Oregon Coast Fishing Report: Salmon, Lingcod, and Rockfish Opportunities Abound

Here's your local fishing report for the Pacific Ocean off the Oregon Coast for Friday, April 4, 2025.

The weather along the coast today is favorable for fishing, with calmer seas expected through the weekend. Sunrise is at 6:49 AM, and sunset will be at 7:48 PM. Tidal conditions show a mid-morning high tide, which is ideal for targeting certain species near rocky structures and estuaries.

Chinook salmon retention is open from Cape Falcon to Humbug Mountain until May 15th, with a bag limit of two salmon per angler (24-inch minimum for Chinook). Anglers have reported solid catches of Chinook using brined anchovies and herring while trolling with flashers. Popular spots include the waters near Tillamook and Newport, where salmon are actively feeding on baitfish. Coho retention remains closed until later in the season.

Lingcod and rockfish action has been steady, though slightly slower for Lingcod. In Newport and Depoe Bay, near-limits of black, deacon, and copper rockfish were reported, with Lingcod catches tapering off compared to previous weeks. Lingcod remain a prized catch with a daily limit of two per angler (minimum size 22 inches). Target these fish using squid, octopus, or metal jigs near rocky reefs and underwater structures.

For bait, natural options like herring, squid, anchovies, and octopus are highly effective, especially for salmon, Lingcod, and larger rockfish. Artificial lures such as metal jigs, soft plastic swimbaits, and spoons have also proven productive. Recommended colors include chartreuse, silver, and blue, which mimic the natural baitfish present in these waters.

Hotspots to consider today:
1. **Tillamook Bay and Offshore**: Great for Chinook salmon and potential combo catches of rockfish and Lingcod.
2. **Newport Offshore Reefs**: A solid location for near-limits of rockfish and occasional Lingcod.

If you're heading out, don't forget your crabbing gear—Dungeness crabs are an excellent addition to your haul, with reports of 1-3 crabs per person in some areas.

Tight lines and happy fishing!