ORS § 508.240 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.240
508.240 Acts by commercial fishing licensee prohibited
Status: in_force

It is unlawful for any person licensed to take food fish for commercial purposes, as required under ORS 508.035 (Separate licenses required for certain fishing gear and activities) , to:

(1) Keep any food fish the person takes under such license for personal use; or

(2) Sell any food fish the person takes under such license to other than a wholesaler, canner, fish bait dealer or buyer licensed as required under ORS 508.035 (Separate licenses required for certain fishing gear and activities) . [1965 c.570 §77a; 1971 c.540 §6]

Source: Section 508.240 — Acts by commercial fishing licensee prohibited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 509.510 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 509 / Section 509.510
509.510 Taking shellfish from marked beds without permission
Status: in_force

It is unlawful, without the permission of the legal occupants, to take up shellfish from natural or artificially planted beds, which beds have been lawfully and plainly marked. It is unlawful willfully to disturb the shellfish in such beds, the surfaces of such beds, or the markers. [Formerly 509.475]

Source: Section 509.510 — Taking shellfish from marked beds without permission; disturbing beds , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors509.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.898 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.898
508.898 Permit revocation procedure
Status: in_force

The Commercial Fishery Permit Board may revoke and refuse subsequent issuance of a permit required by ORS 508.880 (Vessel permit required to engage in fishery) in the manner provided in ORS 508.485 (Revocation of license or permit for violation of commercial fishing laws or rules or theft of crab fishing gear) (1) and 508.490 (Refusal to issue license or permit pursuant to commercial fishing laws within two years after revocation) . [1979 c.613 §18; 2013 c.164 §5]

Source: Section 508.898 — Permit revocation procedure , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 513.020 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 513 / Section 513.020
513.020 Control and regulation of means of handling fish and fish products
Status: in_force

In order that all fish or parts thereof suitable for human consumption may be conserved and used for that purpose, and to provide sanitary methods and prevent waste in the use, sale, packing, preserving, manufacturing, processing or other handling of fish or fish products, other than salmon, the State Fish and Wildlife Commission may control and regulate fishing boats, barges, lighters or tenders, receptacles or vehicles containing fish or fishing gear, fish reduction plants or plants where fish products are manufactured, in so far as may be necessary to insure the taking, catching, delivery of fish, canning, packing, preserving, reduction of and manufacture of fish products or by-products in a wholesome and sanitary manner, and to prevent deterioration or waste of any fish.

Source: Section 513.020 — Control and regulation of means of handling fish and fish products , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors513.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.045 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.045
506.045 Fishing rights of treaty Indians not affected
Status: in_force

There are excluded from the operation of ORS 506.129 (Establishing seasons, amounts and manner of taking food fish) , 506.136 (Commission to study and classify food fish and fishing gear) , 507.030 (Modification of Oregon-Washington Columbia River fish compact) , 508.025 (License required to take, process or deal in fish) , 508.285 (License fees) and 509.025 (Selling or transporting food fish taken by angling) (1), any Warm Springs, Umatilla, Yakima, Wasco, Tenino, Wyum and other Columbia River Indians affiliated with these tribes and entitled to enjoy fishing rights, who have not severed their tribal relations, in so far as it would conflict with any rights or privileges granted to such Indians under the terms of the treaties made by the United States with the Warm Springs Indians on June 25, 1855, and with the Umatilla and Yakima Indians on June 9, 1855. [Formerly 506.195; 1975 c.545 §11; 1977 c.242 §3; 2013 c.672 §2]

Source: Section 506.045 — Fishing rights of treaty Indians not affected , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.886 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.886
508.886 Limitation on number of permits
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, until the number of vessel permits required by ORS 508.880 (Vessel permit required to engage in fishery) reaches 235:

(1) For calendar year 1987, those persons who delivered pink shrimp by use of a single delivery license referred to in ORS 508.285 (License fees) during calendar year 1986 are eligible to obtain a permit.

(2) For calendar year 1988, those persons who deliver pink shrimp from their own boats by use of a single delivery license referred to in ORS 508.285 (License fees) during calendar year 1987 are eligible to obtain a permit, giving priority in the order of the date of delivery. [1987 c.912 §11]

Source: Section 508.886 — Limitation on number of permits; eligibility , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 511.070 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 511 / Section 511.070
511.070 Open season for chum salmon and incidental take of salmon in Tillamook Bay
Status: in_force

It shall be lawful for the State Fish and Wildlife Commission by rule to establish a season for commercial fishing for chum salmon and the incidental take of salmon in Tillamook Bay. Such season may not exceed 30 calendar days total length each year and may only be between October 25 and December 5. Fishing areas under this section shall be limited to:

(1) Tillamook Bay except that portion of Hathaway Slough above a line extended due south from a point on the northerly bank or shoreline of the slough 1,000 feet downstream from the Southern Pacific railroad trestle.

(2) The Miami River below a line drawn across the Miami River due north and south through a point 1,000 feet west from the northwest corner of the Southern Pacific railroad bridge crossing the Miami River.

(3) The Kilchis River below a point at the intersection of the Kilchis River by the section line between sections 11 and 12, township 1 south, range 10 west of the Willamette Meridian.

(4) The Wilson River below a point 500 feet below the bridge crossing the Wilson River in section 13, township 1 south, range 10 west of the Willamette Meridian.

(5) The Tillamook River below a point 100 feet below the mouth of Frasier Slough. [1965 c.570 §144]

Source: Section 511.070 — Open season for chum salmon and incidental take of salmon in Tillamook Bay; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors511.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.535 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.535
508.535 Keeping record of food fish received and bought
Status: in_force

(1) Every fish canner, fish buyer, retail fish dealer, fish bait dealer or wholesale fish dealer shall keep a record, of all food fish received and bought, in accordance with rules promulgated by the State Fish and Wildlife Commission. Such information may be required as is necessary to enable the commission to carry out its duties of conservation, protection, administration or enforcement under the commercial fishing laws without imposing undue hardship on the licensees.

(2) At least one copy of this record shall be kept:

(a) On each boat, vessel, scow, pickup boat or other craft, truck, automobile, motor vehicle or other vehicle of any kind whatsoever used in buying, receiving or transporting the fish.

(b) By the canner, buyer, retailer, fish bait dealer or wholesaler.

(3) This record is subject to inspection by the commissioners, the State Fish and Wildlife Director, the authorized agent of the director, or any duly authorized police officer. This record shall be transmitted to the office of the director at such times and in such manner as the commission directs.

(4) Every person shall always keep open to inspection by the commission or its agent any books, records, papers or memoranda which are pertinent to the administration of ORS 508.505 (Additional fees based on value of fish at time of landing) to 508.540 (Failure to keep or submit records or to pay fee) . For the purpose of ascertaining the correctness of any fee record or report or the number of pounds or value of fish upon which the additional fee is based or such other information as may be necessary to the administration of ORS 508.505 (Additional fees based on value of fish at time of landing) to 508.540 (Failure to keep or submit records or to pay fee) , the commission or its agent may inspect such books, records, papers or memoranda.

(5) Restaurants licensed under ORS 624.020 (License) shall keep a record of all fresh or frozen fish received or bought while such fish are in the restaurant’s possession. This record shall be subject to inspection by the commissioners, the director, the authorized agent of the director, or any duly authorized police officer. An invoice or receipt shall be adequate for the purposes of this subsection. [Formerly 508.340; 1969 c.172 §5; 1971 c.540 §11; 1973 c.437 §1; 1977 c.242 §5; 1991 c.701 §9]

Source: Section 508.535 — Keeping record of food fish received and bought; inspection , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.036 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.036
506.036 Jurisdiction of commission
Status: in_force

(1) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (4) of this section and in ORS 506.045 (Fishing rights of treaty Indians not affected) and 506.050 (Federal and state fish cultural operations and scientific investigations) , the State Fish and Wildlife Commission has exclusive jurisdiction over all fish, shellfish, and all other animals living intertidally on the bottom, within the waters of this state. The commission has joint or other jurisdiction with any other state or government over all such fishes within the waters of the Columbia River and its tributaries where such waters form the boundaries of this state.

(2) The commission has jurisdiction over those species of fish, shellfish and all other animals living intertidally on the bottom referred to in subsection (1) of this section transported into or landed in this state which have been taken in waters outside this state.

(3) The duty of protection, preservation, propagation, cultivation, development and promotion of all fishes under its jurisdiction is delegated to and imposed upon the commission.

(4) The commission has no regulatory authority or jurisdiction over the commercial cultivation of oysters in the waters of this state. However, nothing in this subsection is intended to affect the authority of the commission under ORS 509.140 (Placing explosives or harmful substances in waters in course of lawful work) . [1965 c.570 §8; 1975 c.253 §20; 1981 c.638 §13; 1983 c.364 §3]

Source: Section 506.036 — Jurisdiction of commission; duty to protect and propagate fish , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.720 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.720
508.720 Altering terms of permits
Status: in_force

(1) If the State Fish and Wildlife Commission finds that the operation described in the permit is not in the best public interest, it shall alter the conditions of the permit to mitigate such adverse effects or may cause an orderly termination of the operation under the permit. Proceedings to cause such alteration or termination shall be conducted in accordance with ORS chapter 183. An orderly termination shall not exceed a four-year period and shall culminate in the revocation of the permit in its entirety. During this period the permittee may continue to examine and take specified propagated chum salmon, chinook salmon, silver salmon or pink salmon according to the provisions of the permit but may not release additional fish.

(2) If the commission finds the operation has caused deterioration of the natural run of anadromous fish or any population of resident game fish in the waters covered by the permit, it may require the permittee to return the fish populations to the same condition that existed prior to issuance of the permit. If the permittee fails to take appropriate action, the commission shall take such action and the permittee shall bear any cost incurred by the commission. [1971 c.203 §6; 1973 c.356 §2; 1975 c.253 §32; 1979 c.556 §2; 1989 c.817 §2]

Source: Section 508.720 — Altering terms of permits; findings; hearing; restoration of fish population , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.321 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.321
506.321 Acceptance and use of gifts of money and property to commission
Status: in_force

The State Fish and Wildlife Commission may accept gifts of money, lands or other property and use the same for the protection, preservation, propagation and development of the fishery resource, subject to the terms of the gift. Subject to such terms the gifts may be used or exchanged for the acquisition of other lands, waters, rights, easements or other property. Any moneys received under this section not otherwise appropriated hereby are appropriated for such purposes. [Formerly 506.235]

Source: Section 506.321 — Acceptance and use of gifts of money and property to commission , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.480 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.480
508.480 Failure to construct or install fishing gear held to be abandonment
Status: in_force

Should the holder of any license neglect to construct or install at the site the fishing gear called for by the license during two consecutive years covered by the license, the location shall be deemed abandoned. [Amended by 1965 c.570 §73]

Source: Section 508.480 — Failure to construct or install fishing gear held to be abandonment , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.511 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.511
506.511 State police to enforce commercial fishing laws
Status: in_force

(1) The Department of State Police shall employ a sufficient number of state police to perform the duties required in the enforcement of criminal provisions of the commercial fishing laws.

(2) The Superintendent of State Police may appoint special enforcement officers authorized to enforce the commercial fishing laws. Individuals so appointed must be special agents of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service or the National Marine Fisheries Service, and shall serve at the pleasure of the superintendent without additional compensation. Each such special enforcement officer shall have all powers and authority of a peace officer of this state in serving warrants, subpoenas and other legal process in enforcement of the commercial fishing laws. [1965 c.570 §36; 1983 c.364 §5; 2003 c.14 §338]

Source: Section 506.511 — State police to enforce commercial fishing laws; appointment of federal agents , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.710 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.710
508.710 Grounds for denial of permit
Status: in_force

No permit shall be issued:

(1) Which may tend to deplete any natural run of anadromous fish or any population of resident game fish.

(2) Which may result in waste or deterioration of fish.

(3) If the proposed operation is to be located on the same stream or river or tributary thereof on which a state or federal fish culture facility is established or is planned to be established.

(4) If the proposed operation is not consistent with sound resource management and is not in close proximity to the ocean.

