Non-Motorized Boating and Paddling

Permits can be purchased through ODFW's eLicensing system and one and two-year permits through the Marine Board's Boat Oregon Store. 

Purchasing options are: One week for $7 (valid for 7-days from the date of purchase available only through ODFW), one calendar year for $17, and two calendar years for $30. Tyvek tags are no longer sold.

Failure to show the permit is a Class D violation with a $115 fine.

Trip Planning and Preparation

1. Always wear a properly fitting life jacket and know how to swim in a river current. 
   
2. Carry a sound-producing device, like a whistle.
   
3. Print a Float Plan to leave with family or friends, so they know when you'll return and call for help if you don't return when expected.
   
4. Never boat under the influence of alcohol, drugs, marijuana, or inhalants.
   
5. Never paddle on an outgoing tide. 
6. Never paddle alone.  Bring along at least one other boater.  When paddling, two boats with two operators each, are recommended.  Three boats with two paddlers each are even better.  If unfamiliar with the waterway, paddle with someone knowledgeable. Stay in groups and don't spread out. Think of rivers like a highway, and the main channel is where motorboats are confined to operate. 
7. Never overload the boat.  Tie-down the gear and distribute weight evenly.  
   
8. Never overestimate your skill with the conditions. If you're new to paddling, start out on calm, flat water with minimal wind. Learn self-rescue and reboarding skills, and continually practice.  
   
9. Maintain a low center of gravity and three points of contact.  Keep your weight balanced over the center of the boat.
• Standing up or moving around in a small boat can cause it to capsize –a leading cause of fatalities among paddlers.
• Leaning a shoulder over the edge of the boat can also destabilize it enough to capsize.
10. Stay alert at all times and be aware of your surroundings, including nearby powerboats.  Be prepared to react when dangerous situations arise. 
11. Dress properly for the water temperature, not the air temperature and the type of boating. Remember, you're on the water, so expect to get wet and dress for immersion. 
    
12. Check your boat for leaks. 
    
13. Map a general route and timetable when embarking on a long trip.  Arrange for your vehicles to be shuttled to the takeout. 
14. Know the weather conditions before you head out.  While paddling, watch the weather and stay close to shore.  Head for shore if the waves or wind increase.
    
    
    

• Use reflective tape on your paddle blades.
  
• Keep your whistle handy.
  
• Any boat less than 20 meters should not impede the passage of a larger ship, whether under power or not.
  
• Monitor channels 13 & 16 on your VHF radio.
  
• At night and during restricted visibility, a white light must be shown toward on-coming traffic.