Types of Fish to Catch On an Oregon Deep Sea Fishing Charter

by | Aug 31, 2020 | Blogs

Types of Fish to Catch On an Oregon Deep Sea Fishing Charter

Deep sea fishing is an exciting and rewarding experience that any fishing enthusiast is sure to enjoy. And Oregon is one of the best destinations for any deep sea fishing enthusiast! It has stunning waters and views, but you also find an incredible variety of fish deep in its waters. 

If you’re considering a trip to Oregon and want to know more about what kind of fish you’re likely to encounter, this is the best guide for you! From everything you need to know about deep sea fishing to all the fish you can catch, we don’t leave any stones unturned. 

Check out our other fishing in Oregon guides for more tips, tricks, and insider information on everything Oregon fishing!

Deep Sea Fishing in Oregon

Aside from its fantastic landscape, fun beaches, and must-see destinations, Oregon is well-known for its excellent fish in its pristine waters. But besides the fishing on Columbia River and off the Oregon coast, deep sea fishing is another popular activity. It’s a great way to experience a new kind of fishing if you’re looking for a new adventure. But what counts as deep sea fishing?

Deep sea fishing is any kind of fishing that is done far out into the waters, usually with a depth of at least 100 feet. The fish you can find at this kind of depth vary in species and availability throughout the seasons, but there’s always something to catch year-round. But if you want to get as much variety as possible, we suggest booking a trip for the fall. Besides the sheer excitement that comes with deep sea fishing, it is also a unique experience. Just a few decades ago, deep sea fishing was reserved for commercial fishing. So how lucky are we that we get to experience it today whenever we like?

Newport Oregon Fishing Charters

For half of the year, I live and fish directly out of Newport. Locally, I run charters under Newport Oregon Fishing Charters which is a subsidiary of Pastime Fishing Adventures out of the Newport South Bay Marina and occasionally from Depot Bay. I have a slip there and keep my boat down there for more than half of the year.

What Fish You Can Catch on a Deep Sea Fishing Trip

There is an incredible amount of fish in Oregon waters, and deep sea fishing is an excellent way to explore that. These are just some of the fish you can find on your trip:

Halibut

We consider halibut to be one of the most amazing catches you can make in Oregon. Not only are they a delight to eat, but they’re incredibly large and beautiful fish. That makes them an incredibly satisfying fish to catch. But to make this catch, you’ll have to be in waters at least 750 feet deep, where large fish like halibut thrive. 

Because these flatfish are found so far from the coast, you’ll need really good weather to allow your boat to go far into the ocean. Springtime is generally the best time of the year to catch halibut – the clear skies are perfect for this kind of deep sea fishing. Consider booking your fishing charter from March to May.

Lingcod

Though neither ling nor cod, the lingcod makes for the most reliable to catch while deep sea fishing in Oregon. That is because they are available throughout the year, and regulations from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife at the time of writing don’t include limits on when you can catch them. 

With their long bodies and distinctive mouths full of sharp teeth, lingcod is an excellent catch for sport and eating. Lingcod like living close to the bottom of the sea, and you can sometimes even find them 400 feet in the ocean. 

Rockfish

In Oregon, you can catch over 25 types of rockfish living in the water. They’re an incredibly interesting fish to catch, and deep sea fishing is the best way to catch them. If you want to try deep sea fishing during the winter months like November, December, and January, rockfish fishing is especially vibrant during these months. Just make sure you bring a licensed fishing guide with you to help you navigate the cold waters.

Albacore Tuna

Last, but certainly not least, on our list is the ever-popular Albacore Tuna. Though they don’t make for the easiest catch, anglers can agree that the hardship is definitely worth it. Not only are they delicious fish, but they also provide a lot of excitement as they fight hard when caught. And in Oregon, the 25-fish bag limit for Albacore Tuna is extremely irresistable to fishers around the country.

Fishing for Albacore Tuna is best in July and August, but there is still enough to catch in the months after. Just make sure you book a fishing charter early! Its immense popularity can make it hard to find a booking.