(5) If the State Fish and Wildlife Commission determines the applicant does not have the financial capability to successfully construct and operate the hatchery or may not properly conduct the operation authorized under the permit. [1971 c.203 §3]

Source: Section 508.710 — Grounds for denial of permit , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 511.060 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 511 / Section 511.060
511.060 Taking salmon for commercial purposes in coastal streams prohibited
Status: in_force

It is unlawful to take salmon for commercial purposes from all waters inland from the mouth of all streams or tributaries thereof that empty into the Pacific Ocean south of the mouth of the Columbia River, except as provided in ORS 511.070 (Open season for chum salmon and incidental take of salmon in Tillamook Bay) . [1965 c.570 §143]

Source: Section 511.060 — Taking salmon for commercial purposes in coastal streams prohibited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors511.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 513.010 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 513 / Section 513.010
513.010 “Reduction plant” defined
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, “reduction plant” applies to any plant engaged in the reduction of fish into fish flour, fish meal, fish scrap, fertilizer, fish oil or other fish products or by-products.

Source: Section 513.010 — “Reduction plant” defined , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors513.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.880 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.880
508.880 Vessel permit required to engage in fishery
Status: in_force

(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of the commercial fishing laws, it is unlawful for an individual to operate a vessel in the ocean pink shrimp fishery without first obtaining a vessel permit issued pursuant to ORS 508.880 (Vessel permit required to engage in fishery) , 508.883 (Use of single delivery license in lieu of vessel permit) and 508.889 (Issuance of permits limited) to 508.910 (Review of permit denial) .

(2) Notwithstanding any other provision of the commercial fishing laws, it is unlawful for a wholesaler, canner or buyer to buy or receive pink shrimp (Pandalus jordani) taken in the ocean pink shrimp fishery from a vessel for which the permit required by subsection (1) of this section or the license required by ORS 508.883 (Use of single delivery license in lieu of vessel permit) has not been issued.

(3) The permit required by subsection (1) of this section is in addition to and not in lieu of the boat license required by ORS 508.260 (Boat license) . [1979 c.613 §13; 1981 c.365 §5]

Source: Section 508.880 — Vessel permit required to engage in fishery; purchase of shrimp by dealers from individual without permit prohibited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.001 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.001
506.001 Contents of commercial fishing laws
Status: in_force

All laws enacted for the protection, propagation and preservation of food fish or for the protection and development of commercial fisheries in this state, including but not limited to ORS chapters 506, 507, 508, 509, 511 and 513, may be cited as the commercial fishing laws. [1965 c.570 §2]

Source: Section 506.001 — Contents of commercial fishing laws , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 509.235 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 509 / Section 509.235
509.235 Certain sturgeon lines prohibited
Status: in_force

It is unlawful to use or assist in using any Chinese sturgeon line, or lines of a similar character, in the waters of this state. [Amended by 1965 c.570 §119]

Source: Section 509.235 — Certain sturgeon lines prohibited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors509.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.535 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.535
506.535 Jurisdiction of courts over commercial fishing law violations
Status: in_force

(1) Unless otherwise specifically provided, justice courts have concurrent jurisdiction in the first instance with circuit courts of all offenses under the commercial fishing laws.

(2) Any action or proceedings under the commercial fishing laws shall be commenced on order of the State Fish and Wildlife Commission or a person duly authorized to enforce such laws, or by any district attorney, in the county in which the offense is alleged to have been committed. [Amended by 1965 c.570 §43]

Source: Section 506.535 — Jurisdiction of courts over commercial fishing law violations; commencement of prosecutions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.715 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.715
508.715 Conditions of permits
Status: in_force

Any permit granted by the State Fish and Wildlife Commission pursuant to ORS 508.700 (Permits for salmon hatcheries) to 508.745 (Disposition of moneys received under ORS 508.700 to 508.745) shall contain at least the following conditions:

(1) All propagated fish released into state waters shall be marked annually at no less than the level of marking of the same species of fish by hatcheries operated by the commission for the purpose of determining contributions to ocean fisheries.

(2) All propagated coho and chinook salmon released into state waters shall be marked annually, consistent with subsection (8) of this section, at a minimum level necessary to determine the proportion of straying of hatchery coho and chinook salmon into the spawning beds of natural and hatchery produced native stocks of salmon. However, the commission shall not require private hatcheries to meet marking standards that the commission would not apply to its own operations in similar circumstances.

(3) Prior to release into state waters, the fish must be subject to examination by a qualified fish pathologist approved by the commission to determine that they are not diseased or infected with any disease which in the opinion of the commission may be detrimental to the state fishery resources. Cost of such examination shall be paid by the permittee. No fish shall be released without written approval from the commission. The commission may require diseased fish to be destroyed. The commission shall not suffer civil or criminal liability for any fish destroyed under this section.

(4) The permittee may be authorized by the commission to divert all fish returning to the stream to an inspection area, the location of such area to be approved by the commission, to examine all fish for the purpose of identifying propagated fish.

(5) Notwithstanding the provisions of ORS chapters 509 and 511, the permittee shall have the right to take for commercial purposes, only those fish the commission determines were propagated by the permittee, and the commission’s decision is final.

(6) It shall be unlawful for the permittee to select stocks of fish or to genetically alter the life history or habits of propagated fish in a way the State Department of Fish and Wildlife determines is inconsistent with the provisions of ORS 496.012 (Wildlife policy) or 506.109 (Food fish management policy) .

(7) It shall be unlawful for the permittee to conduct any activity not authorized by the permit or fail to conduct activities required by the permit without approval of the commission after public hearings.

(8) The permittee shall pay all reasonable costs incurred by the commission as a result of the operation of the private hatchery. [1971 c.203 §5; 1979 c.556 §5; 1985 c.529 §1; 1989 c.817 §1]

Source: Section 508.715 — Conditions of permits , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 511.521 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 511 / Section 511.521
511.521 Taking shad or sturgeon for commercial purposes in Coquille River waters prohibited
Status: in_force

It is unlawful to take shad or sturgeon for commercial purposes from the waters of the Coquille River or any of its bays or tributaries. [1989 c.127 §3]

NESTUCCA, NETARTS AND TILLAMOOK BAY AREAS

Source: Section 511.521 — Taking shad or sturgeon for commercial purposes in Coquille River waters prohibited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors511.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.460 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.460
506.460 Developmental fishery species harvest programs
Status: in_force

In consultation with the Developmental Fisheries Board, the State Fish and Wildlife Commission shall:

(1) Establish an annual list of food fish species that are considered to be developmental fishery species.

(2) Establish and review commercial harvest programs for developmental fishery species.

(3) Establish methods to obtain biological information necessary to determine the long term sustainability of the resource.

(4) Establish limited entry harvest systems for developmental fisheries. An annual fee of not more than $100 to participate in a developmental fishery may be charged by the commission.

(5) Issue permits for developmental fisheries within 14 days of receiving a written request for a permit. [1993 c.765 §118]

Source: Section 506.460 — Developmental fishery species harvest programs; biological surveys; permits; fees , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.550 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.550
506.550 Search by peace officers to enforce commercial fishing laws
Status: in_force

The officers mentioned in ORS 506.521 (Enforcement of commercial fishing laws) may search and examine all places where food fish may be kept, sold or secreted and examine all packages, boxes and bundles held either for storage or shipment which they have reason to believe contain evidence of violation of the commercial fishing laws. [Amended by 1965 c.570 §50]

Source: Section 506.550 — Search by peace officers to enforce commercial fishing laws , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 509.155 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 509 / Section 509.155
509.155 Possession of fish taken by explosives or harmful substance justifies arrest
Status: in_force

Having in possession any food fish under circumstances which make it reasonable to believe that they were taken by means of explosives or substances deleterious to fish justifies the arrest of the person having the fish in possession. It is then incumbent upon such person to prove and show that the fish were taken by lawful means. [Amended by 1965 c.570 §115]

Source: Section 509.155 — Possession of fish taken by explosives or harmful substance justifies arrest; burden of proof , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors509.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.705 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.705
508.705 Hearing for permits
Status: in_force

(1) Prior to issuance of any permit by the State Fish and Wildlife Commission, a public hearing shall be held. Notice of the hearing shall be published at least once and at least 10 days prior to the hearing in a newspaper of general circulation in each of the counties in which the hearing is to be held, or if no such newspaper is published in that county or counties, then such a newspaper in an adjoining county.

(2) The hearing shall be conducted by either the commission or a representative designated by the commission. [1971 c.203 §2; 1975 c.253 §31]

Source: Section 508.705 — Hearing for permits , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.864 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.864
508.864 Permit transfer restrictions
Status: in_force

(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, an ocean scallop vessel permit issued pursuant to ORS 508.840 (Vessel permit required to engage in fishery) to 508.867 (Review of permit denial) may not be transferred to another vessel:

(a) Until the vessel for which the permit was issued has been used in the ocean scallop fishery for three or more calendar years to land at least 5,000 pounds of food fish annually.

(b) More than once in any 12-month period. However, the Commercial Fishery Permit Board may waive the waiting period if the board finds that strict adherence to the waiting period would create undue hardship for the individual seeking transfer of the permit.

(c) That is more than five feet longer than the vessel from which the permit is transferred.

(2) A fee of $100 shall be charged for each transfer of a vessel permit under this section. [1981 c.365 §33; 1995 c.602 §20; 2009 c.832 §37]

Source: Section 508.864 — Permit transfer restrictions; fee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.025 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.025
506.025 “Unlawful to buy” defined
Status: in_force

Whenever the commercial fishing laws state that it is unlawful to buy any food fish, illegally taken, this prohibition means that it is unlawful to buy, knowing or having reasonable cause to believe that the fish have been illegally taken or transported within this state, or unlawfully imported or otherwise unlawfully brought into this state. [Amended by 1965 c.570 §6]

Source: Section 506.025 — “Unlawful to buy” defined , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 509.019 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 509 / Section 509.019
509.019 Consumption of catch at sea lawful without payment of fee
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, an individual lawfully engaged in commercial fishing, while at sea, may consume a portion of the lawful commercial catch, without payment of the fees required under ORS 508.505 (Additional fees based on value of fish at time of landing) . [1987 c.178 §2; 1991 c.701 §18]

Source: Section 509.019 — Consumption of catch at sea lawful without payment of fee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors509.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.016 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.016
506.016 “Salmon” defined
Status: in_force

As used in the commercial fishing laws, “salmon” means all anadromous species of salmon, including but not limited to:

(1) Oncorhynchus gorbuscha, commonly known as humpback, humpies or pink salmon.

(2) Oncorhynchus keta, commonly known as chum or dog salmon.

(3) Oncorhynchus kisutch, commonly known as coho or silver salmon.

(4) Oncorhynchus nerka, commonly known as sockeye, red or blueback salmon.

(5) Oncorhynchus tshawytscha, commonly known as chinook salmon. [1965 c.570 §5; 1969 c.411 §1]

Source: Section 506.016 — “Salmon” defined , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 509.011 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 509 / Section 509.011
509.011 Prohibited activities during closed season
Status: in_force

(1) It is unlawful, during a closed season on any of the waters of this state, to:

(a) Take or transport food fish taken in or upon such waters.

(b) Make use of a boat or any fishing gear to take or transport food fish taken in such waters.

(c) Have, leave or cause to be left in such waters any fishing gear in a condition to take food fish.

(2) It is unlawful to:

(a) Buy, receive, possess or sell food fish unlawfully caught during a closed season.

(b) Make use of a vehicle of any kind whatsoever for transporting, or intended to be used for transporting, in any place, food fish unlawfully taken during a closed season, or unlawfully brought into this state. [1965 c.570 §93]

Source: Section 509.011 — Prohibited activities during closed season , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors509.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.718 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.718
508.718 Program for protecting natural runs and genetic diversity of anadromous fish stocks
Status: in_force

(1) The Legislative Assembly finds that protecting the natural runs and genetic diversity of anadromous fish is essential to the long-term health of Oregon’s natural resources and sport and commercial fisheries.

(2) Not later than January 1, 1990, the State Department of Fish and Wildlife shall:

(a) Develop and implement monitoring programs, consistent with ORS 508.715 (Conditions of permits) (8) at a minimum level necessary to determine the proportion of straying of hatchery fish into the spawning beds of natural and hatchery produced native stocks of salmon.

(b) Utilizing the best available scientific evidence, adopt rules, after public hearing, that determine the proportion of straying that by indicator stock is likely to cause deterioration of the genetic diversity and habitat necessary to maintain long-term species viability or that causes a deterioration of natural or native stocks of salmon.

(3) The Legislative Assembly further finds that private hatcheries are a significant part of Oregon’s salmon resource and that the Legislative Assembly relies on the State Fish and Wildlife Commission to monitor and regulate private hatcheries in a way that will optimize their long-term contribution to Oregon’s salmon resource in conformity with the findings under subsection (1) of this section. [1989 c.817 §5; 1995 c.79 §295]

Source: Section 508.718 — Program for protecting natural runs and genetic diversity of anadromous fish stocks; rules; findings , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 511.206 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 511 / Section 511.206
511.206 Taking food fish for commercial purposes in or near Rogue River prohibited
Status: in_force

It is unlawful to take any food fish except shellfish for commercial purposes from the Rogue River and its tributaries and within a radius of one mile from the center of the mouth of the Rogue River. [1965 c.570 §148; 1995 c.269 §1]

Source: Section 511.206 — Taking food fish for commercial purposes in or near Rogue River prohibited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors511.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.270 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.270
508.270 Fishing, boat license fees in lieu of other taxes and licenses on crab pots
Status: in_force

(1) Either the commercial fishing license required by ORS 508.235 (Commercial fishing license) or the boat license required by ORS 508.260 (Boat license) is in lieu of all taxes and licenses on crab pots used by a person so licensed or used in connection with a boat so licensed.

(2) Crab pots shall be reported to the county assessor by each owner and listed for ad valorem taxation, but if the owner of such crab pots furnishes documentary proof to the assessor, not later than August 1 of each year, that the owner possesses a current commercial fishing license under ORS 508.235 (Commercial fishing license) or that the boat of the owner is currently licensed under ORS 508.260 (Boat license) , the assessor shall cancel any assessment made by the assessor of crab pots used by such person or used in connection with such person’s licensed boat. [1969 c.649 §2; 1993 c.270 §69]

Source: Section 508.270 — Fishing, boat license fees in lieu of other taxes and licenses on crab pots; reports to county assessor , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 509.130 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 509 / Section 509.130
509.130 Placing substances in water or using explosives to take or destroy food fish
Status: in_force

It is unlawful, for the purpose of taking or destroying any food fish, to:

(1) Throw, cast or pass, or cause or permit to be thrown, cast or passed, in any waters of this state in which food fishes are wont to be, any substance deleterious to fish; or

(2) Explode or cause to be exploded in any waters of this state, any explosives. [Amended by 1963 c.112 §1; 1965 c.570 §112]

Source: Section 509.130 — Placing substances in water or using explosives to take or destroy food fish , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors509.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 513.040 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 513 / Section 513.040
513.040 Control and regulation of amount and kind of fish commercially handled
Status: in_force

The State Fish and Wildlife Commission may:

(1) Control, regulate and establish, by order, the proportion or percentage of sardines, pilchards, herring or other species of fish other than salmon, to be used for reduction purposes or the manufacture of fish flour, fish meal, fish scrap, fertilizer or oil, and may further, through such order, specifically name or prescribe the particular species of fish which may be used for reduction purposes, food for animals or other purposes.

(2) Exercise full jurisdiction and control over the processing, packing or preserving of sardines, and prescribe and specify the process to be used in the canning of such fishes in order to assure a quality product and prevent the use of certain substitute oils resulting in inferior grades.

Source: Section 513.040 — Control and regulation of amount and kind of fish commercially handled; sardine processing , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors513.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.846 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.846
508.846 Issuance of permits restricted
Status: in_force

Except as provided in ORS 508.861 (Lottery system for permit issuance) , no new vessel permits shall be issued. [1981 c.365 §27; 1989 c.940 §9; 1995 c.602 §17]

Source: Section 508.846 — Issuance of permits restricted , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 509.415 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 509 / Section 509.415
509.415 Gear used in taking crab
Status: in_force

(1) No person shall take a crab from any of the waters of the state for commercial purposes, with or by the use of any other gear than that specifically known as crab ring or crab pot, or sell or offer for sale crabs unlawfully caught.

(2) The taking of Dungeness crab (Cancer magister) for commercial purposes from any of the waters of this state, by the use of any gear except that commonly known as crab ring or crab pot, is prohibited.

(3) Each crab ring or crab pot used for the taking of crabs for commercial purposes must have attached to it a tag identifying the owner or the vessel from which the rings or pots are operated. [Amended by 1997 c.252 §2]

Source: Section 509.415 — Gear used in taking crab; selling crabs unlawfully taken , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors509.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.635 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.635
506.635 Execution for payment of fines and costs
Status: in_force

Any fishing gear used in violation of the commercial fishing laws, including boats or vehicles of any kind and other appliances, is subject to execution for the payment of fines and costs provided for in the commercial fishing laws. [1965 c.570 §55]

Source: Section 506.635 — Execution for payment of fines and costs , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 509.355 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 509 / Section 509.355
509.355 Definitions for ORS 509.355 to 509.385
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 509.355 (Definitions for ORS 509.355 to 509.385) to 509.385 (Exceptions) :

(1) “Citizen of this state” means a person who maintains the usual place of abode of the person within this state or who otherwise qualifies as a citizen of this state under the laws of this state.

(2) “International waters” means waters outside the territorial boundaries of any state, territory or country. [1957 c.152 §1]

Source: Section 509.355 — Definitions for ORS 509.355 to 509.385 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors509.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.124 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.124
506.124 Hatchery practice rules
Status: in_force

The State Fish and Wildlife Commission shall adopt rules governing public and private salmon hatchery practices by July 1, 1984. The commission shall also submit quarterly reports to the Emergency Board on matters related to the adoption of rules and the impact of hatchery practices on the salmon resource. [1983 c.797 §8]

Source: Section 506.124 — Hatchery practice rules; reports , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.781 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.781
508.781 Renewal of permit
Status: in_force

An individual who obtained the permit required by ORS 508.775 (Vessel permit required to engage in fishery) for a particular calendar year is eligible to obtain renewal of the permit in a subsequent calendar year, upon application and payment of the fees therefor by December 31 of the permit year or by such date as may be specified by rule of the State Department of Fish and Wildlife. [1979 c.679 §4; 1981 c.365 §12; 1995 c.602 §6; 2007 c.768 §7]

Source: Section 508.781 — Renewal of permit; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.312 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.312
508.312 Commercial bait fishing license
Status: in_force

(1) Any individual may obtain a commercial bait fishing license to take food fish for sale to a fish bait dealer licensed under ORS 508.306 (Fish bait dealer license) .

(2) The license for the purpose authorized in this section is in lieu of the commercial fishing and boat licenses required under ORS 508.235 (Commercial fishing license) and 508.260 (Boat license) . [1971 c.540 §3]

Source: Section 508.312 — Commercial bait fishing license; license in lieu of commercial fishing and boat licenses , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.111 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.111
508.111 Permit to take food fish for educational and scientific purposes
Status: in_force

The State Fish and Wildlife Director may issue to any person a permit to take food fish solely for educational and scientific purposes. [1965 c.570 §64a]

Source: Section 508.111 — Permit to take food fish for educational and scientific purposes , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.957 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.957
508.957 Permit transfer restrictions
Status: in_force

(1) A black rockfish and blue rockfish vessel permit with a nearshore fish endorsement issued under ORS 508.947 (Eligibility for permit) may be transferred to another vessel if:

(a) The permit has been renewed a minimum of five times; and

(b) The vessel operating under the permit has made, in the previous calendar year, a minimum of five landings that contained at least 15 pounds of black rockfish, blue rockfish or nearshore fish.

(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, a black rockfish and blue rockfish vessel permit with a nearshore fish endorsement:

(a) May be transferred one time per calendar year to a replacement vessel that is owned by the same person that owns the vessel to which the permit was originally issued.

(b) That is issued to a vessel owned by a sole proprietor may be transferred upon the death of the sole proprietor.

(3) A black rockfish and blue rockfish vessel permit with a nearshore fish endorsement may not be transferred to a vessel that is more than five feet longer than the vessel to which the permit was originally issued.

(4) A black rockfish and blue rockfish vessel permit issued under ORS 508.947 (Eligibility for permit) :

(a) May be transferred to another vessel except as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection.

(b) May not be transferred to a vessel that is more than five feet longer than the vessel to which the permit was originally issued.

(5) A fee of $100 shall be charged for each transfer of a vessel permit under this section. [2003 c.809 §8; 2009 c.832 §45]

Source: Section 508.957 — Permit transfer restrictions; fee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.129 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.129
506.129 Establishing seasons, amounts and manner of taking food fish
Status: in_force

(1) After investigation of the supply and condition of food fish, the State Fish and Wildlife Commission, at appropriate times each year, shall by rule:

(a) Prescribe the times, places and manner in which food fish may be taken or sold, except when canned or otherwise processed, and the amount of those food fish species that may be taken or sold.

(b) Prescribe such other restrictions or procedures regarding the taking, selling or possessing of food fish as the commission determines will carry out the provisions of the commercial fishing laws.

(2) In carrying out the provisions of subsection (1) of this section, the power of the commission includes, but is not limited to:

(a) Prescribing the amount of each food fish species that may be taken and possessed in terms of sex, size and other physical characteristics.

(b) Prescribing such regular and special time periods and areas closed to the taking and selling of any food fish species when the commission determines such action is necessary to protect the supply of such food fish.

(c) Prescribing regular and special time periods and areas open to the taking and selling of any food fish species, and prescribing means by which the taking of food fish is permitted. [1975 c.253 §16]

Source: Section 506.129 — Establishing seasons, amounts and manner of taking food fish; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.470 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.470
508.470 When licenses expire
Status: in_force

All licenses for which fees are provided for under ORS 508.285 (License fees) unless otherwise specified in law expire as of midnight, December 31, following the dates of their issuance or on such date as may be specified by rule of the State Department of Fish and Wildlife. The licenses may be renewed annually thereafter upon application and payment of fees required therefor. [Amended by 1959 c.123 §1; 1961 c.374 §3; 1963 c.196 §7; 1965 c.570 §71; 1977 c.245 §4; 1979 c.679 §12; 2007 c.768 §6]

Source: Section 508.470 — When licenses expire; renewal , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 511.011 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 511 / Section 511.011
511.011 “Mouth” of river defined
Status: in_force

The “mouth” of any river emptying into the Pacific Ocean including the bay or tidal area formed by each such river is the seaward end of the jetty or jetties of each such river. If no jetties exist, the extension of the Pacific Ocean, shoreline high watermark across the river, bay or tidal area, is the “mouth” of such river. [1965 c.570 §139]

Source: Section 511.011 — “Mouth” of river defined , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors511.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.908 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.908
508.908 Limits on authority of Commercial Fishery Permit Board to prohibit transfer of valid pink shrimp vessel permits
Status: in_force

The Commercial Fishery Permit Board may not prohibit the transfer under ORS 508.907 (Permit transfer restrictions) of a valid ocean pink shrimp vessel permit on the basis that:

(1) The vessel for which the permit was issued did not participate in the ocean pink shrimp fishery for three or more preceding consecutive years to annually land at least 5,000 pounds of shrimp in Oregon, California or Washington; or

(2) The holder of the permit did not obtain an exemption from the catch requirement. [1999 c.165 §4]

Note: 508.908 (Limits on authority of Commercial Fishery Permit Board to prohibit transfer of valid pink shrimp vessel permits) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 508 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 508.908 — Limits on authority of Commercial Fishery Permit Board to prohibit transfer of valid pink shrimp vessel permits , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.775 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.775
508.775 Vessel permit required to engage in fishery
Status: in_force

(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of the commercial fishing laws, it is unlawful for an individual to operate a vessel in the Columbia River gillnet salmon fishery without first obtaining a vessel permit issued pursuant to ORS 508.775 (Vessel permit required to engage in fishery) to 508.796 (Review of permit denial) . However, an individual who holds valid commercial fishing licenses and vessel permits required by and issued pursuant to the laws of the State of Washington for commercial salmon fishing in the Columbia River may land salmon in this state that were taken in the Columbia River gillnet salmon fishery without the permit otherwise required by this subsection.

