AFFECTING CHANGE: IT’S WHAT WE DO
Through the combined efforts of CCA Oregon’s professional staff in Salem and dedicated volunteers who testified before legislators and the ODFW Commission, key bills in 2025 were successfully advanced in both the House and Senate.
These outcomes underscore the value of sustained advocacy and the importance of maintaining a strong, professional presence in the state capitol. Along with our work in Salem, you will read about what our members accomplished in 2025.
HATCHERY INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING – SB 5505
Supported SB 5505, a capital construction bill that invests in critical infrastructure projects across the state. The legislation included $20.2 million for the ODFW to begin addressing a deferred hatchery maintenance backlog estimated at more than $200 million. This funding represents an important first step toward stabilizing Oregon’s hatchery system, which plays a key role in mitigating the impacts of development and supporting recreational fisheries statewide.
COLUMBIA RIVER ENDORSEMENT EXTENSION – HB 2343
Supported House Bill 2343, which extends the Columbia River Endorsement fee for an additional six years. Revenue from the endorsement continues to fund Columbia River fishery reforms that prioritize conservation and recreational fishing opportunity. The extension helps ensure ODFW remains aligned with reforms that limit mainstem gillnetting, rather than reverting to policies that would allow year-round commercial gillnet fisheries. Language previously authored by CCA Oregon remains in place, providing an automatic sunset of the endorsement should ODFW agree to increase gillnetting in the Columbia River. Passage of HB 2343 represents an important safeguard for balanced, conservation-focused management of the Columbia River fishery.
HATCHERY MONITORING AND MAINTENANCE FUNDING – HB 2345
Supported House Bill 2345, which redirects an existing recreational angler license surcharge from the Oregon Hatchery Research Center (OHRC) to a new Hatchery Monitoring and Maintenance Fund. The legislation is expected to redirect approximately $1.1 million per biennium for critical hatchery monitoring and maintenance activities that directly support Oregon’s fisheries.
HB 2345 represents an important course correction. CCA Oregon supported extending the license surcharge only if revenues were directed toward priority hatchery maintenance and monitoring programs that deliver clear, measurable value. Ensuring transparency and direct benefits for those paying the surcharge remains a guiding principle of CCA Oregon’s advocacy.
ODFW FEE INCREASE – HB 2342
CCA Oregon did not oppose House Bill 2342, which increased recreational fishing and hunting license fees over the next six years, contingent upon the passage of key companion legislation supporting hatcheries and fisheries. The bill raised fishing license fees by 14 percent in 2026, followed by additional increases of 6 percent in both 2028 and 2030. HB 2342 is expected to generate approximately $17 million in new recreational license revenue during the 2025–2027 biennium and $30 million in the 2027–2029 biennium.
During a February 24 committee hearing, CCA Oregon Chairman Dave Schamp emphasized that any fee increases must deliver clear value to anglers. He underscored the need for improved hatchery production, expanded fishing opportunities, and progress on long-standing policy issues, including gillnetting in the mainstem lower Columbia River. Passage of HB 2342, alongside related funding and policy measures, reflects a balanced approach to addressing ODFW’s financial needs while maintaining accountability to Oregon’s recreational anglers.
ODFW AGENCY BUDGET – HB 5009
CCA Oregon supported House Bill 5009, which established the ODFW’s 2025–2027 biennial budget. The bill provides funding from a combination of General Fund dollars, recreational license fees, federal funds, and other revenue sources. HB 5009 allocates approximately $66 million in General Fund support—about 10 percent of ODFW’s total $665 million biennial budget—an amount that remained essentially unchanged from the 2023–2025 biennium despite significant increases in operating costs. CCA Oregon is pressing for increased General Fun support for ODFW rather than solely balancing the agency’s budget on the backs of hunters and anglers.
