A Fisherman’s Ultimate Oregon Travel Guide

Oregon is a well-known fisherman’s paradise, with a ton of fishing opportunities whether you’re heading towards the freshwater or saltwater. If you’re a bit overwhelmed with the many things you must plan for your fishing tip, here’s an Oregon travel guide for fishermen to help you have the ultimate trip!

Oregon Travel Guide for Fishermen

Choose your fishing destination

One of the things that makes Oregon the best destination for anglers is the many fishing spots to choose from! Whether you want to head to the Columbia River and its tributaries or the many coastal rivers and streams in Oregon, there’s always something for everyone.

Here are a few recommended fishing spots to check out in Oregon:

• Columbia River: This is the largest river in the Pacific Northwest, offering some of the best salmon and steelhead fishing in Oregon. You can access Columbia River from various spots, such as Astoria, Hood River, and The Dalles.
• Deschutes River: This is a popular destination for fly fishermen, with excellent opportunities to catch rainbow trout, brown trout, and steelhead. Located in central Oregon, the stunning scenery and challenging fishing alone will make anyone want to go there.
• Rogue River: This is located in southern Oregon, known for its excellent salmon and steelhead fishing. You’ll find many guided and unguided fishing opportunities here, whether you’re a beginner or experienced angler.
• Umpqua River: This river is in southwestern Oregon, offering a ton of salmon and steelhead fishing action. You can even stand a chance to catch shad and smallmouth bass. Outside fishing, you’ll find various wildlife along the area, such as bald eagles and black bears.
• Crater Lake National Park: This is a gorgeous national park in southern Oregon with excellent trout fishing. Do note that the lake is open for fishing only during the summer months, but the wait will be worth is as you can catch rainbow trout and kokanee salmon.
• Diamond Lake: Diamond Lake is a high alpine lake in southern Oregon great for trout fishing. The lake is stocked regularly with rainbow trout, but you can also brown trout and kokanee salmon.

Get a fishing license

Before you even begin fishing in Oregon, you must avail a fishing license. It’s easy to avail a license, as you can purchase one online or in other physical locations around the state like gas stations and sporting goods stores. Here are some things you must know when getting an Oregon fishing license:

• There are various fishing licenses to avail in Oregon, such as the annual, one-day, two-day, three-day, or combination hunting and fishing licenses. If you plan on fishing in Oregon frequently, we recommend getting the annual fishing license.
• Oregon offers resident and non-resident fishing licenses. Resident licenses are made for those who lived in the state for at least six months before applying for a fishing license.
• You can purchase fishing licenses online from the official website of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Alternatively, you can purchase it in person in various locations throughout Oregon, such as sporting good stores, bait and tackle shops, as well as some gas stations.
• Fishing licenses have differing costs, depending on the license type you’ll get. Annual licenses for residents start at $44 each, while non-residents will have to pay upwards of $110 for the same type of license.
• Besides availing a fishing license, there are certain types of fishing that require additional permits, such as a Shellfish license or Columbia River Basin endorsement or a Shellfish license. Check the state’s fishing regulations you’re your target species and where you plan to fish, so you can prepare to purchase additional permits as needed.

Hire a fishing guide

It’s always worth hiring a professional fishing guide, especially if you’re a beginner angler, new to fishing in Oregon, or an experienced anglers who wants to learn more about catching fish. You’ll be happy to know that the state has a ton of experienced fishing guides who can show you the best fishing spots and share valuable tips and techniques to improve your skills.

Besides that, you may want to consider booking a fishing charter with a professional captain. They can plan out the entire trip for you depending on your expectations and the fish you want to catch.

Moreover, they have the vessel, fishing gear, and more things included in the package, so you won’t have to worry about anything but being on time! With an experienced captain and crew, you can learn a lot about Oregon’s fishing spots and how to catch certain fish species, whether you’re a beginner or experienced angler.

