🎣 Fishing & 🦌 Hunting in Wallowa County, Oregon

Outdoor Adventure in the Heart of the Wallowa's

Wallowa County is one of Oregon’s top destinations for outdoor sports, offering world-class fishing, big game hunting, and breathtaking wilderness access. From alpine lakes to river canyons, this area is ideal for both beginners and experienced outdoorsmen.

🎣 Fishing in Wallowa County

From peaceful lakes to wild rivers, anglers will find some of the best fishing in Northeast Oregon.

🐟 Top Fishing Locations

Wallowa Lake

• Trout, kokanee salmon

• Bank fishing + boat access

• Great for beginners and families

Wallowa River

• Steelhead and Chinook salmon (seasonal)

• Scenic access near Joseph and Minam

Grande Ronde River

• Famous for steelhead fishing

• Best for more experienced anglers

• Known for seasonal steelhead runs from fall through spring

Lostine River

• Trout fishing

• Quiet, less crowded

🎟️ Fishing Licenses (Required)

All anglers age 12+ must have an Oregon fishing license.

👉 Purchase through:

• Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife

• Online: myodfw.com

• Local retailers (see Sports Corral below)

✔ Typical options:

• Annual license

• Daily license (great for visitors)

• Combined fishing & shellfish licenses

👉 Regulations vary by river and season — always check current rules before fishing.

🦌 Hunting in Wallowa County

Wallowa County is known for its abundant wildlife and expansive public lands.

🐾 What You Can Hunt

Big Game Hunting

• Elk

• Mule deer

• Black bear

• Cougar

Bird Hunting

• Grouse

• Turkey

🌲 Where to Hunt

• Eagle Cap Wilderness

• Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

• Public lands throughout the county

👉 Many areas require tags and controlled hunt draws.

🪪 Hunting Licenses & Tags

Licenses are required for all hunters.

👉 Purchase through:

• Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife

• myodfw.com

• Local authorized dealers

✔ You may need:

• Hunting license

• Species tag (elk, deer, etc.)

• Controlled hunt application (for certain seasons)

🏪 Local Gear & Licensing

Sports Corral: click here

Sporting Goods

Address: 401 N Main St, Joseph, OR 97846

Phone: (541) 432-4363

✔ What they offer:

• Fishing licenses

• Hunting licenses & tags

• Ammo and hunting supplies

• Fishing gear and tackle

• Local advice on conditions and hot spots

👉 This is the go-to local shop for both visitors and residents.

📅 Seasons & Timing

(General guide — subject to change)

🎣 Fishing

• Open year-round in many areas

• Peak: Spring through Fall

• Steelhead: Late fall through spring

🦌 Hunting

• Archery seasons: Late summer / early fall

• Rifle seasons: Fall

• Controlled hunts: Vary by unit

👉 Always confirm exact dates with ODFW before planning.

⚠️ Important Tips for Visitors

• Check regulations before you go (rules change yearly)

• Many areas have limited cell service

• Be prepared for changing weather

• Respect private property boundaries

• Follow Leave No Trace principles

📞 Helpful Contacts

• Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
  🌐 myodfw.com

• Wallowa-Whitman National Forest
  📞 (541) 426-5546

• Sports Corral
  📞 (541) 432-4300

• Wallowa County Chamber of Commerce
  📞 (541) 426-4622
  🌐 https://wallowacountychamber.com

• ODFW Licensing & Info
  🌐 https://myodfw.com

🏔️ Why Hunt & Fish Here?

• Less crowded than other Oregon destinations

• Diverse wildlife and pristine waters

• Stunning mountain and wilderness scenery

Wallowa County offers a true outdoor experience—whether you're casting a line at sunrise or heading into the mountains for a hunt.

✅ Final Tip

Wallowa County offers a true outdoor experience, combining world-class fishing with rugged hunting opportunities. Whether you're casting a line in Wallowa Lake or heading into the backcountry, this area delivers one of Oregon’s most authentic outdoor adventures.