Best Practices to Stay Safe on a Deep Sea Fishing Charter

So, you finally booked your deep sea fishing charter in Oregon, and you’re feeling pumped! And who wouldn’t be? There are so many fish you can catch! Imagine the thrill of reeling in a monster and the stories you get to tell your loved ones when you arrive home?

But of course, there’s always the slight worry about things that may go wrong when you’re out in the deep blue waters. Of course, fishing charters are safe, and you have a professional captain and crew prioritizing your safety throughout the trip! But there are things that you can do to make it safer for you during the fishing charter.

Read on for the best practices to stay safe on a deep sea fishing charter.

Best Practices to Stay Safe on a Deep Sea Fishing Charter

Heading to the vast ocean to experience deep sea fishing is an adventure family and friends will enjoy together. While it’s a fun and exciting time, it’s crucial to follow safety precautions and prepare for the trip to ensure everything is smooth sailing.

Here are the tips to follow:

Listen to the Crew

You’ll most likely have a short safety orientation before heading to the boat, so make sure you listen to the instructions and obey them throughout. Also, always listen to the captain and crew, following their advice. All the safety precautions they say and do are set in place to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment.

Besides listening to the crew, it’s best to learn about the onboard safety equipment. The fishing charter must be equipped with standard boat safety equipment like life jackets, flares, first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and the like. Ensure you know how to use this equipment and where to find it to avoid delays during emergencies.

Obey the Fishing Restrictions

There are state rules and regulations no matter what waters you head to. Oregon has specific fishing regulations and restrictions you must follow to maintain proper fish populations.

Make sure that you’re aware of the catch and size limits, read up on the rules, and listen to the captain. If the crew says you need to release the fish, put it back into the waters. Don’t worry; there are many opportunities to catch more fish to keep.

Use Protection!

No, not THAT kind of protection! We’re talking about sun protection!

Even if it doesn’t look too sunny, you’ll be exposed to harmful UV rays throughout the day. Plus, the sun would reflect the waters, so you stand a higher risk of getting sunburnt without sunscreen.

Prepare sunscreen and lather yourself up at least 15 minutes before you depart land. The goal is to fry your catch after returning home, not to fry yourself!

Besides that, we also recommend bringing insect spray or lotion to use before the trip. You might get exposed to a lot of bugs while outdoors. To avoid that pesky bug bites, have insect repellant around.

Dress Properly

When you’re on a fishing charter, you’ll be exposed to the elements, whether it’s the sun, rain, or heavy winds. Besides preparing the typical sun protection mentioned above, make sure that you also wear layered clothing to prevent sunburn and heatstroke.

Furthermore, make sure you wear anti-glare sunglasses and a hat that can cover part of your face. As for shoes, do not wear flip-flops or open-toed sandals, even if it does feel more comfortable since you’ll get wet. Instead, wear shoes with enough traction as you’ll be walking around a slippery boat.

Avoid Alcohol

Sure, it would be fun to enjoy fishing over a few beers, but the Coast Guard highly recommends against it! Leave all alcoholic beverages off fishing boats, even if you aren’t responsible for maneuvering the boat.

As you know, alcohol can impair one’s thinking and movements, so intoxicated passengers are more likely to get injured when onboard. Worst case scenario, they can fall off the boat or cause accidents. It would be more challenging dealing with such accidents when on the open waters when land is miles away.

It’s crucial to stay hydrated when under the hot sun, but go for water and other non-alcoholic beverages. The beer and hard liquor can wait until you get back to land after cooking your catch!

Be Careful Handling Tackle

As you handle tackle, remember that these are sharp items. When using them, they can travel at high speeds. Before casting, look over your shoulder to ensure you aren’t hooking an object or person.

Also, do not leave your tackle or equipment on the ground, which is a tripping hazard. If you need to remove deeply-embedded fish hooks, use pliers and not your fingers to avoid injuries.

Do You Get Seasick Easily?

