish | $29.00 | $29.00 |
| Youth Combo (12–17) | $10.00 | $10.00 |
| Senior Angling (70+) | $34.00 | N/A |
| Pioneer License (65+, 50-yr resident) | $10.00 | N/A |
| Disabled Veteran Combination | Free | N/A |
| Combined Angling & Hunting | $73.00+ | N/A |
| Sports Pac (all-inclusive bundle) | $253.00 | N/A |
Tags, Endorsements & Permits
| Add-On | Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Combined Angling Tag (salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, halibut) | $69.00 | $89.00 |
| Hatchery Harvest Tag | $43.00 | $43.00+ |
| Two-Rod Validation | $34.00 | $34.00 |
| Columbia River Basin Endorsement (with license) | $9.75 | $9.75 |
| NEW Ocean Endorsement (annual) | $9.00 | $9.00 |
| NEW Ocean Endorsement (daily) | $4.00 | $4.00 |
What’s new for 2026? A brand-new Ocean Endorsement is now required for most ocean fishing (exceptions: salmon, steelhead, and shellfish). This funds marine fish research, including rockfish stock assessments. The endorsement is included with Youth Combo, Pioneer, and Disabled Veteran licenses.
Source: Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), updated for 2026 fishing season.
How to Buy Your Oregon Fishing License (Step-by-Step)
You can purchase your Oregon fishing license through three methods:
Method 1: Online (Fastest)
- Go to myodfw.com — ODFW’s official licensing portal
- Click “Buy a License”
- Create an account or log in to your existing ODFW account
- Select your license type (annual, one-day, etc.)
- Add any required tags or endorsements (Combined Angling Tag, Ocean Endorsement, etc.)
- Pay with a credit or debit card
- Print your license or save it on your phone — both are accepted in the field
Pro Tip: Buy your license before you arrive in Oregon. Online purchases are processed instantly, and you can start fishing right away.
Method 2: In Person
Visit any authorized ODFW license agent, including:
- ODFW regional offices
- Sporting goods stores (e.g., Bi-Mart, Coastal Farm & Ranch)
- Walmart and other retail locations
- Many gas stations and convenience stores in fishing areas
Use the ODFW license agent locator to find a vendor near you.
Method 3: By Phone
Call ODFW’s licensing department at 1-800-720-6339 to purchase over the phone with a credit card.
What Documents Do You Need?
- Residents: Oregon driver’s license or proof of Oregon residency (lived in Oregon 6+ months)
- Non-residents: Valid government-issued photo ID
- Youth anglers (12–17): Parent/guardian may purchase on their behalf
2026 Free Fishing Days
On free fishing weekends, no fishing license, tags, or endorsements are required for anyone — residents and non-residents alike. All other regulations (bag limits, closures, size limits) still apply.
| Weekend | Dates |
|---|---|
| President’s Day Weekend | February 14–15, 2026 |
| Summer Weekend | June 6–7, 2026 |
| Thanksgiving Weekend | November 27–28, 2026 |
ODFW sponsors free fishing events statewide on these weekends with loaner gear and instruction — perfect for families and first-time anglers. Check ODFW’s “Take the Family Fishing” page for event details.
Oregon Fishing Regulations: Key Rules to Know
Getting your license is step one. Here are the critical regulations every angler should review:
- Bag Limits: Vary by species and location — always check before you fish
- Size Restrictions: Many species (trout, steelhead, salmon) have minimum size requirements
- Seasonal Closures: Some streams close seasonally to protect spawning fish
- Gear Restrictions: Certain waters are fly-fishing only or barbless-hook only
- Catch & Release: Required in some areas and for specific species (e.g., wild steelhead in many rivers)
- Hatchery vs. Wild Fish: Clipped adipose fin = hatchery fish (generally keepable). Intact fin = wild fish (often catch-and-release only)
Always check: Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations before every trip.
Where Your License Fees Go
Oregon fishing license revenue directly funds:
- Fish hatcheries and stocking programs — trout, salmon, steelhead plantings statewide
- Habitat restoration — stream restoration, water quality monitoring
- Scientific research — population surveys, stock assessments
- Public access — boat ramps, fishing access sites, and piers
- Education and outreach — ODFW angler education events
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is an Oregon fishing license in 2026?
A resident annual angling license costs $50.00 in 2026. Non-residents pay $138.00 for an annual license. One-day licenses are $29.00 for both residents and non-residents.
Do kids need a fishing license in Oregon?
Children under 12 do not need a fishing license. Youth anglers aged 12–17 need a Youth Combo license ($10.00).
When are Oregon’s free fishing days in 2026?
Oregon has three free fishing weekends in 2026: February 14–15, June 6–7, and November 27–28. No license or tags required.
What is the new Ocean Endorsement?
Starting in 2026, an Ocean Endorsement ($9/year or $4/day) is required for most ocean fishing except salmon, steelhead, and shellfish. It funds marine fish research and stock assessments.
Can I fish in Oregon with a license from another state?
No. Oregon does not honor fishing licenses from other states. You must purchase an Oregon-specific license (non-resident options are available).
Related Guides:
How to Get a Fishing License in Washington
Oregon Fishing License Costs 2026