(2) Notwithstanding any other provision of the commercial fishing laws, it is unlawful for a wholesaler, canner or buyer to buy or receive salmon taken in the Columbia River gillnet fishery from an individual who does not have the permit required by subsection (1) of this section.

(3) The permit required by subsection (1) of this section is in addition to and not in lieu of the boat license required by ORS 508.260 (Boat license) . [1979 c.679 §2; 1981 c.365 §1]

Source: Section 508.775 — Vessel permit required to engage in fishery; purchase of fish by dealer from individual without permit prohibited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.700 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.700
508.700 Permits for salmon hatcheries
Status: in_force

(1) The State Fish and Wildlife Commission may issue a permit, subject to such restrictions and regulations as the commission deems desirable, to any person to construct and operate a hatchery for:

(a) Chinook salmon, also known as Oncorhynchus tshawytscha; or

(b) Chum salmon, also known as Oncorhynchus keta or dog salmon; or

(c) Silver salmon, also known as Oncorhynchus kisutch or coho salmon; or

(d) Pink salmon, also known as Oncorhynchus gorbuscha or humpback salmon.

(2) The application for a permit to construct and operate a chum salmon, chinook salmon, silver salmon, or pink salmon hatchery shall include an application fee of $3,000. [1971 c.203 §1; 1973 c.356 §1; 1979 c.556 §1; 2009 c.832 §26]

Source: Section 508.700 — Permits for salmon hatcheries; fees , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.462 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.462
506.462 Review of denial of applications
Status: in_force

(1) A person whose application for a developmental fisheries permit or a restricted permit established under subsection (6) of this section, or for the renewal or transfer of a developmental fisheries permit or restricted permit, is denied may make written request to the Commercial Fishery Permit Board for review of the denial. The review provided in this subsection is in lieu of any review by the State Department of Fish and Wildlife or the State Fish and Wildlife Commission. The request shall be in such form and shall contain such information as the board considers appropriate. The request shall be accompanied by a nonrefundable fee of $125. The fee shall apply toward any applicable permit fees resulting from an order of the board in favor of the requesting applicant.

(2) The board shall review a denial as a contested case under ORS chapter 183. Orders issued by the board are not subject to review by the commission, but may be appealed as provided in ORS 183.482 (Jurisdiction for review of contested cases) .

(3) The board may waive requirements for renewal of a developmental fisheries permit or a restricted permit established under subsection (6) of this section if the board finds that an individual applicant fails to meet the requirements as the result of illness, accident or other circumstances beyond the individual’s control.

(4) The board may delegate to the department the board’s authority to waive requirements for renewal of developmental fisheries permits or restricted permits established under subsection (6) of this section.

(5) The board may adopt such rules as it determines necessary to carry out its duties, functions and powers under this section.

(6) Once the commission determines that a commercial harvest of a developmental fishery can be sustained, it may remove that fishery from the developmental fisheries list, and may, by rule, establish a restricted participation system or a restricted vessel permit system for that fishery. These restricted permit systems may include, but are not limited to, provisions relating to the following matters:

(a) Establishment of criteria for initial entry into the restricted permit system and criteria for annual qualification for continued participation in the system; and

(b) Establishment of terms and conditions for transferring participation rights. [2007 c.95 §2; 2009 c.832 §18]

Source: Section 506.462 — Review of denial of applications; removal of fishery from developmental fisheries list; fees; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 511.606 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 511 / Section 511.606
511.606 Taking food fish for commercial purposes in Nestucca Bay prohibited
Status: in_force

It is unlawful to take any food fish except shellfish for commercial purposes from Nestucca Bay or any of its tributaries. [1965 c.570 §149]

Source: Section 511.606 — Taking food fish for commercial purposes in Nestucca Bay prohibited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors511.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.819 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.819
508.819 Permits transferred to federal government
Status: in_force

The State Department of Fish and Wildlife shall consider a permit transferred to, purchased by or otherwise held by the federal government as a permit renewed under ORS 508.807 (Renewal of permit) . [1979 c.613 §8; 1981 c.365 §2; 1987 c.912 §3; subsection (2) of 1987 Replacement Part enacted as 1983 c.797 §4; 1993 c.555 §1; 1995 c.602 §13; 2001 c.235 §1; 2007 c.461 §1; 2012 c.17 §2]

Source: Section 508.819 — Permits transferred to federal government , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.119 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.119
506.119 General duties and powers of commission
Status: in_force

(1) The State Fish and Wildlife Commission has the authority to formulate and implement the policies and programs of this state for the management of food fish, and may perform all acts necessary to administer and carry out the provisions of the commercial fishing laws.

(2) In accordance with any applicable provision of ORS chapter 183, the commission may promulgate rules to carry out the provisions of the commercial fishing laws. [1975 c.253 §17]

Source: Section 506.119 — General duties and powers of commission; rulemaking authority , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.495 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.495
508.495 Certificate in lieu of lost or destroyed license
Status: in_force

Upon the receipt of a fee of $16.50 and the filing of an affidavit that a license issued under authority of ORS 508.406 (Director or agent to issue and renew licenses) has been lost or destroyed, the State Fish and Wildlife Director or the authorized agent of the director shall issue a certificate that such license has been issued and has been lost or destroyed. Except as provided in ORS 508.260 (Boat license) , the certificate may be used in lieu of the lost or destroyed license. [1957 c.140 §1; 1965 c.570 §76; 1973 c.768 §18; 2009 c.832 §23]

Source: Section 508.495 — Certificate in lieu of lost or destroyed license; fee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.465 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.465
506.465 Developmental Fisheries Board
Status: in_force

(1) The Developmental Fisheries Board is established in the State Department of Fish and Wildlife. The board shall consist of members appointed by the State Fish and Wildlife Commission after consultation with commercial fishing industry representatives to insure representation on the board of a broad range of fishing interests.

(2) The commission shall appoint:

(a) Two members who are commercial fishermen licensed in this state and who are the operators of commercial fishing vessels that are less than 60 feet in length.

(b) Two members who are commercial fishermen licensed in this state and who are the operators of commercial fishing vessels that are 60 feet or more in length.

(c) One member who represents commercial fishing interests in general.

(d) One member who is employed by a fish processor having fewer than 50 employees.

(e) One member who is employed by a fish processor having 50 or more employees.

(f) One member who is an employee of the State Department of Fish and Wildlife.

(g) One member who is an employee of the State Department of Agriculture.

(3) A member of the board shall receive no compensation for services as a member. However, subject to any applicable law regulating travel and other expenses of state officers and employees, a member shall be reimbursed for actual and necessary travel and other expenses incurred in the performance of duties as a board member. The board shall meet at least once each year. [1993 c.765 §117]

Source: Section 506.465 — Developmental Fisheries Board; members; qualifications; expenses , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.816 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.816
508.816 Fee
Status: in_force

(1) The annual fee for the vessel permit required by ORS 508.801 (Vessel permit required to engage in fishery) is:

(a) $60 for resident applicants.

(b) $110 for nonresident applicants.

(2) Applications shall be in such form and contain such information as the State Department of Fish and Wildlife, by rule, may prescribe. [1979 c.613 §7; 1981 c.43 §1; 1987 c.912 §2; 2009 c.832 §33; 2011 c.613 §6; 2015 c.779 §38]

Source: Section 508.816 — Fee; application form; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 509.015 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 509 / Section 509.015
509.015 Forfeiture of boat, vessel or fishing gear unlawfully used
Status: in_force

(1) In addition to the penalty prescribed by ORS 506.991 (Criminal penalties) , upon conviction of a violation of ORS 509.011 (Prohibited activities during closed season) , the court may order the forfeiture of the boat, vessel, vehicle and fishing gear unlawfully used, in the manner provided by ORS 506.695 (Seizure, forfeiture and disposition of fishing gear and vehicles used unlawfully) and 506.700 (Return of seized property) , and the clear proceeds of the property forfeited shall be deposited with the State Treasury in the Common School Fund.

(2) All food fish taken, transported or possessed in violation of ORS 509.011 (Prohibited activities during closed season) are subject to seizure by the State Fish and Wildlife Director, a deputy fish or game warden or a member of the state police, either with or without arrest. Upon such seizure, the fish are subject to forfeiture and disposition pursuant to ORS 506.690 (Seizure, forfeiture and disposition of fish unlawfully taken) . [Amended by 1957 c.133 §1; 1965 c.570 §95; 1977 c.652 §8; 1987 c.858 §9; 1993 c.699 §29]

Source: Section 509.015 — Forfeiture of boat, vessel or fishing gear unlawfully used; seizure and disposition of food fish unlawfully taken , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors509.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.750 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.750
506.750 Policy for ORS 506.755
Status: in_force

The Legislative Assembly finds and declares that:

(1) The preservation of complex interrelationships of marine environment within the continental shelf of the Pacific Ocean off the coast of the State of Oregon is necessary to conserve coastal species of fish and to guarantee the well-being of the economy and welfare of the state and its people.

(2) The uncontrolled use of the marine commercial fisheries to harvest coastal species of fish and other marine fisheries resources by foreign nationals is of public concern and constitutes an immediate threat to the marine environment and its ultimate survival.

(3) The State of Oregon has a special interest in the maintenance of the productivity of the living resources in the area of the high seas adjacent to its territorial sea. [1974 c.3 §1]

Note: 506.750 (Policy for ORS 506.755) and 506.755 (Fisheries Conservation Zone) were enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but were not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 506 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 506.750 — Policy for ORS 506.755 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.501 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.501
506.501 Jurisdiction and authority to enforce commercial fishing laws
Status: in_force

The State Fish and Wildlife Commission has jurisdiction and authority to enforce the commercial fishing laws, except as provided in ORS 506.506 (Intent of ORS 506.511 and 506.516) to 506.516 (Employment of deputy fish wardens by commission) . [1965 c.570 §34]

Source: Section 506.501 — Jurisdiction and authority to enforce commercial fishing laws , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 511.506 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 511 / Section 511.506
511.506 Taking shad for commercial purposes in Coos Bay or in Siuslaw, Umpqua or Smith Rivers restricted
Status: in_force

It is unlawful to take shad for commercial purposes in the following waters of this state:

(1) That portion of Coos Bay and all of Isthmus Inlet, a tributary thereof, southerly of the bridge connecting Coos Bay and Eastside in Coos County; the area designated as Coos Bay Sports Area and consisting of Isthmus Inlet, Catching Inlet and Cold Bank Slough in Coos County; the north fork of Coos River above a line drawn across the north fork at right angles to the thread of the stream at the lower end of the old John Hendrickson ranch and the south fork of Coos River above a line drawn across the south fork at right angles to the thread of the stream at the lower end of the H. H. Roger’s ranch.

(2) The Siuslaw River above a line across the river drawn at right angles to the thread of the stream at the lower end of the mouth or confluence of Morgan Creek with the Siuslaw River; the north fork of the Siuslaw River above the state highway bridge crossing the north fork between Cushman and Florence in Lane County; and Duncan Inlet or South Inlet or tributaries.

(3) The Umpqua River above the confluence of Mill Creek, outlet of Loon Lake with the Umpqua River in Douglas County; and the Smith River above the confluence of the North Fork of the Smith River with the Smith River. [1965 c.570 §145; 1973 c.500 §3; 1989 c.127 §1]

Source: Section 511.506 — Taking shad for commercial purposes in Coos Bay or in Siuslaw, Umpqua or Smith Rivers restricted , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors511.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 507.010 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 507 / Section 507.010
507.010 Oregon-Washington Columbia River fish compact
Status: in_force

Congress, by virtue of the authority vested in it under section 10, Article I, United States Constitution, providing for compacts and agreements between states, having ratified the recommendations of the conference committees of the States of Oregon and Washington, appointed to agree on legislation necessary for the regulation, preservation and protection of fish in the waters of the Columbia River, over which said states have concurrent jurisdiction, and other waters within either state which would be affected by such concurrent interest, recommendations being as follows: “We further recommend that a resolution be passed by the legislatures of Washington and Oregon, whereby the ratification by Congress of the laws of the States of Oregon and Washington shall act as a treaty between said states, subject to modification only by joint agreement by said states;” and the recommendation having been approved by resolution adopting the report of the conference committee, there exists between the States of Oregon and Washington a definite compact and agreement, the purport of which is substantially as follows: All laws and regulations now existing, or which may be necessary for regulating, protecting or preserving fish in the waters of the Columbia River, over which the States of Oregon and Washington have concurrent jurisdiction, or any other waters within either of said states, which would affect the concurrent jurisdiction, shall be made, changed, altered and amended in whole or in part, only with the mutual consent and approbation of both states.

