[OSMB-News] News Release

[Ashley MASSEY]

For Immediate Release	Date: Thursday, April 20, 2006

Boat Anglers In For Ample Water, Fish

Trout Season Opens Saturday, April 22

	Anglers looking for water and open boat ramps are in great shape
this weekend for the state's opening day of trout season.  "We've
had plenty of snow and rain to fill lakes and reservoirs statewide, even
in eastern Oregon," said Ashley Massey, Public Affairs Specialist for
the Oregon State Marine Board.  "The amount of water is exciting. 
Boaters are ready to get out there."
	Last year at this time, the winter drought left many wondering
if there would be a boating season. This year is very different. The
Willamette system reservoirs are at or near capacity.  The popular high
lakes of central Oregon are also in good shape but Paulina and East Lake
are blocked by snow and ice.  In Eastern Oregon, Beulah, Warm Springs
and Owyhee reservoirs are nearly full for the first time in several
years.  Many of these waterbodies were recently stocked with trout.
	"We're hearing from lots of boaters who are anxious to get out
on the water," said Massey.  "Now we just want them to be prepared,
cautious and safe."
	Massey offered this advice to boaters getting ready to head to
the waterways:
*	Check your boat for basic safety equipment -properly fitting
life jackets for everyone on board, a sound producing device like a
whistle or horn and a fire extinguisher if you have an enclosed gas
tank.
*	Life jackets need to be worn to work -even strong swimmers will
fade quickly in Oregon's cold waters.  Remember, too, that youths 12
and younger must wear a properly fitting life jacket when boating.
*	Check your boat registration.  If your tags don't read "05" or
"06", visit your local boat registration agent to apply for new tags. 
The registration agent will provide you a temporary permit that is good
for 60 days. Boaters can also register online at www.boatoregon.com. and
print a copy of their temporary permit.
*	De-winterize your boat by charging the battery, and by making
sure the boat has fresh gas, is full of oil and all the fittings have
been properly greased, including the trailer's wheel bearings.  
*	Be prepared for cold weather.  Spring weather can change from
pleasant to stormy very quickly.  Hypothermia is a serious concern.
*	This year, boaters 50 and younger need to have a boater
education card.  Classroom and Internet courses are available, as well
as equivalency exams for experienced boaters.  
For more safety information, boating safety class schedules and
equipment carriage requirements, visit the Marine Board's website at
www.boatoregon.com.
###


Ashley A. Massey
Public Affairs Specialist
Oregon State Marine Board
503-378-2623
503-378-8587 ext. 82623
ashley.massey at state.or.us