Know the fishing regulations

Just like different states, Oregon has specific fishing regulations made for every species and fishing spot. You must ensure you know the regulations before you begin fishing, as there will be penalties if you violate even just one rule! Here are some of the basica you’ll need to know:

• Bag and Size Limits: Bag and size limits vary depending on the species of fish and location. Bag limits refer to the number of fish that you’re allowed to catch and keep per day, while size limits refer to the minimum dimensions of fish you are allowed to keep.
• Catch and Release: Catch and release is encouraged for specific species, like steelhead and wild trout. Other times, it’s mandatory. If you catch a fish that you’re not planning to keep, make sure to release it carefully and quickly to minimize bringing harm to the fish.
• Fly-Fishing Only: Some locations in Oregon are designated as fly-fishing only, so you will only be allowed to use artificial flies and lures. Check the rules and regulations for your target fishing spot to determine if fly-fishing only rules apply.
• Gear Restrictions: Certain types of fishing gear, such as nets, traps, and spears, are prohibited for fishing in Oregon. Check to see if your fishing spot has any gear restrictions before heading to the area.

Wrapping It Up

With these tips in mind, you’re ready to plan your fishing trip to Oregon. Enjoy the beautiful scenery, abundant wildlife, and fantastic fishing opportunities that this state has to offer!

If you’re looking for a fishing charter for an all-inclusive fishing day trip, contact us now! We can connect you with reputable charter captains who can take care of everything you need for your next fishing trip in Oregon.

Maintain Your Fishing Gear Properly with These Tips

If you have been fishing for quite some time now, you probably already know about the importance of maintaining your gear. Remember, your rod and reel are your crucial fishing tools, and if you neglect to care for them, you’ll have to spend even more time and money repairing or replacing your gear. You also wouldn’t want to risk losing the big one because your gear stopped working from poor maintenance!

That said, how can you go about maintaining and caring for your fishing gear? Learn how to maintain your fishing gear here!

How to Maintain Your Fishing Gear

Keeping your fishing gear in great shape is crucial to ensuring a good fishing experience. Moreover, it will save you money from repairs or purchasing new gear due to a broken rod and reel. Here are excellent tips to maintain your fishing gear properly to avoid costly consequences:

Inspect the Gear Regularly

Have you ever forgotten about your gear after a full day of fishing? Or maybe rushed packing your gear right before a trip out of excitement? Don’t worry, you aren’t alone and we understand!

However, it’s always important to check your gear before and after a trip to save yourself any hassle and costly issues in the long run.

Think of your tackle, a crucial component when it comes to your fishing experience.  Your tackle will be exposed the entire time you’re out fishing. Rocks, bites, and other things can harm it, which is why you must check your tackle after a trip and make the necessary repairs before heading out again. For instance, if you see any grime on your tackle, white spirit can help remove it.

Also, check other parts of your fishing gear. Maybe your lure is veering off to another side, indicating the possibility of it being bent. The remedy is simple – You can either use pliers to put it back into shape or have it repaired in your local tackle store.

Clean and Dry Your Gear

Besides forgetting to inspect our gear, some of us sometimes forget to clean our gear after a day out fishing. Cleaning is paramount to maintaining your gear, which is why it’s important to remember to do so! In fact, some anglers would bring mineral water with them not just to hydrate, but to clean their gear.

That’s right, you shouldn’t clean your gear from the saltwater you just fished from, you need to wash it with clean fresh water. You can wipe down your rod and reel with fresh water, but make sure that you focus more on the hooks, lures, and jigs. We recommend using oil or soap to clean these parts, along with a toothbrush to scrub them clean.

If you notice your jigs aren’t as loose compared to before, lubricate them with a bit of oil. Besides your jigs, you may need to lubricate other parts of your gear as well, such as your reel. We know that the smell of oil can put off fish, so we recommend using scented lures to offset any of the oil.

No time to clean? You can place your lures in the dishwasher to rinse quickly, just make sure you take them out after the cycle is complete.

Once you’re done cleaning your gear, make sure you dry it! Don’t just leave it to dry on its own, as the water left on the gear can cause rust on the metal, which is very damaging to your gear. To avoid rust from ruining your fear, always dry it after use and cleaning with a clean cloth or paper towel.