Anyone can get seasick, and it’s one of the most uncomfortable feelings that can ruin your day out in the waters. Prepare travel sickness tablets just in case you or someone else starts to feel queasy.

What to Eat

While skipping meals may help reduce the chance of vomiting, it’s not recommended. Never fish on an empty stomach and have a light meal before leaving. Also, prepare light meals and snacks such as sandwiches, energy bars, and water.

We can’t emphasize how much you need to stay hydrated, especially during hot days. Bring insulated bottles of cold water or coolers filled with ice water to refresh yourself throughout the day.

Wrapping It Up

While the captain and crew will remind you about some of these safety tips, it’s best to prepare ahead. That way, you can focus more on having fun waiting and reeling in huge catches in the deep waters. We hope our tips helped you out and relieved some of your pre-charter jitters!

You can learn more about Oregon and the fishing action in our blog or contact us to avail of charter services. We can provide the services you want and need to make your trip fun.

Best Times of Year to Visit Newport, Oregon

Newport, Oregon is one of the best vacation spots around because of its vast history, beautiful attractions, delicious food, and fun things to do! It’s extremely popular for its historical lighthouses, unconventional lighthouses, and fishing action. And with the many luxury beach resorts and hostels, there’s always something made for every traveler, whether you’re on a budget or going all out, solo or with your loved ones.

But when you’re planning your trip, you’re probably wondering: When are the best times of year to visit Newport, Oregon? Read on to find out!

The Best Times of Year to Visit Newport, Oregon

We base our recommendations on various factors, such as the weather, cost of flights and accommodation, the peak travel season, among others.

Budget-wise, the best times of year to visit Newport are from March to May. This is when the weather is warm enough, but the peak season hasn’t arrived. That way, you can take advantage of the fewer crowds and lower prices on flights and accommodation.

That said, if you’re after the best weather, then you’ll want to visit Newport from May to September, which is when the warmer months truly set in. Those who want to head to the beaches should head to the area during the peak summer season from July to September.

Even then, Newport experiences mild weather all year long, which is why you can continue enjoying your vacation regardless of the season. However, for those avoiding the cold, we recommend avoiding November to February, which is the winter season and considered some of the coldest months in the area.

Each traveler is different, and we understand that some may want to head to the area during warmer months while others love the cold. Or, you’ll want to make sure you head to Newport during certain festivals and events! Let’s break it down to the different months of the year.

January to March

The temperatures would go between the 50s to 60s, so this isn’t the best time to head to Newport, especially if you’re after the beach. The waters are too cold to swim in, and you can’t show off your beach bod!

However, we don’t want to stop you from visiting at this time because there’s so much the city can offer beyond beaches. You can visit the different attractions, such as art galleries, museums, nature trails, and more.

The best part is that you can avail cheaper accommodation rates and won’t need to wait in line when visiting different attractions. Not many people visit Newport at this time as their main focus is the beach, so they wait for the warmer months.

April to June

You will love spring in Newport, as so many different festivals abound! However, June is known as the June Gloom, sometimes bringing in overcast days. But you’ll still get to experience sunny weather and warmer times, which is why we consider it an excellent month to visit. Expect the temperatures to range between the high 60s to low 70s during these months.

Gray skies or not, there are so many things to do and spring events to attend, such as the Balboa Island Parade and Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race. Accommodation is still not at its peak, so it’s worth staying at these times too, to beat the high prices and crowds.

July to September

July to September are some of the best months to visit Newport, especially when you’re after the ultimate beach and fishing trip! Sunshine is around almost every day, and you’ll definitely get a tan by the beautiful waters.

However, it will be pretty crowded, so expect long lines and lots of people. You might have to make more effort in finding the perfect spot at the beach. Furthermore, expect the peak season to cause higher prices in flights and accommodation, so prepare to pay a little extra.

Note that the busiest month for tourism in the area is August, followed by June and July! So prices for flights and hotels are at their highest, but you can save a lot when you book in advance.

