ODFW Family Fishing Event Slated at Sheridan Pond

ODFW volunteer angling instructor Jack Morby goes over the basics of trout fishing with Sunil, Caroline, Phillip, and Nihal Nazareth during the 2014 free family fishing event at Sheridan Pond. Family fishing returns to Sheridan Pond on Saturday, May 23, 2015. (Photo by Rick Swart/ODFW)

(SHERIDAN, Ore) — People interested in catching trout over the Memorial Day weekend may want to consider stopping by Sheridan on Saturday, May 23.

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife plans to release more than 2,000 for a free family fishing event that will take place at this popular Yamhill County fishing hole from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“We’ve got a nice batch of trout going into Sheridan Pond,” said Jeff Fulop, ODFW family fishing event coordinator.

In addition to 2,000 8-inch “legal-size” trout, ODFW plans to release 225 “pounders” ranging in size from 13 to 16 inches apiece especially for this event.

A feature of the ODFW Outdoors Program, the free fishing event is designed to introduce kids and their families to fishing. There is no charge to participate, and everything a person needs to be successful will be provided – rods, reels, lures, bait and instruction from experienced anglers. People who have their own gear are welcome to bring it along.

“Our goal is to make this as fun and easy as possible for everyone,” said Fulop. “We want to give parents the opportunity to enjoy a day of fishing with the kids in a safe, constructive atmosphere.”

Anglers 13 years old and younger do not need a fishing license. Anglers 14-17 years of age will need a juvenile fishing license, which can be purchased for $9 at any ODFW license agent, ODFW office or on-line at ODFW’s website, www.odfw.com. Everybody else must have an adult fishing license. Licenses will not be sold at the event so individuals planning to participate should obtain their licenses ahead of time.

Sheridan Pond is a 2 ½-acre pond located on the edge of town. An old mill pond, it has plenty of bank access, parking, and a restroom. To get there take Hwy. 18 to Exit 33 onto Balston Rd. Go south on Balston Rd. approximately half a mile and turn left onto a gravel road leading about a quarter mile to the pond.

Source: Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife