Heart of the Dunes 2009

A day on the ocean

Published: Monday, May 5th, 2008 A day on the ocean 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 char ter trips for bottomfish are available out of Winchester Bay, many anglers choose to fish off the jetties that form the “Triangle” on the south side of the Umpqua River mouth. The most common fish taken are striped surfperch, greenling and rockfish. A few lingcod and cabezon also are taken. Similar fishing for slightly smaller fish is available to anglers fishing the water inside the jetties— the Triangle — and it is usually less windy.

Seaperch — The redtailed surfperch, also called “pinkfin,” 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 near where they plan to fish.

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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