ROCK CREEK HATCHERY FUNDING – HB 5006
CCA Oregon supported and successfully advocated for passage of House Bill 5006, which provides $1.4 million in one-time funding to the ODFW to maintain current hatchery production levels in the Umpqua Basin despite opposition from anti-hatcher groups. This funding allows ODFW to sustain spring and fall Chinook, winter steelhead, and coho production at Rock Creek Hatchery while the agency continues to work with the tribes on a long-term solution. Approximately $1 million of the allocation supports hatchery operations, with an additional $400,000 dedicated to research focused on estimating predation impacts from bass on out-migrating juvenile salmon and steelhead.
TILLAMOOK BAY EELGRASS PROTECTION
Working in collaboration with like-minded conservation organizations, CCA Oregon supported successful efforts to halt mechanical oyster harvesting by Pacific Seafoods in Tillamook Bay. This action marked an important step toward restoring and protecting the long-term health of the bay. Mechanical oyster harvesting, which involves dredging the bay bottom, uproots eelgrass beds leaving vegetation drifting freely, impacting both habitat and water quality.
From an ecological perspective, intact eelgrass meadows are essential to a healthy estuary. Eelgrass provides critical habitat for juvenile fish, crabs, and other marine species, stabilizes sediments, reduces erosion, and helps buffer against ocean acidification by capturing carbon. Maintaining healthy eelgrass also benefits recreational fishing by reducing floating vegetation that can interfere with angling and boating activity. CCA Oregon’s involvement in this effort reflects its commitment to balanced resource management that supports conservation, fishing opportunity, and the long-term sustainability of Oregon’s coastal estuaries.
SANDY RIVER GILLNET SANCTUARY
CCA Oregon formally requested that the ODFW redraw the gillnet sanctuary boundary at the mouth of the Sandy River to better protect migrating salmon and steelhead. Low river flows during the fall—when gillnets are most commonly deployed—leave much of the existing sanctuary boundary on dry land, significantly reducing its effectiveness. Until the boundary is expanded, the sanctuary will not provide the intended protection from gillnet impacts in this portion of the Columbia River, particularly for the easterly mouth of the Sandy. CCA Oregon will continue to work with ODFW to address this issue.
SMALL-MESH GILLNET (TANGLE-NET) FISHERY
CCA Oregon, working alongside CCA Washington, raised concerns regarding recent expansions of the small-mesh gillnet (commonly known as the “tangle-net”) fishery on the lower Columbia River. While this fishery was originally authorized under Columbia River reforms to target hatchery coho, its scale has increased in recent years, coinciding with strong commercial catches in off-channel areas.
Although designed to harvest hatchery coho, current regulations allow the retention and sale of both wild and hatchery Chinook caught as bycatch. Landing data from this fishery showed that Chinook comprised approximately one-third of total landings, raising concerns about impacts to weak Chinook stocks, including those in the lower Columbia River.
In September, CCA Oregon and CCA Washington jointly submitted a letter to the ODFW and the WDFW requesting action to address broodstock shortfalls at the Cowlitz Hatchery. Specifically, the organizations urged the Compact to prohibit the sale of Chinook in this fishery until fall Chinook broodstock goals are met. These concerns underscore the importance of aligning commercial fisheries with conservation objectives and long-standing policies that prioritize recreational fishing opportunities for coho.
SILETZ RIVER SMOLT INCREASE ADVOCACY
CCA Oregon voiced strong support for the Siletz Anglers Association’s request to install a lower Siletz River acclimation pond at Illahee Park in the town of Siletz. The proposed facility would allow for the release of approximately 70,000 winter steelhead smolts. Despite our efforts, and those of the SAA, the department did not fund the additional smolts.
ODFW HATCHERY RESILIENCE REVIEW
CCA Oregon remained actively engaged in the ODFW’s Hatchery Resilience Review, helping redirect the process from a critique of hatchery programs to a forward-looking roadmap focused on long-term sustainability. Through this engagement, CCA Oregon emphasized the need for stable funding for hatchery operations and deferred maintenance to ensure hatcheries continue to support fisheries across the state.