That said, it’s worth heading to, especially with the weather and many events to attend. The Newport Beach Film Festival happens in August, while you can enjoy music during the Newport Jazz Festival from July to August.

October to December

Newport doesn’t have snow or freezing weather, so you can continue enjoying the beach in the fall season. In October, the temperatures are usually within the 60s, but it drops to the mid-50s when December arrives.

While it’s a bit chilly to take a dip in the ocean, everyone will enjoy the many different holiday events! There are Halloween bar crawls, Christmas yacht parties, and so much more. Plus, you’ll love walking around the city adorned with colorful lights, setting the holiday spirit and lots of cheer.

Here are some of the festivals you can expect to happen during these months:

• Newport Beach Wine and Food Festival in October
• Sip n’ Shuck in November
• Lighting of the Bay in November
• Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade in December

Wrapping It Up

When considering the time you’ll visit Newport, Oregon, you have to take into account what you plan to do, where you’ll be staying, the weather, your budget, among other factors. We recommend traveling from March to May to get good weather without high prices. But if you want to visit for the best weather and experience fun festivals, we recommend visiting from June to September.

Hopefully, our article helped you with your plans for Newport! If you’re heading to the area, why not book a fishing charter as well? Contact us for your fishing needs, and let’s talk about how we can make your fishing trip a memorable one!

The Differences in Coho and King Salmon

There are so many different kinds of salmon, with the coho and king salmon being two of the more popular ones around Oregon. These are two very popular game fish we love to bring home because of their delicious meat. Furthermore, they are both anadromous fish coming from the salmon family.

They are similar fish, so what are the differences between coho and king salmon anyway? Read on as we talk about their differences and how you can tell these to fish apart next time you’re on a fishing trip!

What is Coho Salmon?

Coho salmon, also called silver salmon or silvers, are part of the pacific salmon family, known for their black tongues and white gums. Its scientific name is Oncorhynchus kisutch. These fish can take on a silver to red or wine color, depending on their gender and age. Overall, they have dark blue-green heads and backs.

Most coho salmon you’ll catch would weigh between 5-15 pounds, measuring between 17-24 inches long. Larger fish of this species can weigh over 30 pounds and reach up to 38 inches long.

In terms of flavor, silvers have a mild and firm flavor with a moderate to high-fat content. You can prepare silvers through baking, broiling, grilling, and smoking.

What is King Salmon?

On the other hand, we call king salmon a variety of names, such as the chinook, quinnat, spring salmon, tyee salmon, blackmouth, chum salmon, hookbill salmon, and black salmon. Its scientific name is Oncorhynchus tshawytscha and is Alaska’s state fish!

This type of salmon dons both black mouth and gums and measure up to 33-36 inches, with some king salmon reaching 58 inches. As the name suggests, the king salmon is the biggest salmon type, weighing between 10-50 pounds. Some king salmon can reach up to 130 pounds.

Similar to coho salmon, king salmon would change colors in different waters. When in freshwater, they have the similar silver sides the coho does. But once they head to the ocean, they have golden sides.

In terms of flavor, king salmon has the highest oil content, giving off a rich flavor and softer flesh. It also contains a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for our health! With its delicious flavor, you would usually prepare this salmon through baking, broiling, grilling, poaching, or sautéing.

The Differences in Coho and King Salmon

Now that you’re more familiar with what the coho and king salmon are, what makes them different? Here are the major points to consider:

Color and Texture

As you read, king salmon is far larger and heavier than coho, being the biggest salmon species. Besides distinguishing these fish by size, you can tell them apart from their color and texture.

Coho salmon would have bright red sides, bluish-green head, and back, along with a dark belly. As for the king salmon, they have silvery sides, a blueish green, red, or purple head and back, along with dark spots across their upper body and tail.  Furthermore, coho salmon would have white gums, compared to the black gums of king salmon.

