Ultimate Winchester Bay Fishing & Crabbing Charter

Winchester Bay: Salmon, Rockfish & Crab Bonanza

Get ready for a triple-threat fishing adventure in Winchester Bay! This 7-hour private charter delivers non-stop action as you target salmon, rockfish, and Dungeness crab. Perfect for anglers who want it all, you'll experience the thrill of battling hard-fighting salmon, the rapid-fire action of bottom fishing for rockfish, and the satisfaction of pulling up crab pots loaded with tasty crustaceans. Our local captains know these waters like the back of their hand, putting you on the hottest bites and most productive grounds. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to offshore fishing, this trip offers something for everyone. So grab your gear and let's hit the Pacific!

What to Expect on the Water

Your day kicks off early at the Winchester Bay docks, where you'll meet your experienced captain and crew. As we motor out of the harbor, keep your eyes peeled for seals, sea lions, and maybe even a whale spout on the horizon. Once we reach the fishing grounds, it's go-time. We'll start by trolling for salmon, using downriggers to get our baits to the perfect depth. When the bite is on, it's all hands on deck as multiple rods can go off at once. After putting some chrome in the box, we'll switch gears and drop lines for rockfish. The action can be fast and furious, with double and triple hookups common. To cap off the day, we'll pull some crab pots we set earlier, often bringing up limits of big, meaty Dungeness crab. It's the perfect Winchester Bay trifecta!

Fishing Techniques & Gear

This trip combines several fishing methods to maximize your catch. For salmon, we use downriggers to precisely control our depth, trolling cut-plug herring or anchovy behind flashers. When targeting rockfish, we'll use conventional bottom fishing techniques with heavy jigs or bait rigs. The key is getting your offering right in the strike zone near the rocky structure these fish call home. Crabbing is a bit more laid back – we'll bait circular pots with fish carcasses and let them soak while we fish. The boat is fully equipped with top-quality rods, reels, and tackle, so all you need to bring is your fishing license and some snacks. Don't forget a cooler to take home your catch!

Species You'll Want to Hook

Chinook Salmon: Known locally as "kings," these are the heavyweight champs of Pacific salmon. Winchester Bay's Chinook average 15-25 pounds, but 40+ pounders aren't unheard of. They hit hard and fight like freight trains, often making blistering runs and acrobatic jumps. The best action typically happens from July through September. There's nothing quite like the rush of a big king peeling line off your reel!

Coho Salmon: Also called "silvers," these salmon might be smaller than Chinooks, but they more than make up for it with their aggressive strikes and aerial displays. Averaging 6-12 pounds, Cohos are known for their delicious orange flesh. The peak season runs from July to October. When a school moves through, the action can be non-stop.

Black Rockfish: These are the bread and butter of Winchester Bay bottom fishing. Aggressive and abundant, they school up over rocky structure and reefs. While they typically run 2-5 pounds, larger "yelloweye" rockfish can reach 10+ pounds. The meat is mild and flaky, perfect for fish tacos or beer batter. You can target these year-round, but summer and fall offer the best weather windows.

Lingcod: The apex predator of the nearshore reefs, lingcod are the stuff of fishermen's dreams. With their massive heads, razor-sharp teeth, and mottled blue-green coloration, they look like something from another planet. They can grow to over 50 pounds, though most caught are in the 5-15 pound range. Lingcod are ambush predators, often following hooked rockfish up from the bottom. When you hook into a big one, hold on tight!

Dungeness Crab: The cherry on top of your Winchester Bay fishing sundae. These large, meaty crabs are prized for their sweet, tender flesh. Legal-sized keepers must measure at least 5.75 inches across the back, but many reach 7-8 inches. The commercial season is limited, but recreational crabbers can target them year-round (though meat quality is best in winter months). There's nothing quite like pulling up a pot full of these tasty crustaceans!

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Winchester Bay offers a unique combination of diverse fishing opportunities and stunning coastal scenery. Where else can you battle salmon, fill a cooler with rockfish, and bring home a limit of crab all in one trip? The fishing grounds are close to port, meaning less travel time and more time with lines in the water. Our captains have decades of local knowledge, putting you on the fish when others come up empty. Plus, the area's relatively uncrowded compared to bigger ports, giving you a more personalized experience. Whether you're looking to stock the freezer or just enjoy a day on the water with friends and family, this trip delivers.

Time to Book Your Spot

Ready to experience the best fishing Winchester Bay has to offer? This 7-hour combo trip is the perfect way to sample everything from salmon trolling to bottom fishing and crabbing. Our experienced captains and well-equipped boats ensure you'll have the best chance at a cooler full of fresh seafood and memories to last a lifetime. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak salmon season, so don't wait to lock in your date. Grab your fishing buddies, pack some snacks, and get ready for an action-packed day on the Pacific. Book now and let's make some fishing magic happen!