COLUMBIA RIVER BARBLESS HOOK REQUIREMENT
CCA Oregon provided formal testimony at the December Fish and Wildlife Commission in support of revising the current barbless hook requirement on the Columbia River. As part of this effort, CCA Oregon produced a clear, one-page overview outlining key considerations and potential paths forward. This document helped frame ongoing discussion and serves as a practical foundation for evaluating incremental changes to the rule while maintaining conservation objectives and fishing opportunity.
FIN CLIPPING
CCA Oregon provided formal testimony at the December Fish and Wildlife Commission in support of revising the current barbless hook requirement on the Columbia River. As part of this effort, CCA Oregon produced a clear, one-page overview outlining key considerations and potential paths forward. This document helped frame ongoing discussion and serves as a practical foundation for evaluating incremental changes to the rule while maintaining conservation objectives and fishing opportunity.
HATCHERY VOLUNTEERING
CCA Oregon provided formal testimony at the December Fish and Wildlife Commission in support of revising the current barbless hook requirement on the Columbia River. As part of this effort, CCA Oregon produced a clear, one-page overview outlining key considerations and potential paths forward. This document helped frame ongoing discussion and serves as a practical foundation for evaluating incremental changes to the rule while maintaining conservation objectives and fishing opportunity.
TURN IN POACHES (TIP) PROGRAM PARTNERSHIP
For a second consecutive year, CCA Oregon partnered with conservation groups to support the Turn In Poachers Program, contributing $1,000 annually. Funding doubled rewards for reporting illegal fishing, strengthening enforcement, encouraging public involvement, and protecting salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, halibut, and ethical angling across Oregon.
RAISING 2 MILLION SMOLTS
CCA Oregon supports maintenance of the Trout Creek Acclimation Pond, raising spring Chinook smolts for the Molalla River basin. More than two million smolts have been released through volunteer-led operations, supported by grants and donations, with agencies providing fish and feed while volunteers handle daily care and maintenance.
OUTREACH, VOLUNTEERING IS AT THE CORE OF OUR MISSION
CCA Oregon’s success is built on the dedication of volunteers who generously give their time and energy to support conservation, advocacy, and education across the state. Through a wide range of outreach events, volunteers help support fisheries projects, and efforts to protect and enhance Oregon’s recreational fishing opportunities. What follows is a snapshot of how we affected change in 2025.
CCA DAY IN SALEM
In early April, more than 70 CCA Oregon members traveled to the State Capitol to voice their support for the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s budget request (SB 5505). The strong showing—marked by a sea of red CCA hats throughout the Capitol—did not go unnoticed. Legislators frequently commented on the visible presence of CCA members in the halls and hearing rooms. In addition to our members showing up in force, Chairman Dave Schamp and Bruce Polley, GRC committee member, were there to testify in front of legislators. The turnout demonstrated the importance we placed on securing adequate funding for hatchery operations.
HATCHERY OUTREACH VIDEO
CCA Oregon partnered with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife to produce a five-minute educational film highlighting the critical role hatcheries play in Oregon’s fisheries. The film was featured on a continuous loop throughout the Pacific Northwest Sportsman’s Show in Portland, reaching thousands of anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. This collaboration underscores ODFW’s recognition that CCA Oregon is a trusted partner in communicating complex fisheries issues to the public.
ODFW PASSPORT PROJECT
Northwest Sportsman’s Show in Portland. CCA Oregon was one of five participating organizations selected to engage attendees through this interactive outreach effort. Participants were encouraged to visit each organization’s booth to collect passport stamps, with those completing all five stops eligible to receive a prize. Working in partnership with the ODFW, this project increased showgoer’s awareness of CCA Oregon while at the same time allowed us to educate anglers of CCA Oregon’s conservation efforts.
MEMBER EDUCATION: ZOOM GUEST SPEAKERS
In support of our ongoing commitment to inform and engage our members, CCA Oregon hosted four Zoom meetings during the past year featuring respected leaders and experts in fisheries management, advocacy, and angling. Guest speakers included ODFW Director Dr. Debbie Colbert, ODFW Deputy Director Dr. Shaun Clements, CCA Oregon State Lobbyist Shawn Miller, and Jason Hambly of Pro-Cure. Discussion topics ranged from effective use of scents to improve salmon and steelhead fishing, to advocacy efforts at the state capitol, and collaborative work between ODFW and CCA Oregon aimed at expanding and improving fishing opportunities for recreational anglers.
