Get ready for a full day of salmon fishing action in the rich waters of Coos Bay, Oregon. Our 8-hour charter puts you right where the big ones bite, targeting both King (Chinook) and Coho salmon. We kick off the season on the Umpqua River, then shift gears to the Coos River system come August when the salmon run is in full swing. No need to lug your own gear - we've got top-notch tackle covered. Plus, we'll clean and package your catch, so you can focus on reeling in the big ones. Our seasoned guides know these waters like the back of their hand, giving you the best shot at landing that wall-hanger. Just remember to grab your fishing license before you hop aboard, and we'll take care of the rest.
We'll be trolling for salmon, which means we'll cruise at a slow pace, dragging lures or bait behind the boat. It's a laid-back fishing style that lets you kick back between bites, but be ready - when a salmon hits, it's game on! We use downriggers to get our gear to the right depth where the salmon are hanging out. You'll learn to watch the rod tips for that telltale bounce that signals a strike. Our guides will show you the ropes if you're new to trolling, and even experienced anglers might pick up a few local tricks. The coastal scenery ain't bad either - keep an eye out for seals, sea lions, and maybe even a whale spout in the distance.
Folks come from all over to fish these waters, and for good reason. The salmon runs here are legendary, with fish often tipping the scales at 20 pounds or more. But it's not just about the size - it's the whole package. The misty mornings on the river, the thrill of the first bite, and the camaraderie that builds over a long day on the water. Our guests tell us they love the no-fuss approach - just show up ready to fish, and we'll handle the rest. And let's be honest, there's nothing quite like the taste of fresh-caught salmon for dinner. Many of our regulars have been coming back for years, making it an annual tradition with family or fishing buddies.
Chinook Salmon, also known as King Salmon, are the heavyweight champs of the Pacific salmon world. These bruisers can grow over 50 pounds, though a more typical catch might be in the 15-30 pound range. They're known for their rich, fatty meat that's perfect for grilling or smoking. Chinooks are spring and fall runners, with the best action usually happening from May to July and then again from August to October. When a big King decides to take your bait, hold on tight - they're famous for their powerful runs and acrobatic jumps that'll test your arms and your drag.
Coho Salmon, or Silver Salmon, might be a bit smaller than their Chinook cousins, but what they lack in size they make up for in fight. These feisty fish typically weigh in between 6-12 pounds and are known for their wild, unpredictable battles. Cohos are fall runners, with the peak season usually hitting from August through October. They're aggressive biters and often travel in schools, so when you find them, it can be non-stop action. The meat is a bit leaner than Chinook but still packs that classic salmon flavor that's hard to beat. Don't let their size fool you - a Coho on the line can give even experienced anglers a run for their money.
This year's been a banner one for salmon fishing in Coos Bay. We've seen some real beauties come aboard, with several Chinooks breaking the 40-pound mark. One of our regulars, Mike, landed a 47-pounder last month that had the whole boat cheering. The Coho run's been strong too, with lots of limits being filled and some impressive fighters in the 15-pound range. The key has been finding those cooler pockets of water where the bait fish are hanging out. Our captains have been dialing in on these spots, leading to some epic days on the water. Remember, every trip is different, but the potential for a personal best is always there when you're fishing these waters.
Look, if you're itching to tangle with some hard-fighting salmon in one of Oregon's prime fishing spots, this is your chance. Our 8-hour charters give you plenty of time to get into the action and hopefully fill that cooler with some top-notch salmon. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time wetting a line, our guides will make sure you have a blast and learn something new. Just imagine the stories you'll have to tell (and the meals you'll enjoy) after a day out on these waters. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak season, so don't wait too long to lock in your date. Give us a call or book online, and let's get you out there where the big ones are biting. Trust me, once you've experienced salmon fishing in Coos Bay, you'll be planning your next trip before you even hit the dock.
Chinook salmon, also called kings, are the heavyweights of Pacific salmon. These bruisers typically run 15-30 pounds but can top 50 in our waters. You'll find them hanging deep, often hugging the bottom in rivers or offshore. Kings are prized for their rich, flavorful meat and hard-fighting spirit. Peak season here is June through August, when they're staging to run upriver. Trolling with herring or large plugs is deadly effective. Kings aren't always the most aggressive biters, so be patient and methodical. My pro tip: If you hook one, don't horse it in. Let it run and tire itself out - these big boys will make you work for every inch of line. The fight and taste make kings a favorite for both novice and seasoned anglers.
Coho salmon, or silvers, are the acrobats of the salmon world. Typically 6-12 pounds, these feisty fish are known for their spectacular leaps when hooked. You'll find them in our coastal waters and rivers, often in calmer pools and eddies. Coho season peaks from July to October, with the best action usually in August and September. These fish are a blast on light tackle, putting up an energetic fight with lots of aerial action. Their orange-red flesh is prized for its delicate flavor. When targeting coho, I like to use bright, flashy lures - they can't resist a bit of bling. My local secret? Try twitching a pink jig under a float, especially in slightly murky water. It drives them crazy. Whether you're a seasoned pro or first-timer, hooking into a acrobatic coho is sure to get your heart racing.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 225