Cole Rivers Hatchery is stocking one-pound trout in urban ponds to entice people to opt outside for Thanksgiving angling. This week, Reinhart Park Pond in Grants Pass is getting 500 rainbow trout while 1,500 will go into the Expo Pond in Central Point.

“These trout have been in our show ponds for a couple of years. They grow nicely thanks to public use of our pay feeders,” said assistant hatchery manager Craig Erwin. “We often release the fish this time of year as they outgrow their space at the hatchery, so the timing is perfect for the upcoming Free Fishing Weekend.”

A Free Fishing Weekend is set for Friday, November 25 and Saturday, November 26. Fishing, crabbing and clamming in Oregon is free – no licenses, tags or endorsements are needed. All other fishing regulations apply.

The 2015 Oregon Legislature set the November dates and December 31 and January 1 as additional Free Fishing Weekends as a way to introduce new anglers to the sport.

Check out the ODFW Rec Report for angling spots and conditions.