Newport, Oregon, is a premier destination for anglers of all skill levels, offering a variety of fishing opportunities throughout the year. Nestled along the central coast, Newport provides access to the Pacific Ocean, Yaquina Bay, and numerous nearby rivers and lakes. Whether you’re casting from the shore, trolling offshore, or fly fishing in a river, there’s always something biting. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best fishing seasons in Newport for 2024, including tips on what you can catch and where.

 

Winter (January – March)

During the winter months, Dungeness crab and steelhead are the primary targets for anglers in Newport. This is the peak season for Dungeness crab in Yaquina Bay. Setting crab pots from a boat or the public pier can yield excellent catches. Winter steelhead fishing is also at its peak in nearby rivers like the Siletz and Alsea. These migratory fish provide exciting challenges for anglers.

In Yaquina Bay, focus on crabbing near the channel markers and the public crabbing docks. The best bait for crabbing includes fresh chicken, fish carcasses, or other pungent baits that attract crabs. Be sure to check local regulations for size limits and daily catch limits to ensure sustainable practices.

For steelhead, try fishing in the deeper pools and tailouts during high tide. Drift fishing with roe, shrimp, or nightcrawlers is effective, as is casting spinners and spoons. Fly fishing with nymphs and streamers can also yield good results, especially after a fresh rain when steelhead are more active. Dress warmly and be prepared for wet conditions, as winter weather in Oregon can be unpredictable.

Spring (April – June)

Spring brings the arrival of Chinook salmon, also known as “Springers,” which start their run in April. These fish can be caught in the rivers and bays around Newport. Offshore fishing for rockfish and lingcod also picks up as the weather improves.

In Yaquina Bay, trolling near the estuary and river mouth for Spring Chinook is highly productive. Using trolling gear with herring or spinners can attract these prized fish. Additionally, anchoring and fishing with bait in deep holes and channels can also be effective.

Offshore, head out to the reefs for rockfish and lingcod. Jigging with artificial lures or bait such as squid and anchovies works well. The rugged reefs and rocky structures offshore provide excellent habitat for these bottom-dwelling species.

Spring is also a great time for surfperch fishing along the beaches. Use sand shrimp, mole crabs, or small pieces of clam as bait. Fishing during incoming tides and in the surf zone where the waves break can yield good catches of surfperch, which are both fun to catch and delicious to eat.

Summer (July – September)

Summer is peak season for a variety of fish species in Newport. Albacore tuna fishing is a highlight, as these powerful fish migrate closer to shore. Bottom fishing for species like halibut, rockfish, and lingcod remains excellent. Inshore, look for opportunities to catch Coho salmon and Chinook salmon.

Offshore waters become more accessible and productive for albacore tuna. Local charter boats often offer trips targeting these fast and hard-fighting fish. Trolling with feathers, plugs, or live bait can be very effective. Once a school is located, chumming with live bait can keep the fish around the boat for extended periods.

For bottom fishing, head to deeper reefs and rocky structures. Using heavy tackle and strong lines is necessary to handle the larger fish found during this season. Halibut can be caught using large baits like herring, squid, or octopus on heavy rigs. Lingcod and rockfish respond well to jigs and baited hooks fished near the bottom.

Summer is also a great time to explore the numerous freshwater lakes and rivers for trout and bass. Fishing early in the morning or late in the evening can yield the best results as fish are more active during cooler parts of the day. Fly fishing for trout in the nearby rivers, such as the Siletz and Alsea, can be particularly rewarding. Bass fishing in local lakes like Olalla Reservoir offers a chance to catch both largemouth and smallmouth bass using a variety of lures and techniques.

Fall (October – December)

As fall arrives, the focus shifts back to salmon, especially Coho and Chinook, which return to the rivers to spawn. Crabbing picks up again as the water cools, and bottom fishing remains productive.

Yaquina Bay and the surrounding rivers are prime locations for fall salmon runs. Trolling in the bay or fishing from shore near river mouths can be successful. Use roe, spinners, and baitfish to attract bites. Brightly colored lures and bait can be particularly effective as the fish are more aggressive during their spawning runs.

For crabbing, return to the productive spots in Yaquina Bay. Use pots baited with fish carcasses or chicken to attract crabs. Fall crabbing can be particularly fruitful as the crabs are often more active and feeding heavily before winter.

Fall is also a great time to explore estuaries and coastal lakes for cutthroat trout and other freshwater species. As the water cools, fish become more active and feed heavily in preparation for winter, providing excellent fishing opportunities. Fly fishing for cutthroat trout in tidal areas and estuaries can be very productive. Using streamers and baitfish imitations can entice strikes from these aggressive feeders.

 

The rivers around Newport, such as the Siletz, Alsea, and Yaquina, offer prime opportunities for catching Coho and Chinook salmon. Focus on deeper pools and runs where the salmon hold as they prepare to spawn. Drift fishing with cured salmon eggs or casting spinners and plugs can be highly effective.

Newport, Oregon, offers year-round fishing opportunities that cater to all types of anglers. By understanding the seasonal patterns and knowing where to fish and what to target, you can make the most of your fishing adventures in this beautiful coastal region. Whether you prefer crabbing in the winter, chasing salmon in the spring and fall, or battling tuna in the summer, Newport has something to offer every angler. With the right preparation and techniques, you can enjoy successful fishing trips and create lasting memories in Newport’s rich and diverse fishing waters.