Hunting in Oregon is a regulated by Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) activity that requires hunters to obtain specific licenses and tags before they can legally hunt. These regulations help maintain sustainable wildlife populations and ensure fair hunting opportunities.
Understanding Hunting Licenses and Tags in Oregon
What is a Hunting License?
A hunting license is a mandatory requirement for anyone who wants to hunt in Oregon. It grants legal permission to hunt, but it does not allow a hunter to harvest any specific animal.
What are Hunting Tags?
A hunting tag is a species-specific and often location-specific permit that allows a hunter to harvest a particular type of animal. Tags must be purchased separately for each species and are required for hunting big game animals like deer, elk, pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, and Rocky Mountain goat.
License and Tag Fees in Oregon
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) determines the cost of hunting licenses and tags. The fees for 2025 are as follows:
Hunting License Fees
• Resident: $34.50
• Nonresident: $172.00
Big Game Tag Fees
| Species | Resident | Nonresident |
|---|---|---|
| Deer | $28.50 | $443.50 |
| Elk | $49.50 | $588.00 |
| Pronghorn Antelope | $51.50 | $395.50 |
| Bighorn Sheep | $142.00 | $1,513.50 |
| Rocky Mountain Goat | $142.00 | $1,513.50 |
These fees must be paid separately for each animal a hunter intends to pursue. There is no annual fee that covers all animals—each species requires its own tag.
SOURCE LINK : Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
How to Obtain a Hunting License and Tags in Oregon
Purchasing a License and Tags Online
Hunters can purchase their licenses and tags online through the ODFW system by following these steps:
1. Create an Account:
• Visit the ODFW licensing page.
• Provide personal details such as name, date of birth, and contact information.
2. Select the Desired License and Tags
• Browse the available licenses and add them to the cart.
• Select the specific tags for the animals you plan to hunt.
3. Make a Payment
• Pay using a credit or debit card through the secure online portal.
4. Access and Carry Your Documents
• Print your licenses and tags at home, or
• Use the MyODFW app (iOS | Android) to store digital copies.
Purchasing at a Physical Location
Hunters can also buy licenses and tags at:
• ODFW offices
• Authorized license vendors (such as sporting goods stores)
For more details, visit the ODFW license purchase guide.
Controlled Hunts and Application Process
What is a Controlled Hunt?
A controlled hunt is a limited-entry hunting opportunity where a set number of hunters are allowed to participate. These are designed to manage wildlife populations and improve the hunting experience.
How to Apply for a Controlled Hunt
1. Application Period: The deadline to apply is May 15 every year.
2. Application Fee: A non-refundable fee of $8.00 per species is required.
3. Submission: Apply online through your ODFW account or at an authorized vendor.
4. Drawing Process and Results: A computerized lottery system randomly selects hunters. Results are typically announced by June 12.
For more information, visit ODFW’s controlled hunts page.
Mandatory Hunt Reporting Requirements
All hunters must report their hunt, whether successful or not.
• Deadline: Reports must be submitted by January 31 of the following year.
• Penalty for Non-Reporting: A $25.00 fine is imposed if a hunter fails to report.
• How to Report:
–> Online via the ODFW licensing system, or
–> At an ODFW license vendor.
More details are available at ODFW’s hunt reporting page.
Special Licenses and Discounts
ODFW offers special hunting licenses for specific groups:
Youth Hunters (Ages 12-17)
• Combination License: $10.00
• Youth Sports Pac: $55.00
Senior Resident Hunters (Ages 70+ with 5 Years of Residency)
• Hunting License: $22.00
• Combination License: $47.50
Disabled Veterans
• Combination License: Free for qualifying Oregon residents
For eligibility and application details, visit ODFW’s special licensing page.
Important Regulations and Hunting Seasons
General Rules
• Hunters must carry their license and tags at all times.
• It is illegal to hunt without a valid tag for the specific species and area.
• Poaching or exceeding bag limits can result in severe penalties, including license suspension.
Hunting Seasons
• Each species has a specific hunting season, which may vary by weapon type (rifle, archery, muzzleloader).
• To find the latest hunting seasons, check the ODFW Big Game Regulations.
Conclusion
Hunting in Oregon requires proper licensing and species-specific tags. Unlike some states that offer an annual fee for multiple species, Oregon requires separate tags for each animal. The process involves obtaining a hunting license, purchasing individual tags, and following strict regulations to ensure wildlife conservation.
By using the online system or purchasing from licensed vendors, hunters can easily secure their tags and licenses. Additionally, controlled hunts provide opportunities for limited-entry hunting experiences.
For up-to-date information, visit the official ODFW Big Game Hunting page.
Happy and responsible hunting! 🎯🐾
SOURCE LINK : Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