CCA OREGON SUMMER PICNIC
The Willamette Falls Chapter hosted its annual summer picnic in late July at Milo McIver State Park along the Clackamas River, drawing 85 attendees. This family-friendly event is a cornerstone of the chapter’s youth outreach efforts, with a strong focus on introducing young anglers to fishing and conservation. Chapter members provided hands-on instruction, helping kids learn basic fishing skills. In addition to numerous door prizes, every youth (19 of which were 17 and younger) in attendance received a one-year CCA Oregon Youth Membership, a personalized tackle box, and a Fisherman’s Marine & Outdoor gift card—ensuring each young angler left with both new skills and tools to continue their fishing journey.
SANDY RIVER CLEANUP PARTNERSHIP
The Mt. Hood Chapter again partnered with the Sandy River Chapter of the Northwest Steelheaders for a successful bi-annual cleanup along the Sandy River in Troutdale. The events brought together dedicated volunteers from both organizations. Working side by side, volunteers removed 36 large bags of garbage and hauled out 27 bulky items, including storage totes filled with discarded clothing, portable RV waste containers, tables, and bicycle parts. Hazardous materials collected during the cleanup were safely transported to Metro for proper disposal, preventing potential harm to the river and surrounding habitat. Held each spring and fall, this cleanup effort highlights the importance of preserving fish habitat and improving access to clean, healthy rivers for anglers and the public alike.
DRIFT BOAT DRAWING FUNDRAISER
CCA Oregon’s Willie Drift Boat Drawing concluded with a live televised drawing on Outdoor GPS on November 2, making it one of the most anticipated fundraising moments of 2025. The broadcast provided significant visibility for both the fundraiser and CCA Oregon’s mission. Drift boat winner Randy Wasch watched live when host Owin Hayes read his name, adding to the excitement of the event. Additional prize winners included Kirk St. Clair (Camp Chef Pellet Grill), Dyson Dollarhide (Engel 60-Quart cooler), and Dane Dials (Okuma rod and reel combo).
FIN CLIPPING ONE FISH AT A TIME
Between the Whiskey Creek and Rhoades Pond fin-clipping events, more than 200,000 juvenile salmon are clipped and released each year through long-standing, community-driven conservation efforts. These events routinely draw 300 to 400 volunteers who return year after year to support this hands-on work, which plays an important role in fisheries management.
These efforts are led by established local organizations and agency partners, with support from a broad base of volunteers, including members of CCA Oregon. The Tillamook Anglers Association has owned and managed Whiskey Creek Hatchery since the late 1980s, sustained through memberships and donations, while the ODFW supplies the fish. Rhoades Pond is co-managed by ODFW and the Nestucca Anglers’ STEP program. Over the past 26 years, the Rhoades Pond fin-clipping event alone has contributed to the release of more than 2 million smolts, demonstrating the long-term impact of collaborative, volunteer-supported conservation.
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
A highlight of CCA Oregon’s statewide banquet and awards ceremony is the opportunity to recognize individuals and chapters whose dedication and service strengthen our organization. This past year, Executive Director Pat Hoglund presented the Chapter of the Year award to the Willamette Falls Chapter in recognition of its outstanding leadership and accomplishments. The evening also celebrated individual achievements and long-term service. Pat Murray, President of CCA National, was in attendance to present the Lifetime Achievement Award to Jack Smith.
Four individuals were inducted into the CCA Oregon Hall of Fame: Travis Moncrief, Julie Monroe-Falk, Jerry Massey, and Alex Brauer. Their contributions reflect years of commitment to conservation, advocacy, and community engagement. In addition, five members received Distinguished Volunteer Awards for their exceptional service and dedication: Susan Parker, Frank Unger, Lynn Buerer, Dennis Wise, and Jim Skaar. Together, these honorees exemplify the passion and volunteer spirit that drive CCA Oregon’s success.
