Fishing the Jetties on the Oregon Coast: A Complete Guide

The Oregon Coast is an oasis for anglers, with its rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, estuaries, and, importantly, its iconic jetties. These man-made structures, extending into the Pacific Ocean, are hotspots for both novice and experienced fishermen. They provide access to deep water and shelter for various fish species, making them a prime location for recreational fishing. You can target salmon, bottom fish, or the occasional halibut, the jetties offer a unique and productive fishing experience.

What Are the Jetties?

Jetties are structures that extend from the shore into the ocean or a river mouth. On the Oregon Coast, they primarily protect navigation channels from strong currents and waves while preventing sediment buildup in harbors and estuaries. For anglers, these rocky and concrete formations create an ideal habitat for fish. They offer deep water access without a boat and attract baitfish, which in turn attract larger predatory species.

Notable jetties along the Oregon Coast include:

• Astoria Jetties: Located at the mouth of the Columbia River, they are legendary for salmon, sturgeon, and bottom fish.
  
  
• Tillamook Bay Jetties: Popular for salmon and striped bass.
  
  
• Newport Jetties: Ideal for bottom fish like rockfish, lingcod, and occasionally salmon.
  
  
• Coos Bay Jetties: Known for Dungeness crab as well as salmon and halibut.
  
  

Fish Species Commonly Found at the Jetties

Fishing from the jetties gives anglers access to a variety of species throughout the year. Common catches include:

• Salmon (Chinook, Coho, and Sockeye): Salmon runs are a major draw during summer and fall. Chinook are especially abundant near estuary mouths.
  
  
• Rockfish: These include black rockfish, blue rockfish, and copper rockfish, usually found near rocky areas of the jetties.
  
  
• Lingcod: Found lurking in crevices, especially in spring and fall.
  
  
• Surfperch: Small but plentiful, ideal for beginners and kids.
  
  
• Striped Bass: Particularly in the northern bays and Columbia River jetties.
  
  
• Dungeness Crab: Though technically not fish, the jetties are prime crab territory.
  
  

Best Techniques for Jetty Fishing

The jetties present unique challenges, so knowing the right techniques is crucial:

1. Casting and Bait

• Bait: Popular options include anchovies, herring, shrimp, and sandworms. Salmon eggs and artificial lures like spoons, spinners, or soft plastics also work well.
  
  
• Casting: Casting beyond the breakers into deeper water increases your chances of catching larger fish. Be mindful of currents and waves.
  
  

2. Bottom Fishing

• Use a heavier weight and a dropper loop rig to reach the bottom near rocks and crevices. This method is ideal for rockfish, lingcod, and other groundfish.
  
  
• Make sure your hooks are sharp and strong; jetties can be rough on tackle.
  
  

3. Drift Fishing

• Drift along the jetty edges using bait or lures. This works well for salmon and striped bass during their migratory runs.
  
  
• Keep an eye on tides, as incoming tides often bring fish closer to the jetty edges.
  
  

4. Crabbing

• Use baited crab pots or rings, typically with chicken, fish carcasses, or squid. Secure your gear well to prevent losing it in strong currents.
  
  

Safety Tips for Jetty Fishing

Fishing from the jetties can be dangerous, especially during high surf or stormy weather. Follow these guidelines:

1. Wear Non-Slip Footwear: Rocks are often slick with algae and water. Boots or shoes with good grip are essential.
   
   
2. Use a Life Jacket: Even experienced anglers risk being swept into the ocean by unexpected waves.
   
   
3. Check Tides and Weather: Avoid fishing during large swells or storms. High tides can cover rocks and make footing treacherous.
   
   
4. Fish With a Buddy: It’s safer to fish with someone else, especially on remote jetties.
   
   
5. Bring Safety Gear: Rope, a whistle, and a waterproof first aid kit are recommended.
   
   

When to Fish the Jetties

Timing is everything. Some of the best periods include:

• Spring: Lingcod and crab are abundant; salmon begin their early runs.
  
  
• Summer: Salmon fishing peaks, especially Coho, along with rockfish and surfperch.
  
  
• Fall: Chinook salmon dominate, and crab season is in full swing.
  
  
• Winter: Fewer anglers venture out, but bottom fish like rockfish and lingcod remain active.
  
  

Tides also affect success. Incoming tides generally bring fish closer to shore, while slack tides may result in less activity.

Tips for a Successful Jetty Fishing Trip

1. Scout the Location: Arrive early to find the best spots and observe other anglers.
   
   
2. Pack Smart: Bring extra tackle, bait, sunscreen, water, and snacks.
   
   
3. Understand Regulations: Oregon has strict fishing regulations regarding species, size limits, and seasons. Check the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) website before heading out.
   
   
4. Patience Pays Off: Fishing from jetties requires persistence. Often the best catch comes after waiting for tides or fish movement.

With proper preparation, attention to tides and weather, and safe practices, jetty fishing can become one of the most memorable experiences for anglers of all skill levels. The next time you stand on a rocky jetty with the Pacific surf crashing around you, know that you’re part of a long tradition of Oregon Coast fishermen—chasing the thrill of the catch in one of the most scenic coastal landscapes in the United States.

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