The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has shut down hunting, fishing, crabbing, and clamming seasons for non-residents. This is mainly due to travel concerns amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Officials are concerned that this extra travel will cause too much of a burden, and would simply be too risky. They also worry that it would put too much of a strain on grocery stores and medical services. Several other states have implemented such regulation as well, which will not be lifted until COVID-19 rules relax.
Out-of-state hunters planning on hunting this spring may receive a refund for their permits, and preference points may be reinstated. However, this decision does not affect applications for big game hunting during the fall hunting season. Officials believe that during the fall season, things will be back to normal. Officials encourage those wishing to hunt to apply online.
“This action restricting non-residents helps local communities enforce restrictions on out-of-state travelers, which puts local resources and residents at risk. We appreciate everyone’s understanding at this difficult time and look forward to seeing you outdoors again when this passes.”
– Curt Melcher, ODFW Director
Residents planning on hunting this spring are reminded to practice social-distancing, and take appropriate measures to ensure safety of others. The ODFW asks resident hunters to stay closer to home, and bring supplies they already have in order to reduce non-essential stops. It appears, too, that residents of Oregon are respecting such recommendations. Monitoring by officials, has shown so far that most residents are not traveling far, and are staying home much more often.
Regardless of the frustration that comes with decisions like this, it is important that we all stay in this together, and respect such regulation.
Has your state made any restrictions on hunting?