REINTRODUCING CHUM SALMON
Several volunteers continued to embody CCA Oregon’s commitment to giving back to the resource. This past year Jerry Massey and Alex Brauer helped with the reintroduction of chum salmon to North Coast river systems, working in coordination with Big Creek Hatchery on the lower Columbia River. This hands-on volunteer work plays a critical role in rebuilding chum salmon populations and restoring historic runs, while demonstrating the value of grassroots conservation.
15 NEW LIFE MEMBERS
This past year, CCA Oregon proudly welcomed 15 new Life Members, a meaningful milestone that reflects a long-term commitment to fisheries conservation, advocacy, and the future of recreational angling in Oregon. By choosing a Life Membership, these individuals demonstrated their belief in CCA Oregon’s mission and their dedication to protecting salmon, steelhead, and marine resources for generations to come.
We are grateful for the following members who made this lasting commitment, representing chapters across the state:
- David Chonjacki, Tillamook
- Tristen Huget, Willamette Falls
- Cliff DeBlois, Willamette Falls
- Wade Radke, Hood
- Sheila Ousley, Hood
- Bryan Edwards, Hood
- Jeff Martinez, South Willamette Valley
- Katie Sexton, Columbia County
- Alex Brauer, Tualatin Valley
- Kurt Knutson, South Willamette Valley
- Danny Raymond, South Willamette Valley
- Shawn Wilkinson, Columbia River Gorge
- Dennis Campo, Tillamook
- Jim Earley, South Willamette Valley
- Nichole Crossley, Tillamook
TURN IN POACHERS (TIP) PROGRAM PARTNERSHIP
For the second year in a row, CCA Oregon partnered with the Oregon Hunters Association and other conservation organizations to support the TIP (Turn In Poachers) Program. Through this collaborative effort, CCA Oregon committed $1,000 annually to help strengthen enforcement and encourage public reporting of illegal fishing activity.
These funds were used to increase cash rewards for key violations from $200 to $400, providing a stronger incentive for citizens to report poaching and other unlawful practices. Enhanced reward amounts apply to offenses involving salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, and halibut, as well as snagging or attempting to snag fish. By continuing this partnership for a second consecutive year, CCA Oregon reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Oregon’s fisheries, supporting law enforcement, and promoting ethical angling practices.
OUTDOOR GPS MEDIA PARTNERSHIP
CCA Oregon continued its partnership with Outdoor GPS, maintaining a strong media presence that helps reinforce our mission and reach a broader audience of anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. Through this ongoing partnership, CCA Oregon aired advertising spots on the program, reinforcing awareness of our conservation, advocacy, and volunteer efforts statewide. In addition, CCA Oregon members were frequent guests on the show.
SPORTSMEN’S SHOW OUTREACH
CCA Oregon continued to maintain a strong presence at sportsmen’s shows throughout the state, using these events to engage anglers, share conservation messaging, and recruit new members. The Linn-Benton Chapter staffed a booth at the Willamette Sportsman Show, while Salem Chapter members represented CCA Oregon at the Saltwater Sportfishing Show. South Willamette Chapter President Danny Raymond led outreach efforts across sportsmen’s shows in the Eugene area and Southern Oregon, expanding CCA Oregon’s visibility in the region. At the Pacific Northwest Sportsman’s Show in Portland—the largest event of its kind in the state—CCA Oregon featured a 20-foot booth, providing a prominent platform to connect with thousands of attendees. Together, these efforts reflect the dedication of CCA Oregon’s volunteers and chapters to meeting anglers where they are and advancing conservation awareness statewide.
TROUT CREEK ACCLIMATION POND
Led by Willamette Falls Chapter member Gary Wise, CCA Oregon helps to maintain the Trout Creek Acclimation Pond, which raises spring Chinook smolts for the Molalla River basin. To date, more than 2 million smolts have been raised and released through this facility. The project is supported through grants, local businesses, individual donors, and volunteers, with the Willamette Falls Chapter managing a dedicated Molalla River Project Account. ODFW supplies the fish, feed, and pre-release sampling, while CCA Oregon volunteers provide daily feeding, routine maintenance, and assistance with fish sampling—demonstrating hands-on stewardship that directly benefits local fisheries.
