Summer fishing fun for kids (too) is close to home | OregonLive.com

With unseasonable rain behind us (we'll miss it before long), Rob Rickard of Canby nails a common question on the minds of moms (especially), dads and grandparents this time of year.

"My grandson asked me to take him fishing last week and I am at a loss to know where to go," Rickard wrote in an email. "He is only five, so I am not as concerned about what kind of fish we catch. It just needs to be closer rather than farther and offer an opportunity for him to catch a few."

Rickard, a fly fisherman, is savvy enough to realize his passion is "not a good way to start a 5-year-old."

Fortunately, there are lots of nearby alternatives in nearly every direction from the Portland metropolitan area.

Best advice? Start at a commercial trout pond.

Beginning anglers -- including adults -- aren't going to care what causes the wiggling at the other end of their rod. It's the excitement that hooks them, but while panfish (bluegill, crappie, etc.) are plentiful in lots of local waters, nothing is more concentrated than schooled trout in a pond owned by good-hearted folks who make a living off your visit.

Expect to pay between $5 and $7 a pound, with most fish running a third to half pound each. It's money well spent, with no license required and the only limits are the depth of your pocket. Trout farms typically supply the rod and reel, tackle and bait (but bring your own if you want) and offer cleaning facilities.

Pay attention to the lessons, which can then apply to panfish angling in public waters that abound in most Portland-area neighborhoods, Henry Hagg Lake near Forest Grove and St. Louis Ponds southwest of Woodburn, and extended summer trout fishing east of Estacada in North Fork Reservoir and Faraday Lake.

(The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife's website lists of state waters and has an interactive map giving locations and directions.)

There are numerous catch-cash-and-carry fishing operations across the state. The three largest near Portland all offer wheelchair and disability access.

West ? Horning's Fishing and Picnic Hideout, near North Plains (503-647-2920); good-sized lake where you may also practice flyfishing; Entry fee is $4; usually open daily unless a special event is planned.

East/northeast ? Rainbow Trout Farm, near Sandy off U.S. 26 (503-622-5223); open daily with 10 ponds on 30 acres, each holding specific-sized fish, pan-size up to several pounds (harder to catch); smaller fish range 50 cents to a few bucks each; barbecue facilities to cook your catch, but you must fish to cook your catch since it's not a picnicking venue.

South/southeast -- Indian Springs Trout Farm, off Springwater Road near McIver State Park (503 ?631-2318); open Wednesday through Sunday; has two ponds, one with 8- to 10-inch trout and the other with catfish, bluegill and crappie; they will clean the fish for you.

-- Bill Monroe

Source: http://www.oregonlive.com/sports/oregonian/bill_monroe/index.ssf/2013/06/trout_farms.html

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