Why You Should Hire a Deep Sea Fishing Charter

If you’re deep sea fishing, you will need a licensed guide to ensure your safety and help you navigate the complex waters off the Oregon Coast. But if you want to make your trip even easier and more convenient, consider hiring a reputable fishing charter to take care of things for you. At Pastime Fishing Adventures, we provide your boat, equipment, bait, and guide, so you can focus on your fishing.

Book today to get a slot for our most popular months! We offer a variety of packages to suit any group.

deep sea fishing in oregon
oregon deep sea fishing

Everything About Walleye Fishing on the Columbia River

by | Aug 17, 2020 | Blogs

Everything About Walleye Fishing on the Columbia River

I love guiding walleye trips! They are plentiful in the Columbia River and some of the best-tasting fish in the world. I have been catching waleye on the Columia since I was just a small kid fishing with my Dad. I have close to 45 years fishing for these amazing fish and know all the best spots.

The Columbia River is believed to be the best walleye fishing spot in the Pacific Northwest. That means you’re sure to find excellent catches up and down this magnificent river. And the great thing about walleye fishing on the Columbia River is that you can catch them year-round! You can schedule a trip whenever you want and find some good catches in the waters. 

So, whether you’re fishing for fun or fishing to eat, this blog is for you. You’ll need to know all this crucial information that can help you make those catches. From where to go, how to do it, and how to spot the walleye – we’ve got it all for you! So keep reading to find out everything you need to know about Columbia River walleye fishing.

All About Walleye

The walleye is one of the most popular freshwater gaming fish, named after its distinctive eye position. Both eyes on a walleye point outward – as if staring at opposite walls, hence the name. These unique eyes give walleyes a characteristic shine in the dark, making it easier for anglers to spot and catch them. 

Walleyes are sometimes called pickerel or yellow pike, but they are the same species no matter what you call them. They can grow to be 30 inches in length and 20 lbs in weight. But there have been numerous records broken by walleyes found in the Columbia River.

Columbia River Walleye Fishing Tips

Because of a walleye’s distinct eyes, catching them takes a little bit of strategy. Walleye have excellent vision in low lights, and they often take advantage of this by hunting for prey only when conditions are darker. This is when their competitors will often lay low, so walleyes have the best position.

Anglers looking to catch walleye should know about their eyes so that they can plan their trips accordingly. Seasoned experts will usually look out for what they call “walleye chop,”, referring to winds of about 6 to 16 mph. In these conditions, the water is rougher and darker. These conditions suit walleye really well, so it becomes easier to catch them there. But even without walleye chop conditions, you can still find walleye in areas that are overcast, rough, or by fishing for them at dusk and dawn.

But if this all sounds too complicated for you, there are loads of options for hiring a Columbia River fishing charter to make the trip more manageable and convenient.

Walleye Fishing Regulations

Fishing for walleye is generally permitted on the Columbia River year-round. But the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife still has numerous regulations to protect both the fish and you, as well as the river itself. Typically, there is no bag limit for walleye, unlike other fish like salmon. However, it is important to check regularly with the ODFW to make sure your information is up to date.

You will also need to acquire a license in Oregon before you can start fishing on the Columbia River. You can check this page for more information on who needs a permit, how much it will be, and how to get it.

Because of the many regulations that surround walleye fishing on the Columbia River, many people prefer to hire a fishing charter service. These fishing charters take care of these things for them. Fishing charters are an excellent choice for beginners and experienced anglers alike because they make things much easier. But besides understanding regulations in the area, fishing charters have so many benefits!

Why You Should Hire a Fishing Charter

If this is your first time hearing about fishing charters, you might be wondering, “what is a fishing charter?” 

Fishing charters offer a more convenient fishing experience to groups and individuals. Though it typically differs from company to company, that generally includes providing a fishing boat, the equipment, bait, and a fishing charter guide. They usually also clean and pack your fish. Some even offer photography services, so you always remember your trip!

By providing these things, you are assured of a stress-free and convenient fishing trip. Say goodbye to worrying about hiring your own boat, finding all the right equipment and bait, and taking care of things on your own. Instead, you only have to do one step to get the fishing experience you want.

