Newsroom

CORVALLIS, Ore. - The Oregon Hatchery Research Center will offer a free fishing day and open house on Saturday, June 6, at the center, which is located just off Highway 34 about 13 miles west of the town of Alsea. The event will run from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

A small pond for children ages 5 and under will be set up at the center and it will have access for the disabled. It will be stocked with rainbow trout and fishing gear, bait and assistance will be provided, if needed.

The free fishing day extends to nearby Thissel Pond, located approximately a half-mile from the center. A free shuttle will transport anglers to Thissel Pond, which is also stocked with trout, but does not have disability access.

The center will also be open for tours and exhibits. Concessions will be available on-site as a fund-raiser for the Alsea High School girls basketball team.

Free fishing day at the Oregon Hatchery Research Center coincides with the free fishing weekend established by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, thus no licenses are necessary.

To reach the center, travel about 13 miles past the town of Alsea on Highway 34 and turn north at milepost 27 onto East Fall Creek Road. Drive about 2.5 miles on that road to reach the center.

Hatchery managers caution visitors to drive carefully on the gravel road and obey the 25-mile-per-hour speed limit, and be aware of pedestrians - especially children - on or near the road.

The center is a collaborative project between ODFW and Oregon State University. The free fishing day is sponsored by ODFW, Siuslaw National Forest, and the Alsea Sportsman's Association.