Oregon DFW to Host Family Fishing Event at Mt. Hood Pond
OutdoorHub 05.13.13
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is hosting a Family Fishing event Saturday, May 18 at Mt. Hood Pond in Gresham.
This event is part of the ODFW Outdoors program and is designed to introduce young people and their families to the sport of trout fishing. The department will loan out rods, reels, and tackle to individuals who are learning to fish or do not have their own gear. Participants are welcome to bring their own equipment if they prefer. The department will also provide bait.
The Family Fishing event is free and open to the public. ODFW staff and volunteers will be on hand to help participants learn how to bait the hook, cast the rod and land the fish. Volunteers will even help clean the catch.
“A few simple techniques is all it takes to build the foundation for a lifetime of fishing enjoyment,” said Jeff Fulop, supervising biologist for the Family Fishing event, hosted by 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.”
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. Mt. Hood Pond is a five-acre pond located on the Mt. Hood Community College Campus in Gresham, at 2600 SE Stark Street.
Under the 2013 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations, anglers aged 13 and under do not need a fishing license, while those 14-17 must possess a Juvenile Angling License, which can be purchased from any ODFW office or license agent for $9. Licenses will not be sold at the Family Fishing event so those who need them should plan to purchase them ahead of time.