When you cut into the flesh, coho salmon would have a lighter color than king salmon. In terms of texture when eaten, king salmon would have a “melt in the mouth” effect thanks to the high-fat content. When filleting king salmon and cooking it medium-rare, people would compare the fish center as custard.

Coho salmon is leaner but still firm, even when cooked. It would also have medium flakes like king salmon.

Where to Find Coho and King Salmon

You can easily find these two salmon species in the North Pacific Ocean. However, you can fish for coho salmon in other areas like North America (Canada) and Asia, particularly in Japan. The highest number of harvested coho are from Russia and the USA, with Alaskan troll fisheries referring to coho as their backbone.

As for the King salmon, you can also find it in North America, Asia, and even New Zealand. It’s considered a precious fish worldwide and is harvested at high rates annually. New Zealand is the world’s largest supplier and producer of this fish.

You can even find certain communities celebrating the first king salmon catch of the year, considering the species culturally important. Many tribes feature this salmon as the “First Salmon Ceremonies!”

Coho and King Salmon Nutrition

As you probably guessed, king salmon has a higher calorie and fat content than coho salmon, but with similar protein content.

However, they have similar levels of omega-3 fatty acids and other notable vitamins and minerals like vitamin B6, B5, potassium, magnesium, phosphorous, calcium, selenium, and the like. King salmon contains more vitamin B12 and folate but less selenium and potassium than coho salmon.

If you’re wondering which is healthier, we see that coho salmon is better here, as it has less fat and fewer unhealthy saturated fats. It still contains a similar amount of omega-3 fatty acids but fewer calories and cholesterol compared to King salmon. That said, we still believe both fish species are healthy, with the king salmon having various helpful nutrients!

Wrapping It Up

While the coho and king salmon have their similarities, they are definitely not one and the same fish. There’s no better type as it will depend on what specific salmon you want to catch and the type of meat you want to take home! If you want more fatty fish with a big taste, then the bigger king salmon is your best bet, while others may appreciate the lighter taste and less fat content of the smaller coho.

Hopefully, you learned more about the differences between coho and king salmon from our article! Continue learning more about fishing around Oregon and the other fish species you can target in the area. And hey, if you’re already planning to go on a fishing trip in the state, consider contacting us for fishing charter services and see what we have to offer to make your adventure a fun one.

Best Tourist Sites to Visit While Fishing in Newport, Oregon

Newport, Oregon has continued to attract visitors all around the world thanks to its fishing action, unique sights, and stunning coastal sceneries. Of course, you can expect a lot of lovely attractions and things to do to make your vacation in the area more worthwhile.

So, if you’re heading to Newport for the ultimate fishing trip, it’s also essential to take advantage of your vacation with a tour around the area’s many tourist attractions. Read on to know the best tourist sites to visit while fishing in Newport!

Best Tourist Sites to Visit While Fishing in Newport

Even after you’re done with your fishing trip, you won’t run out of things to do and places to visit in Newport. Make sure you and your family explore the area to learn about the exciting history and appreciate the sights Newport, Oregon offers.

Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area

Yaquina Head is the state’s tallest lighthouse, which towers about 93 feet above a basalt headland that used to be lava. The lighthouse has been around since 1873, where you can take guided tours to learn about the area and make your way up.

Besides learning about the lighthouse’s history, you can also go wildlife viewing at the top, where you can find migrating harbor seals and whales. You can even view tide pools and find sea stars and sea anemones!

After visiting the lighthouse, you can check the Interpretative Center, where you and the family can learn more about the landscape and lighthouse history from the exhibits.

Besides the Yaquina Head Lighthouse, you can also explore the Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site, a 32-acre park where you can find the restored Yaquina Bay Lighthouse from 1871! From here, you can go whale watching and experience free, self-guided tours.

Oregon Coast Aquarium

The Oregon Coast Aquarium is perfect for families, where everyone can learn more about marine life! We love the glass walkways as you explore the aquarium, which allows you to look up at the stingrays and sharks swimming overhead. You can also find sea otters, seals, and Pacific octopuses!

