(Update: added video, details, comments from the victim of the theft)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office has said seven cases of theft of fishing gear have been reported in the past two weeks and urges those hitting the high lakes to be careful not to not join the list of victims. .

KJ Risdal said Monday he was camping in Crane Prairie last Thursday when about $ 15,000 in fishing gear was stolen from the back of his truck.

Six fly rods, their accompanying reels and 15 fly boxes containing approximately 5,000 trout flies were among the items carried.

Risdal says that in the 17 years he has fished in central Oregon, none of his items have ever been stolen or damaged.

“I think maybe they saw us pull everything off my boat at the boat launch, because I left my boat in the water overnight. I got everything out of the boat, because it wasn’t nearby, and then we threw everything in here, ”Risdal said.

Risadal says he leaned his truck against the camper van he was staying in. His truck was about eight feet from the camper van when the items were taken.

The incidents of stolen equipment took place at Crane Prairie Reservoir and Gull Point Campground at Wickiup Reservoir.

“As long as people are camping and fishing and leaving their gear unattended, there are people who will benefit,” said Sheriff Sgt. Jayson Janes.

Risdal says he had sentimental attachments for many of the items that were taken.

“You know, I have memories with people who have passed away, my dad, are associated with a lot of these flies and the places we used to fish. So yeah, that part is what really hurts, the flies,” he said. said Risdal.

Risdal is offering a reward of $ 2,500 for the return of his items.

Janes also encourages the public to share any information about stolen items.

“If you know where this property can go or who may be responsible for taking it, please let us know, as we would like to return the property to those people,” Janes said.