And because fishing charter services have specific packages for specific fish and locations, you can choose what you want to fish with a click of a button. For walleye fishing on the Columbia River, you will have an experienced guide with you to help you out along the way. From selecting the best spots to fish to choosing the right bait, your fishing guide will make catching walleye so easy!

So what are you waiting for? Pastime Fishing Adventures offers several packages for groups looking to experience fishing on the Columbia River. Book a fishing charter today to reserve your spot!

fishing walleye on the columbia river

Types of Fish to Catch On A Willamette River Fishing Charter

by | Aug 6, 2020 | Uncategorized

Types of Fish to Catch On A Willamette River Fishing Charter

While the Columbia River is often the most popular destination for fishing in Oregon, it’s not the only place to make great catches and see incredible views. If you want to fish somewhere smaller and more unique, then the Willamette River is an excellent destination for fishing without sacrificing the Columbia River’s species diversity.

If you’re planning a trip to the Willamette River in the near future, you might be curious about what you can catch there and how it differs from other rivers in the area. We’ve got you covered! This blog will talk about everything you need to know before fishing on the Willamette River – the fish to catch, how to find them, and tips and tricks to make your trip more convenient.

 

Fishing on the Willamette River

The Willamette River is one of the Columbia River’s major tributaries, and it accounts for around 15% of the latter’s flow. What does that mean for you as a fishing enthusiast? It means that you can typically find the same fish in the Willamette River that you can in the Columbia River, depending on the area of the river you’ll be visiting. 

Salmon, sturgeon, walleye, bass, and many other species can be found in the Willamette River. What you’ll find on your fishing trip will generally depend on the season and the location, which we talk about more in greater detail in the next section.

 

What Fish to Catch on the Willamette River

Salmon

Who doesn’t love catching salmon? This is especially true in Oregon, where salmon is a must-catch for many visitors. Not only are they beautiful fish, but they taste incredible, too. 

On the Willamette River, you can catch a variety of salmon like Coho salmon and Chinook salmon. Between June and July, and in September, salmon are easier to find, though how many you can catch and which ones you can keep generally depend on the regulations of that year. Make sure you check with your hired fishing charter to find out when you can catch salmon.

Trout

Willamette River is home to thousands of rainbow trout, one of the river’s native species. They are grown in reservoirs, but they can also be found all along the river’s length. Beyond Rainbow trout, you can also find Steelhead trout and other species. 

When fishing for trout, check with local fishing charters to find the best time of the year to visit. They can also help you choose which area you should target to get the best chances of catching trout and what gear and bait to bring.

Largemouth and Smallmouth bass

Largemouth bass can grow to be around 25 inches and are generally considered an excellent catch for the area, mainly because they are easier to catch than other fish. You can find them in the waters throughout the year, though you’ll probably face more difficulty in the winter and spring seasons when the water is colder.

On the other hand, the Smallmouth bass is not that much different from its Largemouth cousins. While typically smaller at around 22 inches, the Smallmouth bass is still a fantastic catch for the river. Just make sure you bring the right kind of lures as they can be tricky to catch.

Why Hire a Fishing Charter

If this is your first time fishing on the Willamette River or if you plan to fish with your family or a large group, we generally recommend that you hire a fishing charter. Why? Fishing charters are a uniquely convenient way to make your fishing trip more straightforward and more manageable. Instead of having to rent a boat separately, finding all the right equipment, and doing all the research yourself, fishing charters take care of everything. It means that you can focus on fishing and having fun. Still, Willamette fishing charters also ensure that you won’t accidentally break any fishing regulations set up by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. 

Beyond the practical things you can hire with a fishing charter, you also gain access to another important tool: a fishing guide. Fishing guides are an essential component of any fishing trip, especially if you’re not familiar with the Willamette River’s inner workings. Even if you spent time researching on Google for weeks straight, that can’t compare to the amount of knowledge fishing guides have on the area. That can help you when you’re stuck on how to catch a specific fish.

Book a Willamette Fishing Charter!

Ready to have the best time fishing on the Willamette River? Book with Pastime Fishing Adventures today. We have a number of packages to fit any group and budget, and you can trust us to deliver only the best service.

