Salem, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife kicks off its Easy Angling Oregon program at the Pacific Northwest Sportsmen’s Show which begins a five-day run
Wednesday at the Portland Expo Center. Aimed at getting more families involved in fishing and other outdoor activities, Easy Angling Oregon is a component of ODFW’s Angler Education Program which offers a combination of literature, events and hands-on fishing advice.

“Fishing is a great family activity but many people just don’t know how to get started,” said Rhine Messemer, ODFW recreational fisheries program manager. “Our new Easy Angling Oregon publication helps families plan their first trips by giving them information about lakes and rivers that are good for beginning and intermediate anglers.”

The free 60-page Easy Angling Oregon booklet features detailed information on 34 lakes, ponds, rivers and reservoirs around the state that have been selected by ODFW biologists as ideal for families. The locations are all accessible by car, offer good fishing opportunities and have facilities such as picnic tables, toilets, boat ramps, drinking water and hiking trails. A number of sites provide ADA access.

To obtain a copy of the booklet, stop by the ODFW booth in Hall B of the Portland Expo Center. Staff members are on hand to talk to attendees about getting started in fishing and about Youth Angling events that are held throughout the year. An online version of the publication is available on the ODFW Web site, www.dfw.state.or.us.

The ODFW display area also features wildlife exhibits and provides hunters with an opportunity to talk to biologists and hunter education instructors. Attendees can buy 2007 fishing and hunting licenses at the booth.

“The Sportsmen’s Show is a great place to get together and talk about the fantastic opportunities we have for hunting and fishing in this state,” said Virgil Moore, ODFW director. “Our experts will be at the show every day to answer questions and share their knowledge.”

Show attendees can become part of the nationwide Anglers' Legacy initiative and share their passion for fishing by “taking the pledge” to take one new person fishing each year. Angler’s Legacy is a group of anglers from across the country who have made a promise to share their knowledge and expertise with someone new to the sport. There's no membership fee and no obligation. For more information, visit www.anglerslegacy.org.