Source: Section 507.010 — Oregon-Washington Columbia River fish compact , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors507.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 509.120 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 509 / Section 509.120
509.120 Using electricity to disturb food fish
Status: in_force

It is unlawful to use or permit to be used in any of the waters of this state any electrical device, appliance or current which in any manner has a tendency to retard, scare, frighten or obstruct any food fish in their migrations or movements in such waters without first having obtained the consent of and a permit from the State Fish and Wildlife Director. [Amended by 1965 c.570 §106]

Source: Section 509.120 — Using electricity to disturb food fish , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors509.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.907 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.907
508.907 Permit transfer restrictions
Status: in_force

(1) The vessel permit required by ORS 508.880 (Vessel permit required to engage in fishery) is transferable:

(a) To a replacement vessel of the permit holder. A replacement is any vessel that is purchased for any reason to replace a vessel previously owned by and licensed to the permit holder;

(b) To the purchaser of the vessel when the vessel is sold; or

(c) To a replacement vessel owned by an individual other than the permit holder. However, any transfer of a permit away from a vessel without the written consent of each person holding a security interest in such vessel is void.

(2) A permit may be transferred to a vessel of greater length only if that vessel is within 5 feet in overall length of the vessel from which the permit is being transferred. This provision does not apply if the permit is being transferred from one vessel owned by an individual to another vessel not exceeding 80 feet in length that is owned by the same individual.

(3) A permit may not be transferred to another vessel more than once in a 12-month period. However, the Commercial Fishery Permit Board may waive the waiting period if the board finds that strict adherence to the waiting period would create undue hardship for the individual seeking transfer of the permit.

(4) A fee of $100 shall be charged for each transfer of a vessel permit under this section. [1979 c.613 §21; 1981 c.365 §8; 1995 c.602 §26; 1999 c.165 §2; 2009 c.832 §40]

Source: Section 508.907 — Permit transfer restrictions; fee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.980 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.980
508.980 Legislative findings and policy
Status: repealed

(1) The Legislative Assembly finds that it is the policy of the State of Oregon that rules as a whole related to Columbia River fish management and reform that are adopted by the State Fish and Wildlife Commission:

(a) Optimize overall economic benefits to this state;

(b) Enhance the economic viability of Oregon’s recreational and commercial fisheries and the communities that rely on these fisheries;

(c) Contribute to native fish conservation and recovery;

(d) Promote orderly fishery management with the State of Washington; and

(e) Provide consistency with agreements made with Indian tribes pursuant to state or federal court orders.

(2) If economic, including commercial harvest, or conservation objectives related to Columbia River fish management and reform adopted by rule of the commission are not met, then by rule the commission must provide for adaptive management actions that are designed to efficiently achieve the respective economic, including commercial harvest, or conservation objectives, including but not limited to:

(a) Modifying or halting the schedule and degree of shifts in harvest and impact allocations specified in rules of the commission as necessary to attain harvest objectives through improved harvest levels in either off-channel or mainstem fisheries, within the context of naturally varying run sizes;

(b) Advancing additional fishery opportunities, seasons or selective fishing gear; or

(c) Improving hatchery fish production or the timing, size or location of hatchery fish releases.

(3) As part of the rules related to Columbia River fish management and reform, the commission shall establish a zone at the mouth of Youngs Bay in which recreational fishing, including recreational fishing taking place with guide boats, is prohibited in order to reduce the interception of hatchery fish returning to the off-channel commercial fishery in Youngs Bay. At least once every three years, the commission shall evaluate the impacts and effectiveness of this zone and make adjustments, including the removal of the prohibition described in this subsection, as necessary to meet the objectives described in subsection (1) of this section. [2013 c.672 §3a]

Note: 508.980 (Legislative findings and policy) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 508 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Note: Sections 7 and 8, chapter 672, Oregon Laws 2013, provide:

Sec. 7. Fishery enhancement on Columbia River. (1) The Columbia River Fisheries Enhancement Fund is established in the State Treasury, separate and distinct from the General Fund. Interest earned by the Columbia River Fisheries Enhancement Fund shall be credited to the fund.

(2) Moneys in the fund are continuously appropriated to the State Fish and Wildlife Commission to implement measures that enhance fisheries, advance selective harvest practices, optimize the economic benefits of fisheries, improve monitoring and data regarding fishery-related mortality and advance native fish conservation directly related to Columbia River fish management and reform adopted by rule of the commission.

(3) The commission shall annually make available on a website of the commission or State Department of Fish and Wildlife a summary of the uses of the moneys in the fund.

(4) The commission may accept grants, donations, contributions or gifts from any source for deposit in the Columbia River Fisheries Enhancement Fund.

(5) The Columbia River Fisheries Enhancement Fund shall consist of:

(a) Moneys accepted by the commission pursuant to subsection (2) of this section.

(b) Fees collected by the commission under ORS 496.146 (Additional powers of commission) (23). [2013 c.672 §7; 2021 c.169 §1]

Sec. 8. (1) Section 7, chapter 672, Oregon Laws 2013, is repealed on January 2, 2026.

(2) The Columbia River Fisheries Enhancement Fund established under section 7, chapter 672, Oregon Laws 2013, is abolished January 2, 2026.

(3) Any unexpended moneys remaining in the Columbia River Fisheries Enhancement Fund on January 2, 2026, shall be transferred to the State Wildlife Fund. [2013 c.672 §8; 2021 c.169 §2]

Source: Section 508.980 — Legislative findings and policy; Columbia River fish management and reform; adaptive management actions; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.265 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.265
508.265 Boat licensing constitutes registration for purposes of federal laws
Status: in_force

The licensing of any boat pursuant to this chapter to take food fish for commercial purposes from the waters of this state or land food fish from the waters of the Pacific Ocean at any point in this state shall constitute registration of such vessel under the laws of this state for the purposes of section 306(a) of the Fishery Conservation and Management Act of 1976 (Act of April 13, 1976, 90 Stat. 331). [1977 c.202 §2]

Source: Section 508.265 — Boat licensing constitutes registration for purposes of federal laws , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.502 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.502
508.502 Seller operation of vessel pending proceeding against buyer
Status: in_force

(1) In a circuit court proceeding concerning a claim by a seller of a vessel permit transferable under ORS 508.760 (Sea urchin limited participation) , 508.793 (Permit transfer restrictions) , 508.864 (Permit transfer restrictions) , 508.907 (Permit transfer restrictions) , 508.936 (Permit transfer restrictions) or 508.957 (Permit transfer restrictions) that the buyer of the vessel permit has failed to fulfill one or more terms of the sale, the seller may petition the circuit court for a preliminary injunction requiring the State Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Commercial Fishery Permit Board to take such actions as are necessary to allow the seller to continue to operate a vessel in the appropriate fishery during the pendency of the proceeding. An order granting a preliminary injunction under this section must include a finding that allowing the seller to continue to operate a vessel in the appropriate fishery during the pendency of the proceeding will not cause excessive harvest pressure on the fishery resource.

(2) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the State Fish and Wildlife Commission may adopt rules necessary to allow for the issuance of temporary vessel permits or other relief necessary to comply with a preliminary injunction issued pursuant to a petition filed under subsection (1) of this section. [2017 c.158 §2]

Note: 508.502 (Seller operation of vessel pending proceeding against buyer) was added to and made a part of the commercial fishing laws by legislative action but was not added to ORS chapter 508 or any series therein. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 508.502 — Seller operation of vessel pending proceeding against buyer; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.953 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.953
508.953 Log book required
Status: in_force

(1) An owner of a vessel that has a black rockfish and blue rockfish vessel permit or a black rockfish and blue rockfish vessel permit with a nearshore fish endorsement shall keep a log book that includes:

(a) The amount of food fish that are caught;

(b) The date on which the food fish are caught;

(c) The species of food fish that are caught by the vessel; and

(d) Any other information that the State Department of Fish and Wildlife may prescribe.

(2) The State Department of Fish and Wildlife shall:

(a) Annually collect and summarize the information required by subsection (1) of this section; and

(b) Present a report on the black rockfish and blue rockfish fishery and the nearshore species fishery, including the summary prepared in paragraph (a) of this subsection, to the State Fish and Wildlife Commission during a public meeting held by July 1. [2003 c.809 §6]

Source: Section 508.953 — Log book required; collection and report of data , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.106 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.106
508.106 Permit to take carp or other nongame fish
Status: in_force

(1) Upon receiving a written application therefor, accompanied by a fee of $30, the State Fish and Wildlife Commission may issue to any person a permit to take carp or other nongame fish.

(2) The kind or kinds of fish, the method to be used and the name and location of the body of water from which the fish are to be taken, shall be specified in the permit.

(3) After having obtained a permit as provided for in subsection (1) of this section, and subject to any rules of the commission, any person may take carp or nongame fish from any of the waters of this state described in the permit.

(4) It is unlawful to:

(a) Retain any fish other than described in the permit in connection with the use of any permit issued under subsection (1) of this section, and any other fish taken shall at once be set free; or

(b) Take any fish for commercial purposes by a permit issued under subsection (1) of this section without first having obtained a license under ORS 508.035 (Separate licenses required for certain fishing gear and activities) . [1965 c.570 §64; 1973 c.768 §12; 1975 c.253 §30; 2009 c.832 §19]

Source: Section 508.106 — Permit to take carp or other nongame fish; fee , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.720 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.720
506.720 Suit for damages
Status: in_force

(1) The State Fish and Wildlife Commission may institute suit for the recovery of damages for the unlawful taking, possession or killing of food fish that are the property of the state.

(2) The damages shall be twice the fair market value of the food fish.

(3) The commission shall establish by rule the fair market value of food fish.

(4) No person shall apply for or obtain any license, tag or permit issued by the commission when civil damages due pursuant to this section, or when moneys due the State Department of Fish and Wildlife from court-ordered restitution for a violation of the commercial fishing laws, have not been paid. [1987 c.213 §2; 2023 c.166 §2]

Source: Section 506.720 — Suit for damages; amount; rules; application for or obtaining license when money due prohibited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 509.592 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 509 / Section 509.592
509.592 Task force advice to department regarding project funding
Status: in_force

(1) The Fish Passage Task Force established pursuant to ORS 509.590 (Fish Passage Task Force) shall provide advice to the State Department of Fish and Wildlife regarding the projects to be funded and the expenditures to be made from the Fish Passage Restoration Subaccount created under ORS 497.141 (Fish Passage Restoration Subaccount) .

(2) The department shall maintain a record of all moneys deposited to or expended from the subaccount. The department shall make an annual report of the deposits and expenditures available to the public on the department’s website. [2013 c.674 §2]

Note: 509.592 (Task force advice to department regarding project funding) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 509 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 509.592 — Task force advice to department regarding project funding; department report on deposits and expenditures , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors509.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.028 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.028
506.028 “Conservation” defined
Status: in_force

As used in the commercial fishing laws, unless the context requires otherwise, “conservation” means providing for the utilization and management of the food fish of Oregon to protect the ultimate supply for present and future generations, preventing waste and implementing a sound management program for sustained economic, recreational and aesthetic benefits. [1971 c.187 §5; 1973 c.271 §1]

Source: Section 506.028 — “Conservation” defined , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.915 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.915
508.915 Negotiations to establish reciprocal agreements pertaining to pink shrimp
Status: in_force

The State Fish and Wildlife Director shall work with the appropriate authorities in the states of California and Washington to negotiate reciprocal agreements that would allow vessels registered under the laws of those states to land pink shrimp in Oregon to the same extent that vessels registered in Oregon may land pink shrimp in California or Washington. [1999 c.164 §6]

Note: 508.915 (Negotiations to establish reciprocal agreements pertaining to pink shrimp) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 508 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 508.915 — Negotiations to establish reciprocal agreements pertaining to pink shrimp , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.215 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.215
506.215 Maintaining hatcheries in adjoining states
Status: in_force

The State Fish and Wildlife Commission may construct, maintain or operate hatcheries in an adjoining state, but no hatchery shall be constructed or operated on any stream in an adjoining state that is not a tributary of the Columbia River, or whose waters do not flow into the Columbia River.

