Get Your Valid Oregon Fishing License

Oregon Fishing License Information For Travelers and Anglers

Who needs an Oregon fishing license?

If you are 12 years or older and fishing in Oregon waters—including saltwater, freshwater, or on a charter—then you generally need an angling license issued by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW). Residents are defined as individuals who have physically lived in Oregon for at least six consecutive months before applying for a license.

Whether you’re casting a line on the Umpqua River estuary or fishing offshore near Winchester Bay, a valid license is required for most species—especially salmon, halibut, and other regulated fish.

Where and how to get an Oregon saltwater license and freshwater license

You may purchase your license online at MyODFW.com, via the MYODFW app, in person at an ODFW office, or through authorized retailers (such as bait & tackle shops).

When you buy your license: choose the “Angling” license for fish, and if you will fish for species such as salmon, steelhead or halibut you may also need a Combined Angling Tag or other endorsements. Choose “saltwater” or “freshwater” based on where you intend to fish—our region around Winchester Bay and the Oregon Coast includes both coastal saltwater and river estuary freshwater zones.

Prices: Residents vs. Non-Residents

For 2024–25, the standard resident annual angling license is around $44.00, while the non-resident annual angling license is approximately $110.50.

Short-term licenses are available too: 1-day angling (≈ $23 for residents), 3-day angling (~$59.50), non-resident 7-day angling (~$93.50) among others. Shellfish (crabbing) licenses: residents ~$10, non-residents ~$28.

Saltwater vs. Freshwater Rules

In Oregon, saltwater fish and shellfish (for example Dungeness crab, ocean­caught salmon, halibut) often require not only the general angling license but also specific rules on landing location and tag validity. For example, when taking adult salmon, steelhead or halibut, you must immediately enter certain codes and location.

Freshwater rules also apply: if fishing purely in lakes or rivers (not near the coast), you need the license and follow the specific freshwater zone regulations. Because SOA Charters operates where saltwater meets river (Winchester Bay, Umpqua estuary), customers should carry the standard angling license and review the combined tag or endorsement requirements if targeting salmon or halibut.

Special Exemptions & Reduced Fees

• Children under age 12 may not need a fishing license in many cases. MyODFW
• Youth (ages 12–17) can purchase a youth license (~$10 for residents) which may include fishing and shellfish.
• Oregon residents age 70 or older (who have lived in Oregon at least 5 years) may qualify for a senior discounted license (≈ $29).
• Disabled veterans and active uniformed-service members sometimes qualify for free or discounted licenses.