DR. COLBERT KEYNOTE SPEAKER
ODFW Director Dr. Debbie Colbert delivered the keynote address at the state banquet and awards ceremony in November. Her talk highlighted the importance of hatcheries in Oregon and how CCA Oregon’s partnership was critical in helping to secure funding during the 2025 Legislature session.
SALMON & STEELHEAD JOURNAL ADVERTISING PARTNERSHIP
CCA Oregon continued its advertising partnership with Salmon & Steelhead Journal through the placement of full-page advertisements throughout the year. These ads provided consistent, high-visibility exposure for CCA Oregon’s mission, highlighting our conservation work, advocacy efforts, events, and opportunities for member involvement.
OUTREACH, VOLUNTEERING IS AT THE COUR OF OUR MISSION
CCA Oregon’s success is built on the dedication of volunteers who generously give their time and energy to support conservation, advocacy, and education across the state. Through a wide range of outreach events, volunteers help support fisheries projects, and efforts to protect and enhance Oregon’s recreational fishing opportunities. What follows is a snapshot of how we affected change in 2025.
CCA DAY IN SALEM
In early April, more than 70 CCA Oregon members traveled to the State Capitol to voice their support for the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s budget request (SB 5505). The strong showing—marked by a sea of red CCA hats throughout the Capitol—did not go unnoticed. Legislators frequently commented on the visible presence of CCA members in the halls and hearing rooms. In addition to our members showing up in force, Chairman Dave Schamp and Bruce Polley, GRC committee member, were there to testify in front of legislators. The turnout demonstrated the importance we placed on securing adequate funding for hatchery operations.
HATCHERY OUTREACH VIDEO
CCA Oregon partnered with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife to produce a five-minute educational film highlighting the critical role hatcheries play in Oregon’s fisheries. The film was featured on a continuous loop throughout the Pacific Northwest Sportsman’s Show in Portland, reaching thousands of anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. This collaboration underscores ODFW’s recognition that CCA Oregon is a trusted partner in communicating complex fisheries issues to the public.
ODFW PASSPORT PROJECT
Northwest Sportsman’s Show in Portland. CCA Oregon was one of five participating organizations selected to engage attendees through this interactive outreach effort. Participants were encouraged to visit each organization’s booth to collect passport stamps, with those completing all five stops eligible to receive a prize. Working in partnership with the ODFW, this project increased showgoer’s awareness of CCA Oregon while at the same time allowed us to educate anglers of CCA Oregon’s conservation efforts.
MEMBER EDUCATION: ZOOM GUEST SPEAKERS
In support of our ongoing commitment to inform and engage our members, CCA Oregon hosted four Zoom meetings during the past year featuring respected leaders and experts in fisheries management, advocacy, and angling. Guest speakers included ODFW Director Dr. Debbie Colbert, ODFW Deputy Director Dr. Shaun Clements, CCA Oregon State Lobbyist Shawn Miller, and Jason Hambly of Pro-Cure. Discussion topics ranged from effective use of scents to improve salmon and steelhead fishing, to advocacy efforts at the state capitol, and collaborative work between ODFW and CCA Oregon aimed at expanding and improving fishing opportunities for recreational anglers.
CCA OREGON SUMMER PICNIC
The Willamette Falls Chapter hosted its annual summer picnic in late July at Milo McIver State Park along the Clackamas River, drawing 85 attendees. This family-friendly event is a cornerstone of the chapter’s youth outreach efforts, with a strong focus on introducing young anglers to fishing and conservation. Chapter members provided hands-on instruction, helping kids learn basic fishing skills. In addition to numerous door prizes, every youth (19 of which were 17 and younger) in attendance received a one-year CCA Oregon Youth Membership, a personalized tackle box, and a Fisherman’s Marine & Outdoor gift card—ensuring each young angler left with both new skills and tools to continue their fishing journey.