Source: Section 506.215 — Maintaining hatcheries in adjoining states , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 511.511 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 511 / Section 511.511
511.511 Taking sturgeon for commercial purposes in Umpqua River prohibited
Status: in_force

It is unlawful to take sturgeon for commercial purposes from the waters of the Umpqua River or any of its bays or tributaries. [1965 c.570 §147]

Source: Section 511.511 — Taking sturgeon for commercial purposes in Umpqua River prohibited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors511.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 509.595 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 509 / Section 509.595
509.595 Director to report on fish passage rules, adequacy and implementation
Status: in_force

The State Fish and Wildlife Director shall report to the Governor, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the President of the Senate and the appropriate legislative committee with responsibility for salmon restoration or species recovery:

(1) Prior to the adoption of rules relating to fish passage;

(2) Prior to the establishment of the general criteria for determining the adequacy of fish passage and of alternatives to fish passage required to be established under ORS 509.585 (Fish passage required for artificial obstructions) (7)(c); and

(3) Semiannually on the progress that the director has made in implementing ORS 509.580 (Definitions for ORS 509.580 to 509.590, 509.600 to 509.645 and 509.910) to 509.590 (Fish Passage Task Force) . [2001 c.923 §20; 2007 c.354 §18]

Note: See note under 509.580 (Definitions for ORS 509.580 to 509.590, 509.600 to 509.645 and 509.910) .

Source: Section 509.595 — Director to report on fish passage rules, adequacy and implementation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors509.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 507.050 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 507 / Section 507.050
507.050 Representation on Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission
Status: in_force

(1) The State Fish and Wildlife Director, one legislator appointed as provided in this section and one public member appointed by the Governor shall act as representatives of the State of Oregon on the Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission in accordance with the provisions of and with the powers and duties in the compact set forth in ORS 507.040 (Pacific Marine Fisheries Compact) .

(2) The legislative member shall be appointed by the President of the Senate or the Speaker of the House of Representatives.

(3) The legislative member shall serve for a term of four years. The Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President of the Senate shall alternate in making the appointment of the legislative member.

(4) Notwithstanding ORS 171.072 (Salary of members and presiding officers) , the legislative member is not entitled to mileage expenses or a per diem and serves as a volunteer on the commission.

(5) Members of the commission who are not members of the Legislative Assembly are not entitled to compensation or reimbursement of expenses and serve as volunteers on the commission. [Amended by 1961 c.192 §1; 1975 c.253 §29; 1987 c.436 §1; 2007 c.71 §170; 2009 c.11 §72; 2011 c.272 §16; 2015 c.27 §53]

Source: Section 507.050 — Representation on Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors507.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.011 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.011
508.011 Activities relating to oysters exempted
Status: in_force

This chapter does not apply to oysters or to any activity of any person relating to oysters. [1965 c.570 §59b]

Source: Section 508.011 — Activities relating to oysters exempted , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 509.635 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 509 / Section 509.635
509.635 Oregon City fishway under control of commission
Status: in_force

(1) The fishways over the falls in the Willamette River, near Oregon City, are under the care and control of the State Fish and Wildlife Commission, which may make any extensions, additions, alterations or repairs to the same that become necessary.

(2) The commission, or its duly authorized representatives, may remove any artificial obstructions placed in the Willamette River above the falls which would prevent the free passage of fish up the river. [Amended by 1965 c.570 §136]

Source: Section 509.635 — Oregon City fishway under control of commission; removal of obstructions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors509.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.410 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.410
508.410 Contents of license applications
Status: in_force

All applications for licenses under ORS 508.406 (Director or agent to issue and renew licenses) shall be made on blanks furnished by the State Fish and Wildlife Director and shall contain such information as the State Fish and Wildlife Commission determines to be necessary for proper administration and enforcement of the commercial fishing laws. [Amended by 1957 c.208 §1; 1963 c.196 §2; 1965 c.570 §67]

Source: Section 508.410 — Contents of license applications , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 509.910 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 509 / Section 509.910
509.910 Injunction to prevent certain violations
Status: in_force

(1) The State Fish and Wildlife Commission may maintain an action for an injunction to enjoin and restrain any person, municipal corporation, political subdivision or governmental agency of this state from violating any of the provisions of ORS 509.130 (Placing substances in water or using explosives to take or destroy food fish) , 509.140 (Placing explosives or harmful substances in waters in course of lawful work) , 509.505 (Placing in water matter injurious to shellfish) , 509.585 (Fish passage required for artificial obstructions) , 509.610 (Maintenance of fish passage required) and 509.625 (Power of department to inspect artificial obstructions and have fish passage constructed or remove obstruction) .

(2) Any action authorized by this section shall be tried in the circuit court of the county in which the violation occurs or in Marion or Multnomah County.

(3) If the defendant is a corporation with its principal office and place of business in a county other than in which the waters flow or are situated, such action shall be deemed an action of local nature and service of summons made on a corporation in any county where the corporation has its principal office and place of business. If it is a foreign corporation, service may be made on the statutory agent but if there is no such statutory agent then upon the Secretary of State as in other cases provided by law. [1963 c.303 §1; 1977 c.242 §8; 1979 c.284 §16; 2001 c.923 §14; 2007 c.625 §10]

Source: Section 509.910 — Injunction to prevent certain violations; jurisdiction; service on corporation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors509.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.784 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.784
508.784 Considerations in determining eligibility for permit
Status: in_force

In making determinations regarding renewal of the permits required by ORS 508.775 (Vessel permit required to engage in fishery) , the State Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Commercial Fishery Permit Board may consider as evidence of permit qualifications or requirements department records and such receipts, accounts, contracts and other business records of private parties as the department or the board consider reliable evidence of the qualifications or requirements in question. [1979 c.679 §5; 1989 c.940 §4]

Source: Section 508.784 — Considerations in determining eligibility for permit , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.695 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.695
506.695 Seizure, forfeiture and disposition of fishing gear and vehicles used unlawfully
Status: in_force

(1) All boats, fishing gear and vehicles used in violation of the commercial fishing laws or the rules of the State Fish and Wildlife Commission may be seized, and piling driven for the sole or primary purposes of violation of such laws may be removed, by any member of the commission or any officer described in ORS 506.521 (Enforcement of commercial fishing laws) . The agency that seizes property under this subsection shall retain custody of the seized property until it is ordered returned to the owner or confiscation is adjudged pursuant to this section.

(2) Upon the order of the court at the time of passing sentence for a crime, the property seized under subsection (1) of this section may be forfeited. If forfeited, such property shall be turned over to the commission.

(3) The commission may dispose of such forfeited property in any manner it deems proper, but the clear proceeds derived from the sale of any forfeited property shall be deposited with the State Treasury to be placed in the Common School Fund. [Formerly 506.603; 1977 c.652 §5; 1987 c.858 §7; 1993 c.699 §26; 2009 c.835 §10]

Source: Section 506.695 — Seizure, forfeiture and disposition of fishing gear and vehicles used unlawfully; removal of unlawful piling , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.505 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.505
508.505 Additional fees based on value of fish at time of landing
Status: in_force

(1) Additional fees shall be collected by the State Fish and Wildlife Director in the amount prescribed by this section, except as provided in ORS 508.510 (Place where fish caught is immaterial) . Every person operating within the state as a canner, buyer, bait dealer or wholesaler of any food fish or shellfish shall pay, in addition to all other licenses or fees provided by law, a fee equal to the value of the food fish at the point of landing multiplied by the following rates:

(a) All salmon and steelhead, 3.15 percent.

(b) All black rockfish, blue rockfish and nearshore fish, 5.00 percent.

(c) All tuna, 1.09 percent.

(d) All crab, 2.35 percent.

(e) All shrimp, 2.40 percent.

(f) All sardines, 2.25 percent.

(g) All sablefish, 2.40 percent.

(h) All whiting, 2.30 percent.

(i) All other groundfish, 2.25 percent.

(j) All other food fish and shellfish, 2.30 percent.

(2) Only live, fresh or frozen in the round or dressed food fish or shellfish are subject to the fees provided in this section. “Dressed” includes but is not limited to beheaded, gutted, filleted, loined or shucked. However, frozen food fish or frozen shellfish received in a wrapped package to which a legible label is stamped or printed showing the name, address, brand or trade name of the original processor or wholesale distributor under which the package is marketed and the kind of frozen food fish or frozen shellfish contained therein, for distribution and ultimate sale in the original package are not subject to the fees provided in this section. [Formerly 508.305; 1969 c.172 §4; 1971 c.243 §1; 1973 c.768 §15; 1979 c.378 §1; 1989 c.166 §1; 1991 c.701 §2; 2003 c.809 §12; 2009 c.832 §24; 2015 c.779 §34]

Source: Section 508.505 — Additional fees based on value of fish at time of landing; exceptions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 509.590 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 509 / Section 509.590
509.590 Fish Passage Task Force
Status: in_force

(1) The State Fish and Wildlife Director shall establish a Fish Passage Task Force to advise the director and the State Department of Fish and Wildlife on matters related to fish passage in Oregon, including but not limited to funding, cost sharing and prioritization of efforts. The director shall determine the members and the specific duties of the task force by rule.

(2) The department shall provide staff necessary for the performance of the functions of the task force.

(3) A member of the task force may not receive compensation for services as a member of the task force. In accordance with ORS 292.495 (Compensation and expenses of members of state boards and commissions) , a member of the task force may receive reimbursement for actual and necessary travel or other expenses incurred in the performance of official duties.

(4) The task force shall report semiannually to the appropriate legislative committee with responsibility for salmon restoration or species recovery, to advise the committee on matters related to fish passage. [2001 c.923 §3; 2007 c.354 §17]

Note: See note under 509.580 (Definitions for ORS 509.580 to 509.590, 509.600 to 509.645 and 509.910) .

Source: Section 509.590 — Fish Passage Task Force; reports to legislature , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors509.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 509.112 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 509 / Section 509.112
509.112 Wasting food fish
Status: in_force

It is unlawful for any person wantonly to waste or destroy any food fish. [Formerly 509.065]

Source: Section 509.112 — Wasting food fish , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors509.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.949 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.949
508.949 Fees
Status: in_force

(1) The annual fee for a black rockfish and blue rockfish vessel permit or a black rockfish and blue rockfish vessel permit with a nearshore fish endorsement issued under ORS 508.947 (Eligibility for permit) is:

(a) $125 for resident applicants.

(b) $175 for nonresident applicants.

(2) Applications for a permit shall be in such form and contain such information as the State Department of Fish and Wildlife, by rule, may prescribe.

(3) All fees collected under this section and ORS 508.505 (Additional fees based on value of fish at time of landing) (1)(b) and 508.947 (Eligibility for permit) shall be placed into the Black Rockfish, Blue Rockfish and Nearshore Species Research Account established in ORS 508.951 (Black Rockfish, Blue Rockfish and Nearshore Species Research Account) . [2003 c.809 §4; 2009 c.832 §44; 2015 c.779 §41]

Source: Section 508.949 — Fees; application form; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.121 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.121
508.121 Juvenile jig line license
Status: in_force

(1) Any juvenile may secure from the State Fish and Wildlife Commission free of charge a juvenile jig line license to take herring, pilchard, perch, anchovies and candlefish by a hand or jig line and to sell such fish so taken by the juvenile to a wholesale fish dealer or a fish bait dealer.

(2) As used in this section, “juvenile” means any individual 17 years of age or younger as of January 1 of the year for which the license is issued.

