Boat Anglers Expect Good Access, Ample Water
Trout Season Opens Saturday, April 27
Anglers looking for blue water and open boat ramps will find them this weekend for the state's opening day of trout season. "We've had enough snow to fill lakes and most reservoirs statewide," said Randy Henry, information representative for the Oregon State Marine Board. "Conditions are wonderful compared to last year. What a difference a year makes."
Last year at this time, drought left many reservoirs with difficult access and a panorama of stumps and bare lake bed. This year is very different. The popular Willamette system reservoirs are at or near capacity. The popular high lakes of central Oregon are also in good shape. "East, Lava and Elk lakes are still frozen or snowed in and won't open for a few weeks," said Henry. "But Paulina, Crane, Wickiup, Odell – all of those will be open, have access and, hopefully, lots of fish."
"We're hearing from lots of boaters who are anxious to get out on the water," said Henry. "Now we just want them to be cautious and safe."
So far this year, five recreational boaters have died and all but one was fishing at the time. Only one of those five was wearing a life jacket. Henry offered this advice to keep safe:
- Check your boat for basic safety equipment - appropriately sized life jackets, a sound-making device like a whistle or horn and a fire extinguisher if you have an enclosed gas tank.
- Life jackets are ineffective if not worn – even strong swimmers will fade quickly in Oregon's cold waters. Remember, too, that youths 12 and younger must wear an appropriately sized life jacket when boating.
- Check your boat registration. If your tags don't read "02" or "03", visit your local boat registration agent to apply for new tags. They will provide you a temporary operator permit that is good until your tags come in the mail.
- Make sure your gas tank has fresh gas in it. Check your motor or give it a tune-up before you get to the lake, too.
- Be prepared for cold weather. Spring weather can change from pleasant to dangerous very quickly. Hypothermia can set in quickly.
For more safety information, check the Marine Board's web site at www.boatoregon.com.
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