Get ready to drop some lines and pull up some monsters on this shared 5-hour charter out of Winchester Bay. We're talking serious deep-water action targeting those prized rockfish that lurk way down in the Pacific. This isn't your average fishing trip - it's a chance to test your skills, learn some new techniques, and hopefully walk away with a cooler full of tasty fillets. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your sea legs, our expert crew will make sure you're in on the action all day long.
Alright, let's break down this long leader business. We're fishing deep - like, really deep. We're talking 300 feet or more below the surface where those big boys hang out. The long leader setup is all about getting your bait down to where the fish are while keeping it away from the bottom. It takes some getting used to, but man, when you nail it, the payoff is sweet. You'll be using specialized gear with extra-long leaders (hence the name) and heavy weights to get down where the action is. It's a bit of an art form, but don't worry, our crew will show you the ropes.
Here's how your day's gonna shake out: We'll meet up early at the dock in Winchester Bay, load up the boat, and head out into the Pacific. The ride out can be a bit bumpy, so maybe skip that big breakfast. Once we hit our spot, it's go time. We'll get you set up with your gear and show you the basics of long leader fishing. Then it's just a matter of dropping your line and waiting for that telltale tug. When you hook one, be ready for a fight - these deep-water rockfish don't come up easy! We'll be out there for about 5 hours, which usually gives everyone plenty of time to hit their limit of 15 fish. By the time we head back to the dock, you'll be worn out, probably a little sunburned, but definitely grinning from ear to ear.
Let me tell you, once you get a taste of this deep-water action, you'll be hooked (pun absolutely intended). There's something about the challenge of fishing this deep that just gets under your skin. It's not like casting from the shore or trolling - this is a whole different ballgame. You're battling the elements, fighting against the current, and when you finally feel that hit on your line, it's like striking gold. Plus, the variety of fish you can catch out here is insane. One minute you're reeling in a bright orange canary rockfish, the next it's a hefty yellowtail. And let's not forget the views - on a clear day, the Oregon coast is something else. No wonder folks keep coming back year after year.
Alright, let's talk fish. On this trip, we're mainly targeting two rockstar species: yellowtail rockfish and canary rockfish. These aren't your average bottom-feeders - these are the cream of the crop when it comes to Pacific rockfish.
Yellowtail Rockfish: These guys are the golden boys of the deep. They're known for their bright yellow fins and olive-green bodies, and they can grow up to 26 inches long. Yellowtails are schooling fish, so when you find 'em, you find a lot of 'em. They're aggressive feeders, which means once you get them biting, the action can be non-stop. And let me tell you, they put up one hell of a fight on the way up. Best of all, they're fantastic eating - firm, white meat that's great for fish tacos or a classic fish fry.
Canary Rockfish: Don't let the name fool you - these fish are anything but dainty songbirds. Canaries are known for their bright orange-red color and can grow up to 24 inches. They're a bit more solitary than yellowtails, so landing one of these is always a treat. Canaries are slow-growing and long-lived fish, so catching a big one is like reeling in a piece of history. They're also delicious - slightly sweet flesh that's perfect for grilling or baking. Just remember, these guys were overfished for years, so we're careful about how many we take home.
Look, I could go on all day about the thrill of deep-sea fishing, the rush of reeling in a big one, or the taste of fresh-caught rockfish. But at some point, you've just gotta experience it for yourself. This Winchester Bay charter is the real deal - expert guides, top-notch gear, and some of the best fishing grounds on the Oregon coast. Whether you're looking to test your skills, fill your freezer, or just have an awesome day out on the water, this is the trip for you. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak season, so don't wait around. Grab your spot, pack your sunscreen, and get ready for a day of fishing you won't forget. Trust me, once you're out there feeling that first tug on your line, you'll be glad you did. So what are you waiting for? Let's go fishing!
Canary Rockfish are a real treat to catch around here. They're good-sized fish, typically 20-23 inches long, with striking orange and yellow markings. You'll find them hanging out in loose schools over rocky bottoms offshore. These fish like it deep, so we'll be dropping lines anywhere from 300 to 900 feet down. Canaries are slow-growing and can live up to 75 years, which makes them pretty special. They're eager biters and put up a solid fight, especially the bigger ones. Their meat is delicious too - firm and mild. Spring and early summer are usually the best times to target them. When we're out there, keep an eye on your line - Canaries often hit the bait on the drop. A little trick: if you're not getting bites, try reeling up slowly. Sometimes that triggers their predatory instinct and they'll chase it down.
Yellowtail Rockfish are a popular catch off Winchester Bay, usually running 11-13 inches but sometimes up to 25. They're schooling fish, so when you find 'em, you find a bunch. Look for them around boulders, rock walls, and reefs, anywhere from shallow water down to 1,800 feet deep. These guys are active during the day and tend to hang out near the bottom at night. What's cool about Yellowtails is they can handle pressure changes better than other rockfish, making them easier to release if needed. They put up a decent fight and their meat is mild and sweet - great for fish tacos. Best time to target them is summer through fall when they're most active. If you're having trouble getting bites, try switching up your bait or lure colors. These fish respond well to variety, so don't be afraid to experiment a bit.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 37
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 150