How to Store Your Gear

Taking care of your fishing gear doesn’t stop after you clean and dry it. You must also ensure that you store your fishing gear properly as well, especially at the end of the season when you’ll be hiding it for a long period.

Protect your gear from rust by storing it in a warm area, as this removes the risk of exposure to dampness and condensation. We suggest storing it in your bedroom closet or in any other spots that are less susceptible to experiencing significant temperature changes. This means avoiding basements, garages, or other areas close to the exterior walls unless they are well-insulated.

When storing your reel, make sure you keep it in a special place and position. Lay them down flat rather than have them stand against the wall to avoid bending or setting.

Loosen and Clean the Reels

While this tip might seem unnecessary because your reels aren’t as exposed to the elements, it’s still important to loosen and clean your reels.

Loosen the drag off your reels after the end of your fishing day to avoid unnecessary tension. You should also loosen your reels before storing them at the end of the season. Do the same with your jigs and lures, keeping them clean with clean water (dry them as well).

When cleaning your reels, you’ll notice that they have a lot of nooks and crannies that can’t be easily reached with a cloth or paper towel. Rather than just leaving the water there to dry itself, we suggest a hairdryer to dry those difficult-to-reach areas. Then before you pack them until the next fishing season, add extra TLC by putting a bit of specialized oil to your gear. This will allow your lines to pass through your reels as smoothly as possible.

Wrapping It Up

It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner angler or a professional fishing charter captain – You must take adequate steps to maintain your fishing gear! Fortunately, fishing gear maintenance isn’t as difficult as you might have assumed.

Hopefully, our tips on how to maintain your fishing gear helped you out. Keep these tips in mind and make sure you begin caring for your fishing gear properly if you haven’t. If you’re also planning your next fishing trip in Oregon, contact us now to book a charter

Why Choose Oregon as Your Next Fishing Destination

So, you probably already know that Oregon is the place to be when you want to relax, unwind, and of course, go fishing! It’s one of the ultimate destinations beckoning anglers to cast a line in their pristine waters.

But you’re probably still wondering why it’s worth choosing Oregon as your next fishing destination. You’re in the right place, as we share why the benefits of fishing in Oregon and how you can get started.

Why Choose Oregon as Your Next Fishing Destination

Fishing is more than just a pastime in Oregon. It’s a way of life for many. Many locals take their fishing seriously, and you can find thousands of anglers of any background or skill level traveling here for one-of-a-kind world-class fishing. You’ve got the bay, ocean, and over 30 freshwater lakes and rivers in the state, making Oregon a prime destination for any fishing adventure.

And those are just a few reasons why you should choose Oregon as your next fishing destination! Take a look at some of the other reasons why it’s worth heading to the state:

Many Fish to Target

As mentioned, there’s an adventure made for everyone. Customize your fishing adventure however way you want it in Oregon, whether you want it inshore, nearshore, or offshore. Here are some of the fishing adventures you’d want to choose from the next time you’re in Oregon, based on popular species to catch:

• Salmon fishing – Pacific salmon fishing happens between April to November, with sports seasons regulated for coho and chinook salmon.
• Halibut fishing – Pacific halibut isn’t a bottom-fish species but is managed with its allocation and regulations. It’s a spring and early summer fishery.
• Albacore tuna – Albacore tuna is a must-target among anglers, and it’s great to do when 20-30 miles offshore from July to September.
• Bottomfish – Bottomfish species are popular all year long, depending on the weather. Just make sure you’re aware of the catch limits for different species.
• Rainbow trout – This species is stocked into the lakes, which are open all year long. We recommend heading to Bradley Lake, Bluebill Lake, Eel Lake, Empire Lakes, Sru Lane, Saunders Lake, and Tenmile Lakes, just to name a few.
• Crabbing – You won’t only get to catch fish, but a ton of crabs as well. You can go crabbing all year long around the docks, where you can buy or rent equipment.
• Clamming – You can also go clamming in Coos Bay, which is the ultimate destination to catch quality clams for yummy dishes.

