Calm Seas, Hot Bites: Oregon Coastal Fishing Update for April 2, 2025

Good morning, anglers! Here’s your Pacific Ocean fishing report for April 2, 2025, focused on the Oregon coastline.

Today's weather along the Oregon coast looks favorable for fishing. Expect light winds and sunny skies with a high around 60°F, though the water remains chilly, so dress warmly. Sunrise was at 6:47 AM today, and sunset will be at 7:44 PM. Ocean conditions have improved significantly, offering calm waters through the weekend.

**Fish Activity:** Rockfishing remains strong from Depoe Bay to Newport. Near-limits of black, deacon, copper, and China rockfish were reported, with a slower but consistent Lingcod bite. Flatfish, including sand dabs, are also biting well offshore. For salmon enthusiasts, the ocean Chinook salmon season is open between Cape Falcon and Humbug Mountain, with good reports closer to river mouths. Redtail surfperch are active along sandy beaches, particularly during high tide.

**Recent Catches:** Anglers have landed near-limits of rockfish mixed with a few Lingcod. Flatfish catches offshore continue to be plentiful, with some impressive hauls. Reports from surf anglers highlight strong action for surfperch using clam necks and Berkley Gulp Sandworms. Salmon fishing is picking up at the edges of estuaries as spring Chinook are making their way in.

**Best Baits and Lures:**
- For rockfish and Lingcod: Use jigs or swimbaits mimicking squid or baitfish. Lingcod seem to prefer heavier jigs near rock structures.
- For salmon: Brined anchovies or herring trolled behind flashers are producing well, especially in estuary areas.
- For surfperch: Clam necks, mole crabs, and sand shrimp are top choices, or try artificial baits like Berkley Gulp Sandworms for convenience.
- For trout in nearby lakes: Worms and PowerBait continue to be successful.

**Hot Spots:**
1. **Depoe Bay:** Near-limits of rockfish have been reported here, and the flat seas make for an enjoyable day on the water.
2. **Newport Jetty:** A good mix of rockfish and Lingcod has been caught, with anglers also seeing success right off the jetties.
3. **Bandon Beach:** The surfperch bite is excellent, especially during mid-morning high tide.

The tides today will favor fishing. Mid-morning is the sweet spot for surfperch on sandy beaches, while boaters should enjoy smooth water offshore. Remember, yelloweye and quillback rockfish are prohibited, so ensure proper identification of your catch. Lingcod, with a minimum length of 22 inches, have a bag limit of two per person.

With improving conditions and a variety of fish biting, it's a great day to cast your line in the Pacific. Tight lines, everyone!