The Two Categories of Commercial Fishing Permit in Oregon

If you are planning on commercially harvesting fish and/or shellfish in the state, you will be required to first get a commercial fishing permit in Oregon, but this isn’t quite as straightforward as it should be. Don’t worry, though, because we are here to explain this all to you to make it as easy as possible.

Getting Your Commercial Fishing Permit in Oregon

When looking to get a commercial fishing permit in Oregon, you need to remember that there are different categories of permits to keep in mind. You have to take this into consideration when it comes to applying for the corresponding licenses. We are here to guide you through these processes, so let’s take a look at the categories that you need to take into account at the time of applying.

Commercial Fishing Licenses

Here in Oregon, every individual operating or assisting in the operation of any commercial fishing gear or boat must have a commercial fishing license or crew member fishing license. Every member of the crew on a commercial fishing boat must be licensed, a process with which we at the Federal Commercial Fishing Permits Center can help. Remember that the license states that commercial harvesters must sell their catch to an Oregon-licensed wholesale fish dealer, bait dealer, canner, or buyer. That is, except under a Limited Fish Seller’s Permit, or a Columbia River gillnet harvester delivering to a licensed Washington fish dealer by boat. Remember that if you need to sort this out, we can also help you with that.

Commercial Shellfish Licenses

It’s important to know that a regular commercial fishing permit in Oregon doesn’t cover shellfish fishing due to the trade’s specific needs. Commercial shellfish harvesters or growers selling clams, oysters, mussels, or whole scallops for human consumption must be additionally licensed by the Oregon Department of Agriculture. An Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) commercial fishing license is required for harvesting wild shellfish. ODFW shellfish harvest permits are available at ODFW offices. On top of that, commercial shellfish harvesters and growers who sell for human consumption are limited to ODA-classified shellfish harvesting areas, which include portions of the Clatsop Beaches, Tillamook Bay, Netarts Bay, Yaquina Bay, Umpqua River and Triangle, Coos Bay, and South Slough. However, the list is constantly changing, so be sure to contact the ODA to obtain copies of the current management plans for areas where you plan to harvest. 

Apply For Oregon Fishing Permits

Given all the different kinds of permits, licenses, and stamps available for both residents and non-residents, it’s understandable that the application process can get confusing or complicated. Don’t worry, though, because that’s what the Federal Commercial Fishing Permits Center is here for. Our team can help you with any application process so that you can easily submit it to the corresponding authorities and receive the permit that you need. For more information about this process, or to inquire about any of the applications, feel free to reach out to us via phone or email. We are here to make it all easier for you.