(3) The license, for the purposes authorized in this section, is in lieu of the commercial fisherman and boat licenses required under ORS 508.235 (Commercial fishing license) and 508.260 (Boat license) . [1965 c.103 §2; 1971 c.540 §8]

Source: Section 508.121 — Juvenile jig line license , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.849 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.849
508.849 Renewal of permit
Status: in_force

An individual who obtained the permit required by ORS 508.840 (Vessel permit required to engage in fishery) for calendar year 1981 is eligible to obtain renewal of the permit in a subsequent calendar year, upon application by December 31 of the permit year and payment of the fees therefor, if during the preceding calendar year the vessel for which permit renewal application is made was used in the ocean fishery to take at least 5,000 pounds of food fish which were lawfully landed in this state. [1981 c.365 §28; 1995 c.602 §18]

Source: Section 508.849 — Renewal of permit , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.778 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.778
508.778 Limitation on issuance of permits
Status: in_force

Except as provided in ORS 508.792 (Lottery system for permit issuance) , no new vessel permits shall be issued. [1979 c.679 §3; 1981 c.365 §40; 1989 c.940 §3; 1995 c.602 §5]

Source: Section 508.778 — Limitation on issuance of permits , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.030 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.030
508.030 License required for fishing gear
Status: in_force

It is unlawful for any individual to operate, or leave in a condition to take food fish in any of the waters of this state, any fishing gear used in taking food fish, without first obtaining from the State Fish and Wildlife Director or the authorized agent of the director such license as may be prescribed by this chapter. The license must be in the possession of such individual at the time the fishing gear is being used. [1965 c.570 §61]

Source: Section 508.030 — License required for fishing gear , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.006 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.006
506.006 General definitions
Status: in_force

As used in the commercial fishing laws, unless the context requires otherwise:

(1) “Angling” means fishing for personal use with one line attached to a pole held in hand while landing the fish, or with a hand-operated line without rod or reel, to which may be attached not to exceed three hooks, except on floating bass plugs.

(2) “Boat” means any vessel, any floating craft, powered, towed, rowed or otherwise propelled which is used for landing or taking food fish.

(3) “Buy” includes offer to buy, barter, exchange or trade.

(4) “Commercial purposes” means taking food fish with any gear unlawful for angling, or taking or possessing food fish in excess of the limits permitted for personal use, or taking, fishing for, handling, processing, or otherwise disposing of or dealing in food fish with the intent of disposing of such food fish or parts thereof for profit, or by sale, barter or trade, in commercial channels.

(5) “Commission” means the State Fish and Wildlife Commission created by ORS 496.090 (State Fish and Wildlife Commission) .

(6) “Department” means the State Department of Fish and Wildlife.

(7) “Director” means the State Fish and Wildlife Director appointed pursuant to ORS 496.112 (State Fish and Wildlife Director) .

(8) “Fishing gear” means any appliance or device intended for or capable of being used to take food fish except by angling.

(9) “Fixed fishing gear” includes but is not limited to stationary gear operated at a fixed location.

(10) “Personal use” means taking or fishing for food fish by angling or by such other means and with such gear as the commission may authorize for fishing for personal use, or possessing the same for the use of the person fishing for, taking or possessing the same and not for sale or barter.

(11) “Sell” includes offer or possess for sale, barter, exchange or trade.

(12) “Take” means fish for, hunt, pursue, catch, capture or kill or attempt to fish for, hunt, pursue, catch, capture or kill.

(13) “Transport” means transport by any means, and includes offer or receive for transportation.

(14) “Waters of this state” means all waters over which the State of Oregon has jurisdiction, or joint or other jurisdiction with any other state or government, including waters of the Pacific Ocean and all bays, inlets, lakes, rivers and streams within or forming the boundaries of this state. [1965 c.570 §3; 1975 c.253 §13; 1995 c.602 §1; 2003 c.14 §337]

Source: Section 506.006 — General definitions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.035 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.035
508.035 Separate licenses required for certain fishing gear and activities
Status: in_force

(1) Separate licenses are required for each:

(a) Person other than an employee operating as a canner of food fish.

(b) Person other than an employee operating as a wholesale fish dealer, for each separate place of business.

(c) Individual acting or engaged as a fish buyer by a person licensed under paragraph (a) or (b) of this subsection.

(d) Person licensed under paragraph (a) or (b) of this subsection, for each permanent site or location operated by such person as a fish-buying station.

(e) Individual taking or assisting in the taking of food fish for commercial purposes as described in ORS 508.235 (Commercial fishing license) .

(f) Boat, used in taking food fish for commercial purposes, as described in ORS 508.260 (Boat license) .

(g) Single delivery of food fish from the Pacific Ocean for commercial purposes in the absence of licenses under paragraphs (e) and (f) of this subsection.

(h) Person other than an employee operating as a fish bait dealer, for each separate place of business.

(i) Individual taking or assisting in the taking of food fish for sale to a fish bait dealer.

(2) The State Fish and Wildlife Commission shall classify and define the various licenses provided for in this section and shall direct the State Fish and Wildlife Director to issue licenses accordingly and the classification shall be final. [1965 c.570 §62; 1969 c.172 §1; 1971 c.540 §4; 1973 c.768 §19]

Source: Section 508.035 — Separate licenses required for certain fishing gear and activities , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.405 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.405
506.405 Powers of commission regarding federal aid for fish and fisheries
Status: in_force

The State Fish and Wildlife Commission may:

(1) Enter into such contracts, appoint such officers and do any other act or thing necessary fully to meet the requirements of the United States and the officers acting under federal statute in aid of the conservation and preservation of fish and fisheries in this state or concerning any federal project wherein the conservation and preservation of such fish and fisheries are involved.

(2) Accept contributions of funds from the federal government for such purposes.

Source: Section 506.405 — Powers of commission regarding federal aid for fish and fisheries , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.006 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.006
508.006 Definitions
Status: in_force

The definitions prescribed by ORS 506.001 (Contents of commercial fishing laws) to 506.025 (“Unlawful to buy” defined) apply to this chapter. [1965 c.570 §58]

Source: Section 508.006 — Definitions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.807 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.807
508.807 Renewal of permit
Status: in_force

(1) An individual who obtained the permit required by ORS 508.801 (Vessel permit required to engage in fishery) for a particular calendar year is eligible to obtain renewal of the permit in a subsequent calendar year upon obtaining the annual boat license referred to in ORS 508.285 (License fees) . The permit must be renewed, and the boat license obtained, not later than December 31 of each year or such date as may be established by rule of the State Department of Fish and Wildlife.

(2) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, an individual who permanently loses the services of a vessel through capsizing, sinking, fire, collision or other catastrophic accident has a period of two years from the date of loss to replace the vessel without losing eligibility to renew the vessel permit. [1979 c.613 §4; 1981 c.43 §5; 1987 c.912 §1; 1995 c.602 §10; 2007 c.768 §8]

Source: Section 508.807 — Renewal of permit; replacement vessel; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.796 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.796
508.796 Review of permit denial
Status: in_force

(1) An individual whose application for renewal of the permit required by ORS 508.775 (Vessel permit required to engage in fishery) is denied by the State Department of Fish and Wildlife may make written request to the Commercial Fishery Permit Board for review of the denial. The review provided in this subsection is in lieu of any such review by the department or the State Fish and Wildlife Commission. The request shall be in such form and shall contain such information as the board considers appropriate. The request shall be accompanied by a nonrefundable fee of $125. Such fees shall apply toward the permit fee of successful applicants.

(2) In accordance with any applicable provision of ORS chapter 183, the board shall review denials of applications for renewal of permits. Orders issued by the board are not subject to review by the commission, but may be appealed as provided in ORS 183.480 (Judicial review of agency orders) to 183.500 (Appeals) . The board may waive requirements for renewal of permits if the board finds:

(a) That the individual for personal or economic reasons chose to actively commercially fish in some other fishery during the Columbia River gillnet salmon seasons; or

(b) That the individual failed to meet the requirements as the result of illness, accident or other circumstances beyond the individual’s control.

(3) In accordance with any applicable provision of ORS chapter 183, the board may promulgate such rules as it considers necessary to carry out its duties, functions and powers.

(4) The board may delegate to the department its authority to waive requirements for renewal of permits.

(5) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, without the prior approval of the Commercial Fishery Permit Board, a Columbia River gillnet salmon vessel permit acquired as a result of a waiver pursuant to subsection (2) of this section may not be transferred to another vessel until the vessel for which the permit was issued has been used in the Columbia River gillnet salmon fishery for two or more calendar years. [1979 c.679 §10; 1981 c.365 §15; 1989 c.940 §5; 1995 c.602 §8; 2009 c.832 §32]

Source: Section 508.796 — Review of permit denial; fee; rules; limitation on transfer of certain permits , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 509.040 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 509 / Section 509.040
509.040 Small or immature salmon protected
Status: in_force

(1) Any person who takes any immature salmon of any variety less than 20 inches in length, or any mature salmon of any variety less than 15 inches in length, by any means other than angling, shall immediately return such salmon alive to the water.

(2) It is unlawful to:

(a) Take, buy, sell or possess immature salmon less than 20 inches or mature salmon less than 15 inches in length, taken in any waters of this state, at any time or in any manner except by angling.

(b) Take, molest, kill or injure, in any manner at any time, or expose for sale or have in possession, except for the purpose of propagation when authorized by law, any spawning salmon.

(3) Notwithstanding subsections (1) and (2) of this section it is lawful to take precocious salmon commonly called jack salmon less than 15 inches in length from the waters of this state, except the Pacific Ocean and to buy, sell or possess such salmon.

(4) To further protect immature salmon the State Fish and Wildlife Commission may establish by rule a minimum size for any species of salmon which is greater than 20 inches. [Amended by 1965 c.570 §97]

Source: Section 509.040 — Small or immature salmon protected; exceptions; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors509.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.735 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.735
508.735 Application of chapter to taking and sale of salmon
Status: in_force

The provisions of this chapter shall apply to the taking and sale of chum salmon, chinook salmon, silver salmon or pink salmon artificially reared under any permit granted by the State Fish and Wildlife Commission pursuant to ORS 508.700 (Permits for salmon hatcheries) to 508.745 (Disposition of moneys received under ORS 508.700 to 508.745) . [1971 c.203 §8; 1973 c.356 §4; 1979 c.556 §4]

Source: Section 508.735 — Application of chapter to taking and sale of salmon , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.515 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.515
508.515 Time of paying fees
Status: in_force

(1) The fee required by ORS 508.505 (Additional fees based on value of fish at time of landing) shall be paid to the State Fish and Wildlife Director on or before the 20th day of each calendar month for the preceding calendar month.

(2) The fee shall be accompanied by a report showing the total number of pounds of all varieties of food fish, stated separately upon blanks furnished by the director, and the value at the point of landing.

(3) In the event that such fee is not paid within the time for payment provided in subsection (1) of this section, there shall be added as a late payment charge a sum equal to five percent of the unpaid fees or $5, whichever is greater, and there shall be charged an interest rate of one percent per month until the principal and interest is paid.

(4) Notwithstanding subsection (1), (2) or (3) of this section, the State Fish and Wildlife Commission may waive or extend payment of any fees required by ORS 508.505 (Additional fees based on value of fish at time of landing) amounting to less than $10 during any calendar year. [Formerly 508.310; 1971 c.243 §2; 1981 c.646 §5; 1991 c.701 §5]

Source: Section 508.515 — Time of paying fees; report; interest on overdue fees; waiver or extension of payment , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.226 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.226
506.226 Use of electric shock to take adult salmonids for private hatchery permittees prohibited
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other provision of law the State Department of Fish and Wildlife shall not use in any body of water any electric current or electric shock device for the purpose of capturing any adult salmonids for a person granted a permit pursuant to ORS 508.700 (Permits for salmon hatcheries) to 508.745 (Disposition of moneys received under ORS 508.700 to 508.745) . [1981 c.646 §2]

Source: Section 506.226 — Use of electric shock to take adult salmonids for private hatchery permittees prohibited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.960 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.960
508.960 Review of permit denial
Status: in_force

(1) A person whose application for issuance, renewal or transfer of a permit under ORS 508.947 (Eligibility for permit) is denied by the State Department of Fish and Wildlife may make written request to the Commercial Fishery Permit Board for review of the denial. The review provided in this subsection is in lieu of any such review by the department or the State Fish and Wildlife Commission. The request shall be in such form and shall contain such information as the board considers appropriate. The request shall be accompanied by a nonrefundable fee of $125, which shall apply toward the permit fee if the application is approved.