SANDY RIVER CLEANUP PARTNERSHIP
The Mt. Hood Chapter again partnered with the Sandy River Chapter of the Northwest Steelheaders for a successful bi-annual cleanup along the Sandy River in Troutdale. The events brought together dedicated volunteers from both organizations. Working side by side, volunteers removed 36 large bags of garbage and hauled out 27 bulky items, including storage totes filled with discarded clothing, portable RV waste containers, tables, and bicycle parts. Hazardous materials collected during the cleanup were safely transported to Metro for proper disposal, preventing potential harm to the river and surrounding habitat. Held each spring and fall, this cleanup effort highlights the importance of preserving fish habitat and improving access to clean, healthy rivers for anglers and the public alike.
DRIFT BOAT DRAWING FUNDRAISER
CCA Oregon’s Willie Drift Boat Drawing concluded with a live televised drawing on Outdoor GPS on November 2, making it one of the most anticipated fundraising moments of 2025. The broadcast provided significant visibility for both the fundraiser and CCA Oregon’s mission. Drift boat winner Randy Wasch watched live when host Owin Hayes read his name, adding to the excitement of the event. Additional prize winners included Kirk St. Clair (Camp Chef Pellet Grill), Dyson Dollarhide (Engel 60-Quart cooler), and Dane Dials (Okuma rod and reel combo).
FIN CLIPPING ONE FISH AT A TIME
Between the Whiskey Creek and Rhoades Pond fin-clipping events, more than 200,000 juvenile salmon are clipped and released each year through long-standing, community-driven conservation efforts. These events routinely draw 300 to 400 volunteers who return year after year to support this hands-on work, which plays an important role in fisheries management.
These efforts are led by established local organizations and agency partners, with support from a broad base of volunteers, including members of CCA Oregon. The Tillamook Anglers Association has owned and managed Whiskey Creek Hatchery since the late 1980s, sustained through memberships and donations, while the ODFW supplies the fish. Rhoades Pond is co-managed by ODFW and the Nestucca Anglers’ STEP program. Over the past 26 years, the Rhoades Pond fin-clipping event alone has contributed to the release of more than 2 million smolts, demonstrating the long-term impact of collaborative, volunteer-supported conservation.
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
A highlight of CCA Oregon’s statewide banquet and awards ceremony is the opportunity to recognize individuals and chapters whose dedication and service strengthen our organization. This past year, Executive Director Pat Hoglund presented the Chapter of the Year award to the Willamette Falls Chapter in recognition of its outstanding leadership and accomplishments. The evening also celebrated individual achievements and long-term service. Pat Murray, President of CCA National, was in attendance to present the Lifetime Achievement Award to Jack Smith.
Four individuals were inducted into the CCA Oregon Hall of Fame: Travis Moncrief, Julie Monroe-Falk, Jerry Massey, and Alex Brauer. Their contributions reflect years of commitment to conservation, advocacy, and community engagement. In addition, five members received Distinguished Volunteer Awards for their exceptional service and dedication: Susan Parker, Frank Unger, Lynn Buerer, Dennis Wise, and Jim Skaar. Together, these honorees exemplify the passion and volunteer spirit that drive CCA Oregon’s success.
REINTRODUCING CHUM SALMON
Several volunteers continued to embody CCA Oregon’s commitment to giving back to the resource. This past year Jerry Massey and Alex Brauer helped with the reintroduction of chum salmon to North Coast river systems, working in coordination with Big Creek Hatchery on the lower Columbia River. This hands-on volunteer work plays a critical role in rebuilding chum salmon populations and restoring historic runs, while demonstrating the value of grassroots conservation.
15 NEW LIFE MEMBERS
This past year, CCA Oregon proudly welcomed 15 new Life Members, a meaningful milestone that reflects a long-term commitment to fisheries conservation, advocacy, and the future of recreational angling in Oregon. By choosing a Life Membership, these individuals demonstrated their belief in CCA Oregon’s mission and their dedication to protecting salmon, steelhead, and marine resources for generations to come.
