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May 27, 2014
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Harold Tuggy and his son James spend some time together fishing for trout at a recent youth fishing event hosted by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.
(Photo by Rick Swart/ODFW) |
CLACKAMAS, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife will host a free family fishing event from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 31 at Mt. Hood Pond in Gresham.
A feature of the ODFW Outdoors program, the event is designed to introduce young people and their families to fishing. ODFW will hand out rods, reels, tackle and bait to youngsters who are learning to fish or do not have their own gear. Participants are welcome to bring their own equipment if they prefer. Angling instructors will be on site to provide assistance on everything from gearing up and casting to landing and cleaning fish.
“A few simple techniques is all it takes to build the foundation for a lifetime of fishing enjoyment,” said Jeff Fulop, family fishing event coordinator for ODFW’s North Willamette Watershed District. “This is a good opportunity to get out, pick up a few skills, enjoy a day on the water and maybe catch a few trout.”
To ensure that everybody has a good chance of catching fish, ODFW will release 1,625 rainbow trout for the event, including 125 two-pounders.
Anglers are reminded that from April 1 through Aug. 31 fishing at Mt. Hood Pond is restricted to youths 17 and under as well as individuals who possess a valid Oregon Disabilities Fishing Permit. It is one of only three “youth only” fishing venues in the state selected for this distinction because of its easy access and relative safety.
Kids 13 years old and younger do not need a fishing license. Those 14-17 do need a license and can buy them for $9 at any ODFW license agent, ODFW office or on-line at ODFW’s website (www.odfw.com). Licenses will not be issued at the event so those who are required should obtain one ahead of time.
Mt. Hood Pond is a five-acre pond located on the Mt. Hood Community College Campus in Gresham, at 2600 SE Stark Street.
Mt. Hood Pond is one of 350 water bodies in Oregon that ODFW regularly stocks with trout. Persons who are unable to participate in the Canby youth fishing event can explore many other fishing opportunities, stocking schedules and locations at ODFW’s website, www.odfw.com, under the “Fishing” tab.
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Contact:
Jeff Fulop (971) 673-6034
Rick Swart (971) 673-6038
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