Many Fishing Adventures to Choose From

You’ll always enjoy an Oregon fishing trip with the vast options of how you want the day to look. Here are the different kinds of fishing you can do around the state:

Kayak Fishing

This is an awesome way you can catch fish while getting a workout. You can get unsurpassed views of Oregon’s natural habitats and sceneries you can only find deep in the rivers, lakes, and open water along the Pacific coastline. It’s also an easy and simple sport, which beginners and seasoned anglers can try.

In Oregon, you can rent a kayak and fishing equipment. We recommend heading over to Sunset Bay State Park for an excellent time catching cabezon, halibut, and lingcod.

Surf Fishing

If you want to cast a line from the shore, you can do so in many places from Oregon, such as:

• Horsfall Beach
• Bastendorff Beach
• Cape Arago State Park

Expect to catch striped bass and surf perch here!

Charter Boat Fishing

Oregon is filled with fishing charter companies, so fishermen of all levels can venture nearshore or offshore to get a chance to reel in the many fish species we mentioned above.

Charter captains can plan your day according to how long you want it and your target species. Plus, almost everything is included in the chartered trip, including the boat, fishing equipment, and skilled captain and crew!

It’s Fun for Any Traveler

What makes Oregon amazing is that it isn’t only for avid anglers, but for any type of traveler. Even if you aren’t primarily focused on fishing, there will be so many activities to do and things to see in Oregon that you will never get bored. The vast beauty and culture of Oregon alone make it worth going to, from the many state parks to delicious food.

Are you with your family with kids and seniors in tow? Besides fishing, there are fun theme parks and delicious food to take them to so they’ll never get bored. If you’re traveling alone and want to squeeze in a vacation filled with travel goals between your fishing trips, take a road trip and explore what Oregon’s natural beauty and tourist attractions have to offer.

Moreover, Oregon’s fishing action is meant for all types of fishing levels. If you’re a complete newbie with no knowledge of fishing, then you’ll be able to find a spot and fishing guide ready to teach you. Are you a seasoned angler who loves going out to the deep? You can join a fishing charter for the ultimate adventure! Either way, Oregon has the waters and species for anyone to catch. Everyone has a chance of reeling in a catch almost any time of the year.

Wrapping It Up

Are you now convinced that Oregon is an amazing destination to start your angling journey? Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned angler, going solo or with family and friends, you’ll surely enjoy the beauty of Oregon and its vast fishing opportunities.

So, what are you waiting for? If you chose Oregon as your next fishing destination, head over to the state for a taste of the action now. If you would like to join or book a fishing charter for an all-inclusive trip, contact us now! We’ll connect you with our network of reputable charter captains.

How to Introduce Fishing to Your Kids

One of our many favorite things about fishing is that there is no age restriction. Regardless of how young or old you are, you can always enjoy a full day casting your line and reeling in a catch. If you’re an avid angler, you may have gotten addicted to the sport and want to share it with your loved ones too, namely your kiddos.

If it’s your dream to spend weekends by the waters with your kids, then it’s time to introduce the amazing world of fishing to them. Not only will you get to teach them life skills, but you can also build a fantastic bond and memories you’ll both cherish for years.

Of course, you need to know how to introduce fishing to your kids so they’ll enjoy the day enough to do it again. We share helpful tips below!

How to Introduce Fishing to Your Kids

Teaching new skills to your kids can be a bit nerve-wracking. After all, some kids may not find sports like these their cup of tea. But when you have the right teaching methods and consider any differences in their equipment and technique requirements, you can encourage your child to learn and have a fun time in the waters.

Here are some effective ways how to introduce fishing to your kids:

Start Early and Slowly

One of the biggest mistakes a parent can make is rushing their child into fishing by overexposing them and doing too much. Think about it – Can your young child sit in a boat and fish for an entire day like your fishing buddy? We didn’t think so either.