(2) In accordance with the applicable provisions of ORS chapter 183, the board shall review denials of applications for issuance, transfer or renewal of permits. Orders issued by the board are not subject to review by the commission, but may be appealed as provided in ORS 183.480 (Judicial review of agency orders) to 183.540 (Reduction of economic impact on small business) . The board may waive requirements for renewal or transfer of permits if the board finds that the person fails to meet the requirements as the result of illness, accident or other circumstances beyond the person’s control.

(3) In accordance with the applicable provisions of ORS chapter 183, the board may promulgate such rules as it considers necessary to carry out its duties, functions and powers under this section. [2003 c.809 §9; 2009 c.832 §46]

Source: Section 508.960 — Review of permit denial; fee; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.755 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.755
506.755 Fisheries Conservation Zone
Status: in_force

(1) The State of Oregon adopts a Fisheries Conservation Zone for the maintenance, preservation and protection of all coastal species of fish and other marine fisheries resources between the mean high water mark of the state and a straight line extension of the lateral boundaries of the state drawn seaward to a distance of 50 statute miles.

(2) Activities of marine commercial fishing within the limits and boundaries of the Fisheries Conservation Zone shall be under the jurisdiction and regulation of the commission.

(3) The commission shall study the fishery within the zone and when appropriate adopt, amend or repeal all rules, according to the provisions of ORS 506.119 (General duties and powers of commission) and 506.129 (Establishing seasons, amounts and manner of taking food fish) necessary for the maintenance, preservation and protection of all coastal species of fish and other marine fisheries resources.

(4) The jurisdiction within the Fisheries Conservation Zone shall include, but not be limited to, provisions for inspection of catch, particularly regarding anadromous fish; rules relating to methods of fishing, size and kind of gear and nets; rules designating seasons, closures and restricted areas.

(5) ORS 506.501 (Jurisdiction and authority to enforce commercial fishing laws) to 506.695 (Seizure, forfeiture and disposition of fishing gear and vehicles used unlawfully) shall provide the authority for enforcing rules adopted by the commission as specified in this section.

(6) Subject to ORS 153.022 (Authority of agency to specify rule violation as particular level of violation) , any person convicted of violating any rule authorized under the provisions of this section shall be punished by a fine not to exceed $10,000.

(7) Nothing contained within this section is intended to abrogate a nation’s right of free passage or navigation of the high seas.

(8) Nothing contained within this section is intended to abrogate international fish compacts, agreements or treaties providing for the management of anadromous or pelagic fish species. [1974 c.3 §2; 1983 c.740 §204; 1999 c.1051 §313]

Note: See note under 506.750 (Policy for ORS 506.755) .

Source: Section 506.755 — Fisheries Conservation Zone; rules; jurisdiction over zone; penalty; construction , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.011 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.011
506.011 Types of marine life defined
Status: in_force

As used in the commercial fishing laws, unless the context requires otherwise:

(1) “Anadromous fish” includes but is not limited to salmon, as defined in ORS 506.016 (“Salmon” defined) ; Roccus saxatilis, commonly known as striped bass; Alosa sapidissima, commonly known as shad; Acipenser medirostris and Acipenser transmontanus, commonly known as sturgeon; and Thaleichthys pacificus, commonly known as smelt.

(2) “Animals living intertidally on the bottom” includes but is not limited to starfish, sea urchins, sea cucumbers, snails, bivalves, worms, coelenterates and shore, hermit and other small crabs not included within subsection (1) or (7) of this section.

(3) “Black rockfish” means Sebastes melanops, commonly known as black rockfish.

(4) “Blue rockfish” means Sebastes mystinus, commonly known as blue rockfish.

(5) “Food fish” means any animal over which the State Fish and Wildlife Commission has jurisdiction pursuant to ORS 506.036 (Jurisdiction of commission) .

(6) “Nearshore fish” means:

(a) Enophrys bison, commonly known as buffalo sculpin;

(b) Hemilepidotus hemilepidotus, commonly known as red Irish lord;

(c) Hemilepidotus spinosus, commonly known as brown Irish lord;

(d) Scorpaenichthys marmoratus, commonly known as cabezon;

(e) Hexagrammos decagrammus, commonly known as kelp greenling;

(f) Hexagrammos lagocephalus, commonly known as rock greenling;

(g) Hexagrammos stelleri, commonly known as whitespotted greenling;

(h) Oxylebius pictus, commonly known as painted greenling;

(i) Sebastes atrovirens, commonly known as kelp rockfish;

(j) Sebastes auriculatus, commonly known as brown rockfish;

(k) Sebastes carnatus, commonly known as gopher rockfish;

(L) Sebastes caurinus, commonly known as copper rockfish;

(m) Sebastes chrysomelas, commonly known as black and yellow rockfish;

(n) Sebastes dalli, commonly known as calico rockfish;

(o) Sebastes maliger, commonly known as quillback rockfish;

(p) Sebastes miniatus, commonly known as vermilion rockfish;

(q) Sebastes nebulosus, commonly known as china rockfish;

(r) Sebastes nigrocinctus, commonly known as tiger rockfish;

(s) Sebastes rastrelliger, commonly known as grass rockfish;

(t) Sebastes serranoides, commonly known as olive rockfish; or

(u) Sebastes serriceps, commonly known as treefish.

(7) “Shellfish” includes but is not limited to abalone, clams, crabs, crayfish or crawfish, mussels, oysters, piddocks, scallops and shrimp. [1965 c.570 §4; 2003 c.809 §11]

Source: Section 506.011 — Types of marine life defined , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.790 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.790
508.790 Fee
Status: in_force

(1) The annual fee for the vessel permit required by ORS 508.775 (Vessel permit required to engage in fishery) is:

(a) $51 for resident applicants.

(b) $101 for nonresident applicants.

(2) Applications shall be in such form and contain such information as the State Department of Fish and Wildlife, by rule, may prescribe. [1979 c.679 §7; 1981 c.43 §3; 2009 c.832 §30; 2011 c.613 §5; 2015 c.779 §37]

Source: Section 508.790 — Fee; application form , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.465 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.465
508.465 Licenses nontransferable
Status: in_force

Licenses may not be transferred from one licensee to another.

Source: Section 508.465 — Licenses nontransferable , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.406 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.406
508.406 Director or agent to issue and renew licenses
Status: in_force

The State Fish and Wildlife Director or the authorized agent of the director shall issue or renew any license required by the commercial fishing laws to a qualified person upon proper application and payment of the license fee required by ORS 508.285 (License fees) . [1965 c.570 §66 (enacted in lieu of 508.405)]

Source: Section 508.406 — Director or agent to issue and renew licenses , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 511.106 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 511 / Section 511.106
511.106 Commercial fishing in Columbia River and tributaries restricted
Status: in_force

It is unlawful in the Columbia River and its tributaries to:

(1) Take salmon for commercial purposes east of its confluence with the Deschutes River.

(2) Take food fish for commercial purposes in a closed area at and adjacent to the mouth of the Sandy River, Hood River and Deschutes River. The closed area shall be one-fourth of a mile in width, extending out into the Columbia River at right angles to the thread of the stream, and one mile in length below the upper or right-hand bank or shoreline of such tributary where the tributary intersects the left-hand bank or shoreline of the Columbia River. [1965 c.570 §140; 1969 c.358 §1; 1989 c.126 §1]

Source: Section 511.106 — Commercial fishing in Columbia River and tributaries restricted , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors511.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 509.150 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 509 / Section 509.150
509.150 Use by commission of explosives or substances to destroy predatory fish
Status: in_force

Nothing in ORS 509.125 (Placing substances in water to drive fish from closed areas) to 509.155 (Possession of fish taken by explosives or harmful substance justifies arrest) prevents the State Fish and Wildlife Commission from using any explosives or substances deleterious to fish for the purpose of destroying German carp or any other predatory fish inimical to food fish, or from carrying out any of the commercial fishing laws. [Amended by 1965 c.570 §114]

Source: Section 509.150 — Use by commission of explosives or substances to destroy predatory fish , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors509.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.460 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.460
508.460 Oregon-Washington reciprocity on gillnet licenses
Status: in_force

All gillnet licenses issued by the States of Oregon and Washington are valid as to the waters of the Columbia River in Oregon and Washington, as though issued by the department of fisheries of either state. The department of fisheries of each state or the officials who have charge of issuing licenses shall furnish to each other the names of licensees and the number of the licenses, without cost or expense to either state.

Source: Section 508.460 — Oregon-Washington reciprocity on gillnet licenses , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 508.506 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 508 / Section 508.506
508.506 Additional payments on certain fish species
Status: in_force

In addition to the ad valorem fee prescribed by law, there shall be paid for each fish species referred to in ORS 508.505 (Additional fees based on value of fish at time of landing) (1)(a), an additional fee of four cents per pound. The ad valorem fee referred to in this section is subject to ORS 508.505 (Additional fees based on value of fish at time of landing) to 508.540 (Failure to keep or submit records or to pay fee) . [1989 c.512 §8; 1991 c.184 §3; 1997 c.8 §11; 2003 c.643 §3; 2009 c.765 §4; 2015 c.734 §5; 2019 c.458 §6]

Note: Section 4, chapter 734, Oregon Laws 2015, provides:

Sec. 4. Additional fee through 2026. (1) In addition to the ad valorem fee prescribed by law, during the period beginning January 1, 2016, and ending December 31, 2026, there shall be paid for each fish species referred to in ORS 508.505 (Additional fees based on value of fish at time of landing) (1)(a), an additional fee of four cents per pound. The ad valorem fee referred to in this section is subject to ORS 508.505 (Additional fees based on value of fish at time of landing) to 508.540 (Failure to keep or submit records or to pay fee) .

(2) Notwithstanding ORS 506.306 (Collecting moneys under commercial fishing laws) , all moneys received by the State Fish and Wildlife Commission pursuant to subsection (1) of this section shall be deposited in the Oregon Hatchery Research Center Fund. [2015 c.734 §4]

Source: Section 508.506 — Additional payments on certain fish species , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors508.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 506.700 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 506 / Section 506.700
506.700 Return of seized property
Status: in_force

(1) At any time after the seizure mentioned in ORS 506.695 (Seizure, forfeiture and disposition of fishing gear and vehicles used unlawfully) , but before the entry of judgment pursuant to ORS 506.695 (Seizure, forfeiture and disposition of fishing gear and vehicles used unlawfully) , the owner of the seized property may require the return thereof upon giving to the agency that seized the property a written undertaking, executed by sufficient surety, to be approved by the court described in ORS 506.695 (Seizure, forfeiture and disposition of fishing gear and vehicles used unlawfully) , to the effect that such surety is bound in double the value of the property as determined by the court, for the delivery thereof to the plaintiff, if such delivery be adjudged, and for the payment to the plaintiff of such sum as may, for any cause, be recovered against the owner. The owner shall file such written undertaking with the clerk of the court for the county in which the seizure occurred and shall serve a true copy thereof upon the district attorney for the same county.

(2) If confiscation or forfeiture of such property is required by a judgment of the court under ORS 506.695 (Seizure, forfeiture and disposition of fishing gear and vehicles used unlawfully) , the owner shall return the property to the plaintiff. If the owner fails to return the property, any officer described under ORS 506.521 (Enforcement of commercial fishing laws) may maintain an action upon such undertaking, and the clear proceeds shall be deposited with the State Treasury in the Common School Fund. [1977 c.652 §7; 1987 c.858 §8; 1993 c.699 §27; 2009 c.835 §11]

Source: Section 506.700 — Return of seized property; undertaking; effect of judgment ordering forfeiture or confiscation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors506.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 509.370 — OR Code / Title 42 / Chapter 509 / Section 509.370
509.370 Taking of salmon by net in international waters of Pacific Ocean by Oregon citizen prohibited
Status: in_force

No citizen of this state shall fish for or take, by the use of any type of net, any salmon within the international waters of the Pacific Ocean. [1957 c.152 §3]

Source: Section 509.370 — Taking of salmon by net in international waters of Pacific Ocean by Oregon citizen prohibited , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors509.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).