PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon will prohibit all non-resident hunting, fishing and shellfishing activity, starting at midnight Friday, in an effort to stem a surge of non-resident anglers, mostly from Washington.
The action follows Washington’s decision to close all hunting, fishing and shellfishing until at least early May.
In a news release Thursday afternoon, the department cited COVID-19 concerns and said it will last until coronavirus restrictions are lifted.
The ban does not apply to anyone living in Oregon for less than six months who hasn’t established residency.
Curt Melcher, director of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, said north Oregon Coast communities are especially supportive of the action, although the appearance of Washington boats in the lower Willamette River and Multnomah Channel are also a concern.
“Rural communities are concerned about the potential impact of COVID-19 on medical and emergency services, search and rescue and their citizens. Some have asked us to close seasons to reduce travel,” he said in the release. “We would like to keep seasons open to give locals an outlet during this difficult time, but that doesn’t mean it’s OK to travel to these communities. Stick close to home and fish at your local lake, pond or river and do not go crabbing or clamming unless you live on the coast, and then only to places where access is still open.”
The emergency order applies to all current fishing and hunting seasons, but not for those applying for non-resident tags for fall hunts.
Oregon will refund hunters with out-of-state tags for spring bear or turkey hunts.
The ban also applies to the Oregon side of the Columbia River, where resident anglers may continue to target non-salmon or steelhead species, but not those holding Washington or non-resident Oregon licenses.
“We appreciate that many Oregonians are taking the Stay Home, Save Lives order seriously,” Melcher said, adding: “We (also) appreciate everyone’s understanding at this difficult time and look forward to seeing you outdoors again in the future when this passes.”
-- Bill Monroe for The Oregonian/OregonLive
This article was originally published by The Oregonian/OregonLive, one of more than a dozen news organizations throughout the state sharing their coverage of the novel coronavirus outbreak to help inform Oregonians about this evolving health issue.
