Fish Migration on The Oregon Coast – An Angler’s Paradise

May 16, 2023

Oregon Coast Fishing: Types of Fish

The annual fish migration on the Oregon Coast transforms the region into an anglers’ paradise. The peak of the migration typically occurs during the fall months, with thousands of salmon making their way upstream. Along with salmon, there are tons of different fish species that migrate along the coast, making it an angler’s paradise. Several salmon species even undertake seasonal migrations from the ocean freshwater sources.

Gold Beach, located in Curry County on the southern Oregon coast, is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. The popular types of fish include:

Salmon
Steelhead
Bass
Halibut

Let’s learn more about popular fish types in Gold Beach:

Salmon Fishing: Oregon

Salmon and tuna season lasts from June to September. During the warmer months, salmon migrate because they are anadromous–meaning they can live in both salt and freshwater. Spring Chinook is the species of salmon you would catch if you chose to fish in the winter.

Steelhead Fishing: Oregon

Steelhead trout are also abundant in the Rogue River. The peak of the steelhead migration typically occurs during the winter months. They can be caught using a variety of methods, including fly fishing, spin fishing, and drift fishing. February is the peak month for steelhead season, but they are still present during the summer. They weigh an average of 1-2 pounds.

Bass Fishing: Oregon

Summer and fall are the best seasons to fish for bass. Some of the different types of bass you might catch are hyper striped bass, largemouth bass, and smallmouth bass. Generally found in shallow ponds or lakes, largemouth bass are mostly present on the central and northern coast.

Halibut Fishing: Oregon

The two types of halibut species found in Oregon are california halibut and pacific halibut. Pacific halibut are diamond shaped and have a one-sided eye. You can catch halibut by deep sea fishing, bottom fishing, heavy tackling, light tackling, and spearfishing.

How to Plan

The fish migration on the Oregon Coast is a very popular occurrence, so plan ahead! The area has several campgrounds, lodges, and RV parks that cater to fishing enthusiasts, making it a great destination for a fishing vacation. Prime months to fish in Oregon are May to October, so make plans before it gets cold in the fall. Gold Beach offers some of the best deep ocean fishing on the coast. If you are RV’ing this summer and looking to fish in the northwest, check out Honey Bear By the Sea RV resort on the beautiful Highway 101.

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