We recommend visiting during the daily feeding times and availing of the fun interactive experiences, like animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours.

You can find other fun attractions in the Oregon Coast Aquarium, such as the Sea Lion Kiss Encounters, Secret of Shipwrecks, or the Sleep in the Deep program, where you can spend a night in underwater tunnels. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can dive in the tanks with a professional guide to meet the underwater animals up close.

If you want to explore more, the Hatfield Marine Science Center is near the aquarium, boasting numerous tide pools and aquariums filled with marine creatures. Families can watch the octopus feedings, view aquatic research exhibits, and join different educational programs.

Newport Historic Bayfront

Newport Bayfront is located around Yaquina Bay and is protected from the Pacific rollers by its narrow harbor mouth. It’s the largest area landmark in Newport and a crucial connection to Oregon’s Pacific Coast Scenic Byway.

You can find commercial fishing fleets taking shelter on the waterfront. Visitors can also go here to explore the art galleries, shops, and seafood restaurants on Newport Bay Boulevard. You can also avail tours from the Marine Discovery Tours to enjoy the waters and spot wildlife like seals, gray whales, or sea lions.

Nye Beach

If you’re more of a beach person, Newport is also home to fantastic breaches like Nye Beach, which faces the Pacific Ocean. This historic area has been a popular vacation destination for years now. Catch the stunning sunset here and visit the cultural hubs, where you can feast in their famous restaurants, buy from local shops, and have fun under the sun!

You’ll also find the Newport Visual Arts Center and Newport Performing Arts Center nearby for creativity and entertainment. View the regional artworks and enjoy the community, music, and theater performances!

Victorian Burrows House Museum

The Victorian Burrows House Museum is one of the historic buildings owned and operated by the Lincoln County Historical Society. The other historic building is the Pacific Maritime Heritage Center near the museum. From the Burrows House, you can visit the Log Cabin Research Facility, where you can learn more about the region’s history through newspapers, maps, and pictures.

In the Burrows House, you get to visit the Victorian Mansion that dons period furniture and clothing. In the Pacific Maritime Heritage Center, you can learn so much about marine life and enjoy the views of the Bayfront.

Devil’s Punch Bowl State Natural Area

Devil’s Punch Bowl is one of the most popular attractions along Newport’s coast, located a bit past the Beverly Beach State Park. Once the surf starts pounding Oregon Coast, you’ll see the breathtaking rock formation come high tide, making a roaring sound. Look down into the rock’s cut to see the white waters swirling.

We recommend heading over here for a picnic to enjoy the view and to go whale watching. It’s a picturesque spot that you’ll want to post online!

Head over here after the Beverly Beach State Park, one of the more popular beaches in Oregon. With five miles of beach and a large campground, it’s made for families who want to experience outdoor life.

Wrapping It Up

There’s a reason why people flock to Newport, and it isn’t only because of the many fishing opportunities! Hopefully, our list of the best tourist sites to visit while fishing in Newport gave you an idea of where to go after you’ve caught the big one.

If you haven’t finished planning your Newport trip yet, make sure to squeeze in a trip with a fishing charter to complete your vacation. Contact us now to learn about our services and what fish you can catch with us, whether you’re alone or with the entire family!

Why Choose Newport for Your Next Fishing Charter

There are so many memories to be made in fishing charter services, just as many as the benefits you can reap from joining one. You get valuable lessons, fun companions, a professional captain, and a crew to guide you to your targeted fish safely… What’s more to love?

That’s why you’re probably wondering why everyone’s suggesting Newport, Oregon, for your next trip with a professional fishing charter. If you’re still questioning it, read on as we answer the question, “why choose Newport for your next fishing charter?”

Why Choose Newport for Your Next Fishing Charter

Newport is a top fishing destination, and we aren’t just saying that out of bias! When hiring fishing charters in the area, you can have a chance to get a ton of species and learn more about the fishing scene from professionals. Check out these other reasons why Newport should be the next destination for your fishing charter.

