Oregon’s Fishing Seasons: What You Can Catch Each Month

Oregon is a paradise for anglers, offering an abundance of fishing opportunities throughout the year. From serene lakes to roaring rivers and the vast Pacific Ocean, Oregon’s fishing seasons provide a chance to catch a wide variety of species. With different fish peaking at different times, planning your trip based on the season can maximize your success. This guide takes a closer look at what you can catch each month, along with tips and insights to make your fishing experience unforgettable.

January to March: Winter Fishing Highlights

While winter brings chilly weather, it also offers some of the most exciting fishing opportunities of the year. Oregon’s fishing seasons kick off with the winter steelhead runs, drawing anglers to rivers like the Rogue, Umpqua, and Sandy. Known for their power and size, steelhead provide an exhilarating challenge, especially for those who are patient and prepared. In lakes such as Tenmile and Siltcoos, yellow perch remain active even in the cold, making them an excellent target for ice fishing or traditional setups. Crappie also make for reliable winter catches, offering consistent action during slower fishing months.

Top Catches for Winter:

• Steelhead Trout: Winter steelhead are a signature species of Oregon’s fishing seasons. These fish, known for their fight and size, attract dedicated anglers to Oregon’s rivers during the colder months. Steelhead fishing requires persistence, but the reward is a prized catch that’s both thrilling to reel in and delicious to eat.
• Yellow Perch: These hardy fish stay active in cold water, making them a great choice for winter lake fishing. Yellow perch are perfect for anglers seeking consistent bites during slower seasons. Their mild flavor also makes them a favorite in the kitchen.
• Crappie: A panfish that thrives in lakes during winter, crappie provide a great opportunity for anglers looking to keep their skills sharp. They are best caught using small jigs or live bait, especially near submerged structures.

Winter Fishing Tips:

1. Bundle Up for Comfort: Winter fishing during Oregon’s fishing seasons requires proper clothing. Layer up with waterproof and insulated gear to stay warm and dry throughout the day.
2. Target Deep Waters: Fish often move to deeper areas during winter to find stable temperatures. Use heavier weights to reach these depths effectively.
3. Time Your Fishing Right: Early mornings and late afternoons tend to yield better results, as fish are more active during these periods of the day.

April to June: Spring Awakens Fishing Opportunities

Spring is a time of renewal, and Oregon’s fishing seasons reflect this change. As the weather warms, rivers like the Columbia and Willamette become bustling hubs for the highly anticipated spring Chinook salmon runs. These fish are prized not only for their flavor but also for their challenging fight. Meanwhile, lakes such as Diamond Lake and Timothy Lake come alive with stocked rainbow trout, making them popular destinations for families and anglers of all skill levels. Bass fishing also picks up in rivers and reservoirs as these fish become more active in warmer waters.

Top Catches for Spring:

• Spring Chinook Salmon: These fish are a crown jewel of Oregon’s fishing seasons. Known for their rich, buttery meat, spring Chinook salmon attract anglers from all over the state. Target them in rivers using baited setups like cured roe or plugs for the best chance of success.
• Rainbow Trout: Stocked throughout Oregon, rainbow trout are a staple of spring fishing. Their accessibility and willingness to bite make them ideal for beginners, while their fight offers plenty of excitement for seasoned anglers.
• Bass: Both largemouth and smallmouth bass are highly active in spring, providing thrilling action in waters like the Willamette River and Hells Canyon. Their aggressive feeding patterns make them a rewarding catch during this season.
• Walleye: Found in the Columbia River, walleye are a unique challenge for anglers seeking variety. These fish are known for their delicate flavor and can be caught using jigs or crankbaits.

Spring Fishing Tips:

1. Use Fresh and Bright Baits: Fish are highly active in spring and are attracted to bright and fresh baits that mimic their natural prey.
2. Check Stocking Schedules: Many Oregon lakes are stocked with trout during spring, so plan trips around these schedules for the best opportunities.
3. Explore Small Streams and Creeks: Lesser-known waters can be productive in spring, providing quieter and often more fruitful fishing experiences.

July to September: Summer’s Peak Fishing Season

Summer is when Oregon’s fishing seasons truly shine. The state’s coastal waters become hotspots for halibut, rockfish, and the exciting albacore tuna. Inland, high-elevation lakes provide excellent fishing for kokanee salmon, brook trout, and cutthroat trout. Rivers like the Columbia host continued runs of salmon and steelhead, offering prime opportunities for trophy catches.

Top Catches for Summer:

• Halibut: Coastal waters provide some of the best halibut fishing opportunities in Oregon’s fishing seasons. These large fish are sought after for their firm, white meat and are typically caught using baited rigs on deep-sea charters.
• Albacore Tuna: These fast, powerful fish offer an adrenaline-filled experience for anglers heading offshore. Albacore tuna are best caught using trolling methods or casting lures into schools.
• Brook Trout: Found in the high mountain lakes of Oregon, brook trout are known for their beautiful coloration and delicate taste. They are a favorite among fly fishers and spin anglers alike.
• Kokanee Salmon: A landlocked version of sockeye salmon, kokanee are found in lakes like Wallowa and Odell. These fish are challenging to catch but rewarding to eat.
• Surfperch: Coastal beaches offer consistent action for surfperch, which are easy to catch and delicious when fried.

Summer Fishing Tips:

1. Book Deep-Sea Charters Early: With summer being the busiest season, secure your spot on deep-sea fishing trips well in advance.
2. Beat the Heat: Fish early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler, as fish tend to move to deeper waters during the heat of the day.
3. Experiment with Gear: Summer fishing provides diverse opportunities, so bring a variety of lures and bait to match different species.

October to December: Fall Fishing Bonanza

Fall brings some of the most vibrant action of Oregon’s fishing seasons. Chinook and coho salmon return to rivers, creating exciting opportunities for anglers. Coastal crabbing also peaks during this time, making it an ideal season for both fishing and gathering shellfish.

Top Catches for Fall:

• Fall Chinook Salmon: Larger and more robust than their spring counterparts, fall Chinook salmon are a standout in Oregon’s fishing seasons. Target them in rivers like the Rogue and Tillamook Bay using spinners or bait setups.
• Coho Salmon: These fish are known for their acrobatics and bright coloring, making them a thrilling catch during their fall run.
• Dungeness Crab: Bays like Coos Bay and Netarts offer some of the best crabbing opportunities of the year, providing a delicious addition to any fall fishing trip.

Fall Fishing Tips:

1. Focus on Estuaries: Estuaries act as key gathering points for salmon before they move upriver, making them productive spots.
2. Combine Crabbing with Fishing: Maximize your trip by bringing crab pots along with your fishing gear.
3. Prepare for Variable Weather: Fall weather in Oregon can be unpredictable, so pack layers and rain gear for comfort and safety.

Oregon’s fishing seasons offer unmatched opportunities for anglers to explore the state’s waters and land some truly remarkable catches. Whether you’re fishing for steelhead in winter, targeting tuna in summer, or crabbing in the fall, each season offers something special. With proper planning, the right gear, and an appreciation for the natural beauty of Oregon, you can make every fishing trip an unforgettable adventure.