We are grateful for the following members who made this lasting commitment, representing chapters across the state:
- David Chonjacki, Tillamook
- Tristen Huget, Willamette Falls
- Cliff DeBlois, Willamette Falls
- Wade Radke, Hood
- Sheila Ousley, Hood
- Bryan Edwards, Hood
- Jeff Martinez, South Willamette Valley
- Katie Sexton, Columbia County
- Alex Brauer, Tualatin Valley
- Kurt Knutson, South Willamette Valley
- Danny Raymond, South Willamette Valley
- Shawn Wilkinson, Columbia River Gorge
- Dennis Campo, Tillamook
- Jim Earley, South Willamette Valley
- Nichole Crossley, Tillamook
TURN IN POACHERS (TIP) PROGRAM PARTNERSHIP
For the second year in a row, CCA Oregon partnered with the Oregon Hunters Association and other conservation organizations to support the TIP (Turn In Poachers) Program. Through this collaborative effort, CCA Oregon committed $1,000 annually to help strengthen enforcement and encourage public reporting of illegal fishing activity.
These funds were used to increase cash rewards for key violations from $200 to $400, providing a stronger incentive for citizens to report poaching and other unlawful practices. Enhanced reward amounts apply to offenses involving salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, and halibut, as well as snagging or attempting to snag fish. By continuing this partnership for a second consecutive year, CCA Oregon reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Oregon’s fisheries, supporting law enforcement, and promoting ethical angling practices.
OUTDOOR GPS MEDIA PARTNERSHIP
CCA Oregon continued its partnership with Outdoor GPS, maintaining a strong media presence that helps reinforce our mission and reach a broader audience of anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. Through this ongoing partnership, CCA Oregon aired advertising spots on the program, reinforcing awareness of our conservation, advocacy, and volunteer efforts statewide. In addition, CCA Oregon members were frequent guests on the show.
SPORTSMEN’S SHOW OUTREACH
CCA Oregon continued to maintain a strong presence at sportsmen’s shows throughout the state, using these events to engage anglers, share conservation messaging, and recruit new members. The Linn-Benton Chapter staffed a booth at the Willamette Sportsman Show, while Salem Chapter members represented CCA Oregon at the Saltwater Sportfishing Show. South Willamette Chapter President Danny Raymond led outreach efforts across sportsmen’s shows in the Eugene area and Southern Oregon, expanding CCA Oregon’s visibility in the region. At the Pacific Northwest Sportsman’s Show in Portland—the largest event of its kind in the state—CCA Oregon featured a 20-foot booth, providing a prominent platform to connect with thousands of attendees. Together, these efforts reflect the dedication of CCA Oregon’s volunteers and chapters to meeting anglers where they are and advancing conservation awareness statewide.
TROUT CREEK ACCLIMATION POND
Led by Willamette Falls Chapter member Gary Wise, CCA Oregon helps to maintain the Trout Creek Acclimation Pond, which raises spring Chinook smolts for the Molalla River basin. To date, more than 2 million smolts have been raised and released through this facility. The project is supported through grants, local businesses, individual donors, and volunteers, with the Willamette Falls Chapter managing a dedicated Molalla River Project Account. ODFW supplies the fish, feed, and pre-release sampling, while CCA Oregon volunteers provide daily feeding, routine maintenance, and assistance with fish sampling—demonstrating hands-on stewardship that directly benefits local fisheries.
DR. COLBERT KEYNOTE SPEAKER
ODFW Director Dr. Debbie Colbert delivered the keynote address at the state banquet and awards ceremony in November. Her talk highlighted the importance of hatcheries in Oregon and how CCA Oregon’s partnership was critical in helping to secure funding during the 2025 Legislature session.
SALMON & STEELHEAD JOURNAL ADVERTISING PARTNERSHIP
CCA Oregon continued its advertising partnership with Salmon & Steelhead Journal through the placement of full-page advertisements throughout the year. These ads provided consistent, high-visibility exposure for CCA Oregon’s mission, highlighting our conservation work, advocacy efforts, events, and opportunities for member involvement.