Anglers in For Ample Water, Good Weather as Trout Season Opens on Saturday

The Willamette system reservoirs are at or near capacity.

Salem-News.com

SALEM - Anglers looking for water and open boat ramps are in great shape this weekend for the state's opening day of trout season.

"We've had plenty of snow and rain to fill lakes and reservoirs statewide, even in eastern Oregon," said Ashley Massey, Public Affairs Specialist for the Oregon State Marine Board.

"The amount of water is exciting. Boaters are ready to get out there." Last year at this time, the winter drought left many wondering if there would be a boating season.

The popular high lakes of central Oregon are also in good shape but Paulina and East Lake are blocked by snow and ice.

In Eastern Oregon, Beulah, Warm Springs and Owyhee reservoirs are nearly full for the first time in several years.

Many of these waterbodies were recently stocked with trout.

"We're hearing from lots of boaters who are anxious to get out on the water," said Massey. "Now we just want them to be prepared, cautious and safe."

Massey offered advice to boaters getting ready to head to the waterways:

Check your boat for basic safety equipment -properly fitting life jackets for everyone on board, a sound producing device like a whistle or horn and a fire extinguisher if you have an enclosed gas tank.

Life jackets need to be worn to work -even strong swimmers will fade quickly in Oregon's cold spring waters. Remember, too, that youths 12 and younger must wear a properly fitting life jacket when boating.

Check your boat registration. If your tags don't read "06" or "07", visit your local boat registration agent to apply for new tags. The registration agent will provide you a temporary permit that is good for 60 days. Boaters can also register online at www.boatoregon.com. and print a copy of their temporary permit.

De-winterize your boat by charging the battery, and by making sure the boat has fresh gas, is full of oil and all the fittings have been properly greased, including the trailer's wheel bearings.

Be prepared for cold weather. Spring weather can change from pleasant to stormy very quickly. Hypothermia is a serious concern.

This year, boaters 50 and younger need to have a boater education card. Classroom and Internet courses are available, as well as equivalency exams for experienced boaters.

For more safety information, boating safety class schedules and equipment carriage requirements, visit the Marine Board's Web site at www.boatoregon.com.

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