[ODFW-News] Spring Fishing Forecast

[ODFW News]

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife 		
Contacts: Anne Pressentin, Portland, 503-872-5264, Ext. 5356	
Meghan Collins, Roseburg, 541-440-3353	
Kathy Shinn, Clackamas, 503-657-2000, Ext. 285 
Mary Hoverson, LaGrande, 541-963-2138

Internet: www.dfw.state.or.us Fax: (503) 872-5700

For Immediate Release	Wednesday, April 16, 2003

ODFW stocks 3 million trout for Oregon anglers
2003 Zone by Zone Oregon Spring Fishing Forecast

PORTLAND - Trout season officially opens Saturday, April 26, kicking off the spring and summer angling seasons. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife will stock nearly 3 million catchable trout this year in 300 lakes and reservoirs, giving anglers plenty of fishing opportunities statewide. 

In addition, 5 million trout were stocked as fingerlings two years ago in 330 high mountain lakes with the aid of a helicopter. Many of those fish are now about eight inches long and ready to be caught. 

National uncertainties and an increase in gas prices may lead many Oregon families to enjoy summer vacations in state. ODFW reminds parents, teens, novice anglers and experienced anglers that fishing is a great way to connect with the outdoors and enjoy Oregon's abundant natural resources.

"Fishing for trout at a lake or reservoir near a campground requires very little equipment and can be a lot of fun - even for beginners," said Rhine Messmer, ODFW recreational fisheries manager. "I always encourage people to check with local tackle shops or sporting good stores for good information on the nearest fishing hole."

Messmer also said ODFW has several resources for people new to or returning to fishing. They include:
·	ODFW Web site at www.dfw.state.or.us. Information on warmwater fishing, the weekly recreation report, the annual trout stocking schedule and the 2003 Spring Fishing Forecast can be found on the Main Fish Page. 
·	ODFW publications. "Let's Go Fishing" provides information on 24 places to fish statewide that are easy to reach do not require specialized equipment or boats. Three versions of a brochure titled "Marine Recreational Fishing in Oregon" provide information and maps on coastal fishing opportunities on the north coast, central coast and south coast. Anglers may call 503-872-5268 to request copies.
·	ODFW regional and district offices have personnel that can answer questions for anglers planning ahead. Messmer said calling ahead is especially important when heading out to desert rivers or lakes. Low snow packs and water levels can lead to poor fishing conditions late in the year. 
In addition, several excellent fishing guides published about fishing in Oregon can be borrowed from local libraries or purchased from bookstores. 

ODFW also sponsors events for novice youths to learn to fish. Free Fishing Weekend occurs June 7-8. A license is not needed to fish in Oregon that weekend. More than 50 fishing clinics are planned at hatcheries, lakes and ponds in Oregon, including a clinic at Bonneville Hatchery in the Columbia River Gorge. ODFW coordinates the statewide Angler Education Program to teach young people to fish. More information about Free Fishing Weekend and the Angler Education Program can be obtained through Nancy Smogor at 503-872-5264, Ext. 5358, or by checking the ODFW Web site at www.dfw.state.or.us for more information. 

Anglers are reminded to review the 2003 angling regulations and remember that using live fish for bait is illegal in Oregon. 
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The complete 2003 Oregon Spring Fishing Forecast will be posted to the ODFW Web site by the end of the day Thursday, April 17, at: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/ODFWhtml/InfoCntrFish/InfoCntrFish.html#anchor907223. 


Information and Education Division
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
(503) 872-5264 ext 5528