Training young future anglers is a process, and it will take a lot of time, effort, and patience on your side. You can begin the learning process by first taking a nature walk to your local river or lake. You can also walk along the shoreline and spot some fish that can pique their curiosity.

Now, on the actual fishing trip, opt for a short trip. You don’t want to book a charter for a full-day excursion. Start with maybe an hour of fishing inshore, maybe even less, depending on your kid’s mood at that time. Moreover, schedule a fishing trip during ideal weather, and choose a good location beforehand where you and your kid are almost certain to catch fish.

You don’t need to target huge largemouth bass or catfish. Any species is okay as long as your kid is getting frequent bites, which can maintain their attention.

Call it a day even before your child starts losing interest. That way, they’re left excited for the next trip. However, continue the learning process by reading children’s fishing books or introducing them to your fishing gear. You may also want to help them practice casting or reeling in the backyard. But still, keep these practice sessions brief.

Bring Snacks and Take Breaks

As you continue taking fishing trips, try slowly increasing the duration but with frequent breaks. For example, fish for about half an hour then take a break, repeating that cycle until it’s time to end the trip. Make sure that the breaks are filled with yummy and healthy snacks like granola bars, cheese sticks, and crackers. Also, bring a lot of water and juice to stay energized and hydrated.

While you’re taking snack breaks, you can have your child continue learning. If you’re on a boat with a live well, let them watch the fish swim. Or, you can have them touch and learn about the bait and be aware of their surroundings. All these involve stimulating your child’s senses, which keeps them interested.

Be Patient

As mentioned, it takes time, effort, and patience to introduce fishing to your kids. The same goes for any sport or activity, really. And remember, you’re teaching a kid, so there will be a few minor accidents or mistakes like backlashes, snags, or tangles.

Don’t fret, as this is all part of the learning process. We were all beginners at one point! Rather than showing your frustration, let your child know that it’s okay to make mistakes and is part of learning. Then, you can teach them how to improve so they avoid making the same mistake.

If you end up angry or looking disappointed, your child may end up feeling discouraged or pressured to do better. You must prepare for the fact that you won’t be spending much of your time fishing but doing other related activities, such as baiting hooks, taking off fish, and dealing with a few issues or mistakes as your child learns to fish.

For those who manage to fish and hook a fish, try to let your child reel it in. If they don’t want to, encourage them to try netting the fish. This allows your child to let in on the fun and excitement while feeling proud about their catch.

If the fish becomes unbuttoned, that’s alright. Don’t be frustrated and explain to your child what happened. But when you do catch a fish, celebrate with hugs and high fives, taking a ton of photos to commemorate the achievement.

Wrapping It Up

Fish will bite no matter how small or big, young or old you are. Even toddlers as young as two years old can start learning how to fish! But remember, there is a right and wrong way to introduce fishing to kids. As long as you follow effective tips and techniques, you and your family will learn to love the sport.

If you plan on booking a fishing charter, call us now and we can connect you with our network of reputable charter captains. That way, you’ll have the entire trip prepared for you and your family so you can focus more on teaching and spending time with your kids. The charter captain and crew can also provide the appropriate equipment and pass their fishing knowledge down to your family!

A Guide to Deep Sea Fishing in Oregon

Almost every angler knows that the Oregon Coast offers some of the most beautiful sights and attractions along the West Coast. From fantastic beaches to a vast history, every city in the state offers something amazing for everyone. And let’s not forget the many fishing opportunities, especially when deep sea fishing in Oregon. 

Some anglers question the worthiness of heading to Oregon for some fishing action. The short answer is – The trip to the Beaver State is definitely worth your time and money!

But before preparing to go deep. sea fishing in Oregon, take a look at our quick guide.

