CLACKAMAS, Ore. — Oregon’s popular two-rod fishing validation will be extended to include the Willamette River and its tributaries this spring under temporary rules adopted by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Effective April 1-July 31, 2016, anglers who have a two-rod validation will be able to use two rods while fishing in waters open to angling for salmon, steelhead, trout, or warmwater game fish in the Willamette River and its tributaries. However, angling for sturgeon remains restricted to a single rod per angler. All other Willamette Zone rules and regulations remain in effect.

Two-rod validations have been available to Oregon anglers for several years. For $21, licensed anglers can purchase a validation that allows them to use a second rod in certain locations of the state, primarily ponds and lakes. If you have already purchased a two-rod validation in 2016, it is valid for any waters open to the use of two rods, which now includes the Willamette River and its tributaries. Kids under the age of 12 do not need a 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 ODFW’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 strict quota and Endangered Species Act limits, ODFW will closely monitor the effect of the Willamette rule change and may make adjustments if necessary, though this is not anticipated.