To make sure slots don’t fill out before you can book one, check out our booking page to inquire into your preferred dates today! We look forward to meeting you.

fishing on the willamette river
willamette river fishing charter

Everything You Need to Know About Sturgeon Fishing on the Columbia River

by | Jul 23, 2020 | Blogs

Everything You Need to Know About Sturgeon Fishing on the Columbia River

Sturgeon are some of the funnest fish in the world to catch. Their massive size make the fight such a crazy adventure. We’re lucky enough to have some of the best sturgeon fishing in the world in our back yard. I have been guiding sturgeon trips for more than 23 years.

It is no secret that the Columbia River is home to some of the most xciting fish. It is so famous among fishing enthusiasts that hundreds of people visit every month to make a catch. And one of the best fish to catch and such a fishing trip? The mighty sturgeon, of course! Sturgeon fish are a fundamental part of any fishing enthusiast wishlist. And if you want to add this fish to your catch history, you’ll need to know all about it. 

Luckily, that’s what we’re here for! In this blog, we break down all you need to know about fishing sturgeon in Newport on the Columbia River. And when you’re done, check out our official page for sturgeon fishing with Oregon fishing charters. It has great tips on making your trip easier!

Oregon Sturgeon Fishing Guide

Oregon Sturgeon Fishing

One of the oldest known fish in our fossil records, the Sturgeon, is a magnificent fish that looks even better up close. Their long bodies and bony armor-like scales make for a distinct and striking look that you can’t miss. In simpler words, you’ll know when you’ve caught a sturgeon. There is no mistaking them, especially when most grow to be 10 feet long. But, while they may seem intimidating, catching a sturgeon doesn’t have to be complicated if you know what you are doing. 

The Columbia River and its tributaries are home to the largest white sturgeon populations, so you won’t have difficulty finding them. But because Sturgeon are bottom-feeding fish, you will need to know what bait to use and how to get it that deep into the water. Luckily, most fishing charters that you can hire in Oregon will have fishing guides. These fishing guides can help you refine your technique to ensure you go home with a catch! All you’ll need to do is cast the line and wait for a Sturgeon’s bite.

 

Columbia River Fishing

As the largest river in the Northwest, the Columbia River is one of the most exciting rivers to visit in America. It’s approximately 1200 miles long, so you can just imagine the fish’s diversity in those waters. It’s breathtaking!

Luckily for you, fishing on the Columbia River is made more accessible by convenient Oregon fishing charters that make fishing trips more relaxed. For example, you won’t have to worry about hiring boats or buying the right equipment. Premium fishing charters like Pastime Fishing Adventures take care of all the things you’ll need to have a great time on the Columbia River. 

Fishing charters will also have all the information you’ll need on any existing sturgeon fishing regulations in Oregon as decided by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. They can also help you get the appropriate licenses and tags you might need. 

It is an especially great choice if you’re planning a group fishing trip or new to the Oregon fishing scene. Fishing charters make fishing convenient and relaxed. So all you have to do is have a good time.

 

What Else You Can Do In Newport

Newport, Oregon has so many attractions to offer beyond the fishing you can do along its shores and on the Columbia River. For example, if you want to eat the fish and not just catch them, Newport has some fantastic restaurants specializing in seafood. Restaurants like Local Ocean and Clearwater Restaurant give you a taste of the fantastic Newport waters that you can’t find anywhere else.

If you’re with your family or friends, you can also spend a day appreciating nature on one of our many nature trails that always lead to a fantastic view. Head to the Yaquina Bay State Park to see the iconic Yaquina Head Lighthouse or relax on the observation decks. And if you want to learn more about the state’s awe-inspiring wildlife and sea life, the Oregon Coast Aquarium is home to educational exhibits that suit both children and adults.

Newport has it all – beaches, parks, mountains, lakes, museums, and historical attractions. No matter who you’re with, there’s sure to be something for everyone.

But if you want to keep fishing (and who wouldn’t?), check out our dedicated fishing pages for other popular catches like salmon, lingcod, or halibut. Because of Newport fishing trips’ popularity, it’s best to book far in advance to make sure that we can accommodate your group and give you a day to remember on our boats. Start booking today!

