Get ready to chase silver in the picturesque waters of Winchester Bay, Oregon! Captain Mark LaDuke's guided salmon charter is your ticket to some of the best fishing action on the Oregon coast. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip offers the perfect blend of expert guidance, top-notch gear, and prime fishing grounds. Hop aboard Mark's 2018 Hewescraft and prepare for a day filled with the thrill of battling Chinook and Coho salmon in their natural habitat.
Your salmon adventure kicks off bright and early at Salmon Harbor Marina. Captain Mark will meet you at T Dock, right by the main ramp (on Tuesdays), where you'll climb aboard his well-equipped Hewescraft. This isn't your average fishing boat – it's decked out with GPS and a fish finder to put you right on top of the action. As you cruise out of the bay, you'll feel the anticipation building. The misty Oregon coast creates the perfect backdrop for a day of salmon fishing, and Mark's local knowledge means you're headed straight for the hotspots.
With a two-angler minimum, you'll have plenty of elbow room to work those rods. And don't worry about bringing gear – Mark's got you covered with everything you need to land the big one. Just remember to grab your fishing license before you arrive, and you're all set for a full day of chasing chrome.
When it comes to salmon fishing in Winchester Bay, trolling is the name of the game. Captain Mark will set you up with a spread of rods, each rigged with the perfect lure or bait to entice those hungry salmon. You might be pulling flashy spoons, wiggling hoochies, or maybe even herring if that's what the fish are craving. As you troll along, Mark will be constantly checking the fish finder, adjusting your speed and depth to keep you in the strike zone.
Don't sweat it if you're new to this style of fishing – Mark's there to show you the ropes. He'll teach you how to watch for that telltale dip of the rod tip that signals a bite, and how to set the hook when a salmon strikes. And when you hook up with a big Chinook, get ready for the fight of your life! These powerful fish will put your arms and your gear to the test, but the rush of reeling one in is what keeps anglers coming back year after year.
While every day on the water is different, Winchester Bay has been producing some stellar salmon fishing lately. Anglers have been pulling in chunky Chinooks weighing 20 pounds or more, with a few lucky folks landing 30-pounders. The Coho runs have been equally impressive, with bright silver salmon in the 8 to 12-pound range providing non-stop action. Remember, the key to a successful day isn't just about the size of your catch – it's about the memories you make and the skills you develop along the way.
Chinook Salmon, often called "Kings," are the heavyweight champs of the Pacific salmon world. These bruisers can tip the scales at over 50 pounds, though a more typical catch in Winchester Bay ranges from 15 to 30 pounds. Chinooks are known for their rich, fatty meat and their incredible fighting ability. They start showing up in the bay in late spring, with the peak season running from July through September. When you hook into a Chinook, be prepared for screaming reels and aching arms – these fish don't give up easily!
Coho Salmon, also known as "Silvers," might be smaller than their Chinook cousins, but what they lack in size, they make up for in acrobatics. Cohos typically weigh between 6 and 12 pounds and are famous for their spectacular leaps and runs when hooked. These feisty fish usually arrive in Winchester Bay later in the summer, with the best fishing from August through October. Cohos are prized for their delicate flavor and firm, orange flesh. When you're battling a Coho, keep a tight line – these acrobatic fish love to throw the hook with their aerial displays!
It's not just about the fish – though that's a big part of it. Winchester Bay offers a unique fishing experience that combines the thrill of the catch with breathtaking coastal scenery. As you troll for salmon, you might spot seals popping up to check out your catch, or see bald eagles soaring overhead. The misty mornings give way to sunny afternoons, and there's nothing quite like watching the sun set over the Pacific after a successful day on the water.
Captain Mark's experience and easy-going nature make the trip enjoyable for anglers of all skill levels. He's got a knack for putting clients on fish, but he's also a great teacher for those looking to improve their salmon fishing skills. Whether you're a local looking for a weekend adventure or a visitor wanting to experience the best of Oregon fishing, this charter delivers.
Ready to get in on the action? Winchester Bay's salmon season is in full swing, and spots on Captain Mark's charter fill up fast. At $250 per person with a two-angler minimum, it's an affordable way to experience world-class salmon fishing without breaking the bank. Remember, all the gear is provided, so all you need to bring is your fishing license and a good attitude.
Don't miss out on your chance to battle these silver-sided giants in one of Oregon's most beautiful fishing spots. Whether you're dreaming of that photo with a massive Chinook or just want to spend a day making memories on the water, this charter has you covered. Give Captain Mark a call and get ready to feel the thrill of Oregon salmon fishing at its finest. The fish are biting, the scenery is stunning, and your spot on the boat is waiting. Book now and get ready for a fishing adventure you'll be talking about for years to come!
Chinook salmon, or Kings, are the heavyweights of the Pacific Northwest. These bruisers can tip the scales at 30 pounds or more, with thick, orange-red flesh that's hard to beat on the grill. You'll find them hugging the bottom in deeper water, especially near river mouths. Late summer to early fall is prime time, when they're staging to run upriver. Kings are known for their powerful, bulldozing fights – be ready for some serious reel-screaming action. They're not the most acrobatic, but they'll test your arms and your gear. If you're after a trophy, focus on fishing the incoming tide with herring or large plugs. Local tip: Keep your drag set light at first – these guys love to make blistering initial runs that can snap light leaders if you're not careful.
Coho salmon, aka silvers, are the acrobats of our local waters. Typically running 8-12 pounds, these feisty fish will leap clear out of the water when hooked. Look for them in the upper part of the water column, often near kelp beds or current seams. Late summer through fall is the sweet spot, as they gather before their spawning run. Cohos are prized for their fight – they'll zigzag, tailwalk, and generally go berserk on light tackle. Their bright orange meat is top-notch eating too. Anglers love targeting them because they're more aggressive than Kings, often hitting lures with reckless abandon. To up your odds, try trolling with flashy spoons or hoochies behind a dodger. Here's a local secret: on calm days, watch for "finners" – Cohos cruising with their fins out of the water. Cast a small spinner right in front of them for explosive strikes.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 1
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 150