"Oregon Coast Fishing Report: Rockfish, Lingcod, and Salmon Abound as Spring Arrives"

Fishing Report for Pacific Ocean, Oregon – April 4, 2025

It’s another great day for anglers along the Oregon coast, with conditions favorable for a variety of fish species. Today’s sunrise was at 6:48 AM, and the sunset will be at 7:47 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to get out on the water. Tides in the Newport area show a high tide peaking at 11:04 AM at 6.73 feet, followed by a low tide at 5:22 PM at 0.62 feet—so plan your trips around these changes for optimal fishing.

The weather is cooperating, with overcast skies in the morning breaking into sunshine by the afternoon, light winds, and high temperatures around 58°F. Swell conditions remain moderate, making it a suitable day for both offshore and nearshore fishing.

**Fish Activity and Recent Catches:**
Rockfish and lingcod are the big draws currently. Reports from Depoe Bay and Newport indicate near-limits of black, copper, deacon, and China rockfish. Lingcod catches have slowed down compared to earlier weeks but remain a viable target for anglers who put in the time. Offshore waters are seeing continued success with the longleader fishery, where anglers are pulling in a mixed bag of colorful rockfish species. Crabbing has also been productive, averaging one to three crabs per person per pot, so it’s worth setting some traps while you’re out.

Salmon season is off to a promising start, especially for Chinook. The ocean salmon fishery from Cape Falcon to Humbug Mountain is open until May 15, with a bag limit of two salmon per angler (excluding coho). Chinook around 24 inches are being caught with herring and anchovies as preferred baits, especially near feeding grounds.

**Recommended Baits and Lures:**
- For rockfish and lingcod: Try large jigs, curly-tail grubs, or leadhead lures in white or green. Anchovies or squid are excellent for live bait setups.
- For Chinook salmon: Herring trolled with flashers remains the top choice. Salmon roe is highly effective in rivers but can also work near estuaries.
- For surf perch: Clam necks, shrimp, or Berkley Gulp sandworms are reliable. Surf casters have been seeing good catches in shallow waters.

**Hot Spots:**
1. **Depoe Bay**: Known for consistent rockfish and occasional lingcod, this is a great spot for bottom fishing.
2. **Newport Jetty**: A versatile location for both salmon fishing in the deeper channels and rockfish along the jetty structure.
3. **Yaquina Bay**: Good for salmon trolling and light crabbing. Keep an eye on the tidal flow for the best action.

With improving weather through the weekend, now’s the time to get out and enjoy the bounty of the Oregon coast. Tight lines, and happy fishing!