Dan Knoll (503) 947-6023       
Tracy Crews, STEP Biologist (503) 842-2741

TILLAMOOK, Ore — Young people can learn how to fish and reel in a trout Saturday, March 24, at Loren’s Pond in Tillamook, Oregon.

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is stocking 1,500 rainbow trout for the event as part of the Youth Angling Enhancement Program. The department supply’s rods, reels and tackle for use by young anglers who don’t have their own fishing equipment. Local businesses are donating fish bags, ice and bait and volunteers from Northwest Steelheaders will be on hand to help young anglers. Packets of information including North Coast stocking schedules and the new Easy Angling Oregon booklets will be available to participants. The fishing event is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

This program was made possible through a $50,000 appropriation from the Oregon Legislature and a partnership with the Oregon Wildlife Heritage Foundation, which pledged an additional $50,000 and is working with ODFW to develop and promote youth fishing opportunities throughout the state.
Under Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations, anglers aged 13 and under do not require a license, while those 14-17 require a juvenile license. All fishing regulations continue to apply for this event.

“This is our third year and this event always falls on the first Saturday of spring break,” said Tracy Crews, North Coast Salmon and Trout Enhancement Program (STEP) Biologist. “We look forward to great turnout and hope everyone uses this event as a springboard towards other fishing opportunities.”
Loren’s Pond is located off Chance Road in Tillamook, approximately 1/2 mile before Trask Hatchery, next to Loren’s Drift Boat Launch.

The mission of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is to protect and enhance Oregon's fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations. The agency consists of the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission, a commission-appointed director and a statewide staff of approximately 950 permanent employees. Headquartered in Salem, ODFW has regional offices in Clackamas, Roseburg, Bend, and La Grande with ten district offices located throughout the state. For additional information, please visit www.dfw.state.or.us.