A Guide to Deep Sea Fishing in Oregon

Many of us are aware of the amazing experiences when deep sea fishing in Oregon. But before you book a charter and jump at the chance to travel, take a look at what you must know first:

What to Catch When Deep Sea Fishing in Oregon

The great thing about the state’s Pacific Coast is that you will always know what you’re looking for and how high your chances are. As you take more trips to Oregon’s fine waters, you’ll soon have your favorite targeted species, too. Take a look at the four most popular species you can expect to reel in:

Rockfish

Did you know that there are almost 30 different species of Rockfish in Oregon’s waters? It may be tough to tell them apart, but you can learn from a charter captain and crew. Expect to catch species like Canary, Widow, or Yellowtail Rockfish.

Lingcod

Many anglers tend to overlook the Lingcod, but they are a fun catch, especially come wintertime. You can catch them all year long without many restrictions, some of them going over 350 feet deep.

Halibut

Halibut is one of the most delicious fish in the country, making them a popular catch! But because of that, they have strict fishing regulations to ensure a healthy fishery. If you plan to catch one, you’ll have to target them in waters over 800 feet deep.

Albacore Tuna

While the state’s tuna fishing is on the shorter end, you can still expect a ton of fun once the species are close enough for you to target (about 20-50 miles offshore). You can head to the southern part of Oregon to get the best access to tuna, particularly Albacore tuna, coming in big schools!

Where to Go Deep Sea Fishing in Oregon

Another great thing about deep sea fishing in Oregon is the abundance of places you can fish in! Just choose a place on the coastline and you’ll find a charter captain starting their trips from there. We recommend heading towards the northern or southern edges for the coastline, where the best fisheries are at.

These are the top three places to head to when deep sea fishing in Oregon:

Astoria

This is one of the most popular fisheries in the state for many amazing reasons. You get easier access to the Columbia River and the Pacific, with a ton of variety when it comes to fish and anglers. It’s a default fishing spot for many anglers who want to explore the fun of Oregon fishing.

Coos Bay

Coos Bay is known as Oregon’s tuna central, located on the far south of the Oregon Coast. Once Albacore tuna season begins, you’ll want to be here. You’ll also get a lot of halibut, lingcod, and crabs, though it’s Albacore tuna that makes Coos Bay so popular.

Newport

Newport is located in the center of the Oregon Coast, with amazing fishing opportunities all year long. It’s a must for those who are targeting lingcod, though you can also catch halibut, rockfish, and many more species.

Popular Deep Sea Fishing Techniques

Local anglers stick with techniques that are proven effective, so you can expect to use classic techniques like trolling and bottom fishing.

Trolling or Live Baiting

Once the fishing season starts in mid-July, we recommend trolling using tuna jigs and diving plugs. Come to the end of August, you’ll want to switch things up, as traditional trolling with jigs won’t be as effective. As such, anglers will start fishing live bait.

If you’re targeting Albacore tuna or chum bait and you’ll witness the chaos that follows in a school of tuna. It’s quite a sight!

Bottom Fishing

Targeting large Lingcod? You’ll need to head over to the deep! Remember, the deeper the water, the bigger the fish. For Lingcod, expect the big ones to be about 400 feet deep, while halibut can go twice as deep.

If you plan to go bottom fishing at great depths, make sure you prepare heavy-duty tackle and gear.

When to Go Deep Sea Fishing in Oregon

For those wondering when to go deep sea fishing in Oregon, it will depend on your target species.

For instance, Albacore tuna has the tightest schedule, showing up from the end of July until October. Halibut season is open from May to October, while you can reel in Lingcod all year long! 

That’s why it’s important to make sure you are aware of the fishing restrictions of Oregon and stay updated with open seasons and catch limits. Moreover, you must purchase a fishing license to legally fish in the state.

But either way, you can expect a lot of fishing action all year long. To get the best of what offshore fishing in Oregon has to offer, you’ll want to schedule your trip in the fall. If you plan to book a charter, make sure you do so in advance to avoid being left without a slot!

Wrapping It Up

We hope this quick guide on deep sea fishing in Oregon helped you out! Now that you know more about what to expect in Oregon, the next step is preparing for your trip. 

If you haven’t booked a fishing charter yet, now’s the time to do so. Contact us now!