Premium Offshore Fishing & Crabbing in Winchester Bay

Winchester Bay's Ultimate Fishing Adventure

Get ready for a full day of non-stop action on the water with our 7-hour charter combo trip out of Winchester Bay. We're talking salmon, rockfish, and crab - the trifecta of Pacific Northwest fishing. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip's got something for everyone. Our local captains know these waters like the back of their hand and they're itching to put you on the fish. So grab your gear and let's hit the bay!

What to Expect on the Water

We'll kick things off bright and early, heading out as the sun's just starting to peek over the horizon. The first part of our day is all about chasing those hard-fighting salmon. We'll be trolling the productive waters off Winchester Bay, using tried-and-true techniques to entice those silver bullets. Once we've got our salmon fix, we'll switch gears and drop lines for some bottom-fishing action. Rockfish are the name of the game here, and trust me, your arms will get a workout hauling these guys up. To cap it all off, we'll pull some crab pots we set earlier. There's nothing like the satisfaction of hauling up a pot full of meaty Dungeness crab. By the time we head back to the dock, you'll have a cooler full of fresh seafood and a day's worth of stories to tell.

Techniques & Gear Breakdown

For salmon, we'll be using a mix of downriggers and divers to get our lines down where the fish are holding. We typically run a spread of cut-plug herring, hoochies, and maybe a few flashers to really get their attention. When it comes to rockfish, we keep it simple with double-hook rigs baited with squid or chunks of herring. The key here is getting your bait down to the structure where these bottom-dwellers hang out. For our crabbing, we'll be using circular pots baited with fish carcasses or chicken - those crabs can't resist a free meal. Don't worry if you're new to all this - our guides will walk you through every step, from setting the hook to pulling pots. We provide all the gear you need, top-of-the-line stuff that's well-maintained and ready for action.

Top Catches This Season

Winchester Bay has been on fire lately. Anglers have been limiting out on rockfish most days, with some real bruisers in the mix. We're talking lingcod pushing 30 pounds and black rockfish that'll make your reel sing. The salmon fishing has been hit or miss, as it often is, but when it's on, it's ON. We've seen some beautiful chrome-bright Coho in the 8-12 pound range, with a few pushing 15. And let's not forget about the crabbing - pots have been coming up stuffed full of big, meaty Dungeness. It's shaping up to be one of the best seasons we've had in years.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Yellowtail Rockfish are the bread and butter of our bottom fishing. These aggressive little fighters are a blast to catch and even better to eat. They typically run 1-3 pounds, but we occasionally hook into some 4-5 pounders that'll really test your gear. Yellowtails hang out in schools around rocky structures and reefs, so when you find 'em, it's often non-stop action. They're known for their beautiful golden color and those distinctive yellow fins that give them their name. The meat is mild and flaky, perfect for fish tacos or a simple pan fry with lemon and butter.

Coho Salmon, also known as Silver Salmon, are the sprinters of the salmon world. These chrome-bright torpedoes are known for their acrobatic fights and blistering runs. In Winchester Bay, we typically see Cohos in the 6-12 pound range, though larger specimens pushing 15-18 pounds aren't unheard of. They're fall runners, with the peak season usually hitting in September and October. Cohos are aggressive feeders, often hitting lures with explosive strikes that'll have your heart racing. Their flesh is a beautiful orange-red color, with a rich flavor that's perfect for grilling or smoking. There's nothing quite like the rush of a Coho peeling line off your reel as it makes a run for the horizon.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Folks come back to Winchester Bay year after year for good reason. It's not just about the fishing - though that's pretty darn good. It's about the whole package. The rugged beauty of the Oregon coast, the salty tang in the air, the camaraderie that builds over a day on the water. There's something special about watching the fog lift off the bay as you're trolling for salmon, or feeling that first tug on your line as a rockfish takes the bait. And let's not forget the payoff - there's nothing like firing up the grill with your fresh-caught fish, or cracking into a crab you pulled up yourself. It's more than just a fishing trip; it's an experience that sticks with you long after you've left the dock.

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, I could go on all day about why this trip is worth your time, but at the end of the day, you've got to experience it for yourself. Whether you're looking to stock the freezer, chase that personal best, or just enjoy a day on the water, our Winchester Bay Charter Fishing trip has you covered. We're talking a full day of fishing for salmon and rockfish, topped off with some of the best crabbing on the coast. Our experienced guides will put you on the fish and make sure you have a blast doing it. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak season, so don't wait to lock in your date. Give us a call, and let's get you out on the water for a day you won't forget. Trust me, your taste buds (and your Instagram feed) will thank you. See you on the bay!