Heart of the Dunes 2009

A day on the ocean ” or dock or mudflat

Published: Thursday, June 4th, 2009 There are lots of opportunities available to anglers, clammers and crabbers along the coast. But make sure to have a current copy of the Oregon Sportfishing Regulations. Nothing can take the edge off what would otherwise be a wonderful experience like receiving a ticket.

Halibut: Fishing for these tasty fish is pretty much confined to those willing to pay for charter trips ? or with very seaworthy boats. Fishing is legal only at certain times. Be sure to check the latest information for seasons.

Bottomfishing: Although charter trips for bottomfish are available out of Winchester Bay, many anglers choose to fish off the jetties that form the œtriangle" on the south side of the Umpqua River mouth. The most common fish caught are striped surfperch, greenling and rockfish. A few lingcod and cabezon also are taken. .

Seaperch: The redtailed surfperch, also called œpinkfin," is regularly taken from area beaches by anglers fishing the surf. Many anglers use sand shrimp, but others choose to dig sandworms at low tide.

Salmon: Though there's no Chinook season this year, there's an abundance of coho, or silver, salmon available to anglers.

Crab: Catching and cooking your own crab is an easy task. Several local businesses rent or sell them and also have the licenses, tide books and regulations.

Clamming: Shovels may also be available to rent from tackle shops and the folks there can tell you where the best places are to dig.

For info: Stop by the local tackle shops for the best tips. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife puts a weekly fishing report online at http://www.dfw.state.or.us. Click on the southwest zone. Fishing regulations also are posted on that Web site.
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