Celebrate the New Year with free fishing Dec. 31-Jan. 1
Make a New Year’s resolution to fish more in 2017. ODFW will get you off to a good start with a free fishing weekend on Saturday, Dec. 31 and Sunday, Jan. 1. On those two days you won’t need a license, tag or endorsement to fish anywhere in Oregon. Check out this week’s Rec Report to begin planning your first fishing trip for 2017. More info

Recreational crabbing now open in all Oregon waters
On Dec. 20, ODA and ODFW announced that the ocean and bay recreational crab fishery is now open in all areas along the coast after domoic acid tests showed safe levels in all areas tested. More info

Bear, pheasant, turkey seasons close Dec. 31
Reminder that western Oregon bear season closes Dec. 31 along with pheasant and turkey seasons.

Steelhead Fishing 101, Feb. 25, 2017
Hands-on instruction on everything you need to know to get started steelhead fishing – regulations, gear, finding fish and three most common methods for steelhead fishing. Your instructors will be members of the Sandy River Chapter of Northwest Steelheaders. The class is $52 for adults and includes lunch. To register and for more information visit the ODFW website.

Winter steelhead fishing is heating up
Winter steelhead have been caught in most coastal rivers, and in some the season is well underway. Keys to success include monitoring water levels and hitting the water as they begin to drop, and decreasing for cold, wet conditions – it’ll make it easier to stay on the water longer. 

Report big game hunt results by Jan. 31, 2017
Remember to complete a report for each 2016 deer, elk, bear, cougar and pronghorn tag you purchased—even if you didn’t hunt or weren’t successful. Report online at reportmyhunt.com or call 1-866-947-6339.