So Many Fish to Catch

If there’s one thing we love about Newport, it’s the abundance of fish you can catch. You can find halibut, salmon, Dungeness crabs, and bottom fish. Many people flock to Newport because it’s where they can catch “the big one!”

There’s a reason why thousands of tourists would head to Newport, Oregon, and it isn’t just for the fantastic tourist attractions. It’s the wonderful beaches and waters that are abundant with different fish species. That’s a lot of fishing opportunities you can’t find in other areas, with some fish giving you the adventure and fight of a lifetime.

And when you hire a reputable fishing charter, you have more assurance of catching the fish you want, especially if you hire private services. The knowledgeable captain and crew will know where to go, so you stand a higher chance of catching more prized fish.

Newport is an Amazing Destination

Many people also head to Newport because Newport is a fantastic destination with a lot to do. After your fishing charter, you can explore the area and learn more about its history, visit their aquariums, delve into nature with their recreation sites, or have fun on their white beaches.

Better yet, you can try out their many restaurants where they cook and serve the live catch of the day. Some restaurants can even cook your catch, turning it into a tasty meal for you and your group to enjoy with pride. Even beyond fishing, you won’t run out of things to do when in Newport.

There are So Many Fishing Charters

Because Newport, Oregon, is a fishing hotspot, you can find many fishing charters selling their services online or by the waters. You won’t run out of choices or feel hassled finding available charters for the day. However, we still recommend booking in advance, especially during the peak season when most fishing charters would be fully booked.

Furthermore, you must conduct research on the chosen fishing charters you plan to hire. Search for online reviews, their expertise, prices, and even ask around when you’re already in Newport. That way, you’ll have a smooth transaction and enjoy your charter the entire time.

More Safety and Guidance

Compared to going fishing on your own, joining a fishing charter is safer and more cost-effective.

Think about it- You won’t have to spend on renting a private boat or missing out on the action when staying on land. Plus, you won’t need to deal with the responsibilities of maneuvering and caring for the boat, along with finding the ideal waters to fish in. It’s too much to juggle when you’d rather want to spend all your time focused on catching fish.

Fishing charters have a professional captain and crew to take care of you. They are aware of how to maneuver and care for a boat and will take you to the best fishing spots with safety in mind. They even offer other benefits, from fishing gear to free refreshments!

Besides that, you most likely won’t need a fishing license as the captain’s fishing license is adequate. You won’t need to spend more time and money applying for a license.

Learn More About Fishing in Newport

You get professional fishing guides who either grew up in Newport or had been fishing and working in the area for years. So, you can bet your ass that they know many things about Newport, particularly the fishing scene.

If you have any questions about where to find fish and how to spot them in Newport, fishing guides, the professional crew, or the captain himself can answer your queries. They’ll share the best fishing spots to go in the area, the best times to fish, and what techniques will work best for particular fish species.

If you’re a total beginner, choosing Newport and hiring fishing charters are sensible decisions you’ll make. Not only will you get to catch a lot of fish, but you’ve got professionals who will provide the appropriate gear and teach you how to catch your targeted species successfully.

Even veteran anglers can learn a new thing or two from fishing charters, even exchanging tips with fellow anglers. If you’re a veteran angler new to Newport, they’ll make sure you won’t break regulations implemented by the ODFW that can lead to hefty fines or the revoking of fishing licenses.

Wrapping It Up

Newport is home to historical lighthouses, spectacular views, seal watching activities, breathtaking beaches, and most importantly, fishing opportunities you can’t miss. Since you can find many fishing charters by the shore, you won’t have trouble throughout your Newport fishing escapade, whether you’re a beginner or veteran angler, alone or with a group, with children, or friends!

Are you interested in heading to Newport now and hiring fishing charters? Don’t hesitate to contact us now, and we’ll let you know what services we can offer based on your needs!