Why Charter An Experienced Fishing Guide In Lincoln City, Oregon

by | May 31, 2020 | Uncategorized

Why Charter An Experienced Fishing Guide In Lincoln City, Oregon

Lincoln City is the home to the Devil’s Lake, the Coast Range, and the incredible views off the Oregon Coast. Not only is Lincoln City a popular tourist destination for its beauty, but it’s also a great place for fishing and whale watching. The waters off the Oregon Coast are full of different kinds of fish and there’s always something to catch throughout the year. 

So what’s the best way to go fishing in Lincoln City, Oregon? Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fisher, you can always benefit from an experienced fishing guide. In this blog, we break down all the benefits of hiring an experienced fishing guide, as well as information on hiring fishing charters.


Fishing Charters In Lincoln City, Oregon

If this is your first time hearing about fishing charters, knowing what they are is essential. A fishing charter’s services can vary, but they are essentially the same in that they offer a stress-free and better fishing experience. That typically includes providing a fishing boat, all the necessary fishing equipment, and the all-important fishing guide.

Fishing charters in Oregon can help fishing enthusiasts learn the best places to fish in Lincoln City. For groups or couples, fishing charters take care of all the technical details so that you can fish, have fun, and bond as a group.

If you plan on fishing in Lincoln City, check out our detailed page for hiring a fishing charter here. Our professional fishing charter services are easy to hire, affordable, and super convenient.

The Benefits of Hiring a Fishing Guide

When you set out on a fishing trip, you might not consider that you need a fishing guide. For example, if you’re an experienced fishing hobbyist, you might feel that you know more than enough and will not need a guide. While that might be true, fishing in a new place like the Oregon Coast can be a completely different thing. Different climate, different fish, and a different landscape are all things that a fishing guide can help you with. Strict guidelines from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife can also limit what you can do.


Catching Fish

There is a wide variety of fish in the waters off the Oregon Coast and in the rivers nearby. You can catch anything from salmon to largemouth bass. You can also go crabbing and watch whales from your boat.

A fishing guide will know what equipment and bait you will need for catching them. This is especially useful for people who are in Lincoln City to catch specific kinds of fish. For example, salmon is a popular fish to catch – so why not hire an expert who can help you catch one?

Finding the Best Spots

Different fish prefer different areas of the waters in Oregon. So if you were looking to catch a lingcod, for example, you would need to be fishing near quite rocky areas. But if you are a visitor to Lincoln City, knowing the best spots is impossible.

That’s where experienced fishing guides can come in and help you. A good fishing guide can help you find the best places for catching certain fish. They can do this while still leaving you in control of the boat so that it’s still your fishing trip.

Using the Right Equipment

Newbies to fishing might not realize it, but planning a fishing trip can take a lot of planning. Not only do you have to plan where to go, but what to bring is also as important. Luckily, fishing gear is pretty widely available. But if you do not know what you need, a fishing charter is incredibly beneficial. Fishing charters typically include equipment, bait, and lures into the package deal. Your guide can help you distinguish different pieces of equipment and advise you on the best things to use. Using the right equipment brings you halfway closer to the catch of the day!

 

Lincoln City, Oregon Attractions

Besides fishing, Lincoln City has a number of other incredible attractions that make it highly popular among tourists. From beautiful parks to beaches, there is something to do every day of the year. Want to experience a slice of the city’s natural beauty? Hike up Cascade Hill or visit the Devil’s Lake for a unique experience.

If you’re tired after a long day fishing, relax and unwind with some shopping at the Outlet Mall. The Chinook Winds Casino Resort also has a number of comedy shows and musical performances to keep you entertained in the evening. 

And if you’re hungry and want a bite, Lincoln City offers a wide variety of cuisines at different price points. Get some of the best and freshest seafood at the Barnacle Bills Seafood Market or experience authentic German food at Autobahn 101. 

The next time you’re in Lincoln City, don’t just limit yourself to fishing. The city has so much to offer to tourists of any size!