Spring chinook anglers in the Willamette River, including Multnomah Channel, will be able to fish with two rods beginning Friday under temporary rules announced by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.
A two-rod validation costs $21 in Oregon. For several years, licensed anglers have been able to buy the two-rod validation, which allowed the use of a second rod primarily in ponds and lakes.
However effective Friday through July 31, the two-rod validation will apply to the Willamette River and its tributaries. Fishing for sturgeon in the Willamette remains restricted to a single rod per angler.
Youth age 11 and younger do not need the validation to use a second rod.
“Anglers have told us they would like the option of being able to use two rods in more areas, and we believe that the Willamette provides a good opportunity,’’ said Mike Gauvin, manager of Oregon’s recreational fishing program. “In addition to the Willamette, we are considering extending two-rod fishing in 2016 to other flowing waters of the state, including some coastal rivers and bays.’’
After this trial season, fishery managers will evaluate the effects of the change and consider additional opportunities.
Because the Willamette spring chinook fishery is managed under a quota and Endangered Species Act limits, Oregon’s Department of Fish and Wildlife will closely monitor the effect of the Willamette rule change and may make adjustments if necessary, though this is not anticipated.
Many Clark County anglers launch at Ridgefield Marina and make the short trip across the Columbia River to fish in Multnomah Channel, the portion of the Willamette that flows on the west side of Sauvie Island.
In Southwest Washington, two waters allow two rods beginning May 1.
In the Wind River from the boundary markers to the state Highway 14 Bridge and in Drano Lake, holders of a two-rod endorsement can fish with a second rod. The two-rod rule applies through June 30.
A two-rod endorsement in Washington costs $14.80.
