Spearfishing

Oregon Spearfishing
Regulations 2026

Allowed species, endorsement requirements, and freshwater vs. saltwater rules for spearfishing in Oregon. Oregon permits spearfishing in marine waters and for non-game fish in freshwater. A fishing license is required; specific species and area restrictions apply. Salmon and steelhead cannot be speared.

Saltwater Allowed Freshwater Allowed

2026 Spearfishing Quick Facts Verified 2026

Resident Fee

$44.00

Combination fishing license or annual fishing license covers spearfishing.

Non-Resident Fee

$124.50

Annual license

Saltwater

Allowed

With restrictions

Freshwater

Allowed

Game fish may be banned

Species Regulations

Allowed & Prohibited Species in Oregon

Allowed Species

Flounder, lingcod, rockfish in marine; carp, catfish in freshwater

Prohibited Species

Salmon, steelhead, trout in all waters; game fish in freshwater

Step-by-Step

How to Get a Spearfishing License in Oregon

Purchase a Fishing License

All spearfishing in Oregon requires a valid fishing license as the base credential. Purchase through Oregon Dept. of Fish & Wildlife online, at license agents, or by phone. Spearfishing license fee: $44.00.

Know the Rules

Review the specific allowed and prohibited species for the waters you intend to spearfish. Saltwater spearfishing is permitted with appropriate licensing. Check for any marine protected area restrictions at your planned dive site.

Check Location-Specific Rules

Marine protected areas, state parks, and wildlife management areas may have additional restrictions or prohibitions on spearfishing. Always verify the specific rules for your dive location with Oregon Dept. of Fish & Wildlife before entering the water.

Requirements

Oregon Spearfishing Requirements

Oregon fishing license required. Marine waters: observe all species limits and closed areas.

Important Notes

Oregon-Specific Regulations

Oregon allows spearfishing in both freshwater and saltwater with a valid Oregon Angling License; pole spears, spearguns, and Hawaiian slings are permitted unless a specific rule limits gear. Salmon, steelhead, and sturgeon may not be taken by spear in any Oregon waters, and spearfishing is prohibited in designated catch-and-release stream sections and within 200 feet of fish ladders or hatchery raceways. In coastal waters, lingcod and cabezon are popular spearfishing targets, subject to standard bag limits enforced by the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife.

Source: Oregon Dept. of Fish & Wildlife (www.dfw.state.or.us). Regulations verified 2026. Always confirm current species rules and location restrictions directly with Oregon Dept. of Fish & Wildlife.

Oregon