Oregon Fishing License Guide: What You Need & How to Get It

Before you fish Oregon waters, you need the proper licensing. Here's a straightforward guide to what's required, how much it costs, and where to get it. Don't skip this—fishing without a valid license results in fines and ruins your trip.

Basic Oregon Fishing License

Everyone 12 years and older must have a valid Oregon fishing license to fish in Oregon waters, including ocean, bay, and river.

Cost (2026 rates):

• Annual Resident: $43.00
• Annual Non-Resident: $163.50
• 1-Day Non-Resident: $22.00
• 2-Day Non-Resident: $33.00
• Youth (12-17): Reduced rates

Children under 12 fish free without a license when accompanied by a licensed adult.

Combined Angling Tag (CAT)

To keep salmon, steelhead, or sturgeon, you need a Combined Angling Tag IN ADDITION to your basic fishing license.

Cost (2026):

• Annual Resident: $10.00
• Annual Non-Resident: $28.00
• 1-Day Non-Resident: $8.00

If you're targeting salmon on your charter trip, you MUST have both the basic license AND the Combined Angling Tag. Don't assume the basic license covers everything—it doesn't.

Shellfish License

To harvest Dungeness crab, clams, or other shellfish, you need a separate Shellfish License.

Cost (2026):

• Annual Resident: $10.00
• Annual Non-Resident: $28.00
• 3-Day Non-Resident: $14.00

The Shellfish License is separate from your fishing license. If you're doing a combination fishing and crabbing trip, you need BOTH licenses.

What About Halibut, Tuna, Lingcod, and Rockfish?

Good news—these species require only the basic fishing license. No additional tags needed for halibut, albacore tuna, lingcod, or rockfish.

Where to Buy Licenses

Online: Visit the ODFW licensing website. Create an account, select your licenses, and purchase online. Print or save to your phone.

MyODFW Mobile App: Download the MyODFW app (iOS and Android). Purchase licenses directly through the app and display them on your phone. This is the most convenient option for out-of-state visitors.

Sporting Goods Stores: Many stores in Coos Bay and Charleston sell licenses. Call ahead to confirm availability.

ODFW Offices: Visit an Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife office in person during business hours.

Digital vs Physical Licenses

Oregon accepts digital licenses displayed on your smartphone. As long as you have your license accessible (printed or on phone), you're legal. Keep your phone charged or bring a printed backup.

What Happens If You Fish Without a License?

Oregon State Police and ODFW officers patrol fishing areas and check licenses. Fishing without a valid license results in citations and fines. Don't risk it—the cost of a license is far less than the fine for fishing illegally.

License Summary by Trip Type

Bottom fishing (lingcod, rockfish): Basic fishing license only

Halibut or tuna trips: Basic fishing license only

Salmon trips: Basic fishing license + Combined Angling Tag

Crabbing: Shellfish License (can fish without it, but can't keep crab)

Combination fishing and crabbing: Basic fishing license + Shellfish License

Salmon AND crabbing: Basic fishing license + Combined Angling Tag + Shellfish License

When to Buy Your License

Purchase licenses before your trip—ideally a few days in advance. Don't wait until the morning of departure. Internet or cell service may be poor at the dock, and stores may not be open early enough.

If you're first-time charter fishing, add license shopping to your pre-trip checklist.