What is Surf Fishing?
Surf fishing involves casting your line into the ocean's surf zone—the area where the waves break along the shore. This type of fishing requires different techniques and equipment than traditional lake or river fishing due to the unique dynamics of ocean environments. On the Oregon Coast, surf fishing is popular for targeting species like surf perch, rockfish, and even the occasional salmon or halibut.
Best Times for Surf Fishing on the Oregon Coast
Seasonal Patterns
Surf fishing on the Oregon Coast can be productive year-round, though specific seasons may offer better opportunities depending on the target species.
- Spring (March to May): This is one of the best times to fish for surf perch. The water temperatures start warming up, and the fish begin moving closer to shore.
- Summer (June to August): Summer brings warmer waters, and the fishing for surf perch is generally good. Additionally, you may catch other species like striped bass and rockfish. The summer months are also prime time for catching salmon (chinook and coho) if you fish at the right spots.
- Fall (September to November): Fall offers some of the best fishing for larger species, including salmon, as they migrate back to rivers and streams. Surf perch remain active during this period.
- Winter (December to February): Winter can be hit or miss, with fewer anglers out due to colder weather. However, surf perch fishing can still be good if conditions are right, and the waters are calm.
Tidal Influence
Tides significantly impact surf fishing. Fish tend to feed most actively during the changing tides, especially around high and low tides. It’s generally best to fish during the first few hours of the incoming tide or the outgoing tide when fish move closer to shore to feed. The half-tide periods are also productive for surf fishing.
Essential Gear for Surf Fishing
To be successful at surf fishing on the Oregon Coast, you’ll need the right equipment:
Fishing Rod
A good surf fishing rod should be sturdy and long enough to handle the ocean's surf conditions. A 9- to 12-foot rod is ideal for casting your bait further into the surf. A longer rod allows for better control and distance, especially when the waves are large.
- Rod Power: Medium to heavy power is ideal for larger fish and strong surf conditions.
- Rod Action: Moderate to fast action rods work well for surf fishing, as they offer a good balance between casting distance and sensitivity.
Reel
Choose a spinning reel that can handle the harsh conditions of the surf. It should have a high line capacity, smooth drag system, and corrosion-resistant components. A reel size between 4000 and 6000 is generally recommended.
Fishing Line
A strong, durable fishing line is essential to handle the power of the surf and the size of the fish you’ll be targeting. A 10- to 20-pound test braided line works well, as it’s stronger and more sensitive, allowing you to feel bites more clearly. Fluorocarbon leaders (15- to 30-pound test) are great for visibility in clear water and are more resistant to abrasion from rocks and sand.
Hooks and Bait
The type of hook and bait you use will depend on the species you’re targeting:
- Surf Perch: Use size 6-8 hooks for smaller species like surf perch. A popular bait is sand shrimp or sand worms. Artificial baits like Berkley Gulp! or shrimp patterns can also work well.
- Rockfish: Larger hooks (1/0 to 3/0) are ideal. For bait, use herring, squid, or sand crab.
- Salmon and Halibut: These require larger hooks (3/0 to 6/0) and baits like herring, anchovies, or soft plastics. If you’re targeting halibut, it’s best to use a heavy sinker to keep your bait close to the bottom.
Sinkers
Due to the wave action, a heavier sinker is often necessary to keep your bait in place. A 3- to 6-ounce pyramid or spider weight is typically used to ensure your bait stays put while the waves push against it.
Other Essentials
- Fishing License: Before you fish, ensure you have a valid Oregon fishing license. These are required for most types of fishing on the coast and can be purchased online or at various sporting goods stores.
- Surf Fishing Cart: A cart can help you transport your gear from the parking lot to the beach, especially if you have heavy equipment or need to cover a large distance.
- Polarized Sunglasses: These reduce glare and help you see fish and structure in the water more clearly.
- Tackle Box: A tackle box to keep your hooks, weights, and other accessories organized.
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, a hat, and clothing to protect you from sun exposure.
- Clothing for Cold Weather: The Oregon Coast can be cold and windy, even during the summer, so dressing in layers is important.
Best Surf Fishing Locations on the Oregon Coast
While the Oregon Coast is home to numerous great surf fishing spots, the following locations are particularly popular:
1. Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach is one of the most iconic spots on the Oregon Coast. Known for its stunning views and large sandy beaches, it’s an excellent place to target surf perch and other species. The northern part of the beach is often less crowded, offering good fishing opportunities.
2. Newport
Newport’s Agate Beach and Nye Beach are popular spots for surf fishing. Both locations offer easy access and good fishing for surf perch, rockfish, and even salmon during peak season. The jetty at the mouth of Yaquina Bay can be a productive spot for larger species.
3. Bandon
Bandon is known for its excellent surf perch fishing and stunning coastal scenery. Coquille Point is a great spot to fish, and you’ll find plenty of sand dunes and open beach areas to work with. Keep an eye out for the occasional halibut or rockfish.
4. Tillamook Bay
Tillamook Bay’s beaches are known for their surf perch fishing. In addition, this area is often a good spot for salmon fishing, especially in the fall. The beaches around Cape Meares and Netarts Bay are great places to cast a line.
5. Pacific City
Pacific City is a great choice for those looking for both surf fishing and scenery. The beach here provides access to a range of fish species, including surf perch, rockfish, and the occasional salmon. The town is also less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed fishing experience.
Techniques for Surf Fishing
Casting and Retrieval
Casting your bait into the surf is a critical part of surf fishing. Follow these basic steps:
- Cast Beyond the Breakers: Aim to cast your line beyond the waves but not too far. A good rule of thumb is to cast to where the water is calmer and where the waves are breaking further out. This is often where fish congregate.
- Wait for the Bite: Allow the bait to settle on the bottom. Surf perch often bite quickly, while larger fish like rockfish or salmon might take longer. Be patient, but stay alert.
- Retrieving: If you’re not getting bites, reel in your line and cast again. If you catch a fish, gently reel it in, keeping steady pressure on the line. Don’t yank it, as you could lose the fish.
- Use a Sand Spike: If you're not actively reeling in a fish, you can use a sand spike to hold your rod in place while you wait.
Fishing in Different Water Conditions
- Clear Water: Fish can be more cautious in clear water, so use lighter tackle and smaller baits.
- Murky Water: Murky water often leads to more active feeding. Larger baits and heavier tackle can be used in these conditions.
- Strong Winds: Surf fishing in windy conditions requires heavier weights to keep your bait in place.
Safety Tips for Surf Fishing
- Watch the Weather: The Oregon Coast can be unpredictable, with sudden changes in weather. Always check the forecast before you head out and be prepared for rain, wind, and sudden changes in conditions.
- Be Cautious of Rip Currents: Rip currents are strong and can pull swimmers out to sea. Stay aware of the current conditions, and never turn your back on the ocean.
- Wear Proper Footwear: The rocky and sandy beaches can be tough on bare feet. Wear sturdy boots with good grip to avoid slipping on wet rocks or in the sand.
Conclusion
Surf fishing on the Oregon Coast offers an exciting opportunity to experience the beauty of the Pacific Ocean while pursuing a variety of fish species. Whether you’re targeting surf perch in the spring, chasing salmon in the fall, or trying your hand at rockfish, the Oregon Coast is an excellent destination for anglers. With the right gear, techniques, and a little patience, you can enjoy a productive and memorable day on the water.
