Native coho numbers had been dwindling considerably since the 70's on the Oregon Coast, but now thanks to improved regulations for ocean coho fishing they are beginning to make a recovery. Rivers up and down the coast had great runs in 2008, and 2009 is expected to be a banner year. The best rivers to target these fish are still rivers like the Sandy that have established hatchery programs, although there are many coastal streams that now have viable numbers of fish. The Willamette Valley fish arrive earlier than the coastal fish and finish earlier also. While interior Coho fishing is over by the end of October there are still good coho opportunities into early December on the Oregon Coast. Retention of Coho is only allowed for hatchery fish (like steelhead) and native Silvers must be released unharmed.

If you haven't fought a Coho on light tackle, add it to your to do list. They are as acrobatic as steelhead, pull hard and go on surging runs. However, they don't quite have the steelhead endurance and are generally landed within a few minutes. It's an explosive fight that leaves you wanting more. Oregon Coast and Cascade coho range from 5-15 pounds with a handful of fish in the high teens. Our favorite techniques for these fish are bobber/jig, bobber/eggs, spoons and spinners. Fly fishing is also effective and some our favorite patterns are clousers, bunny leeches, flash flies and egg patterns.

To book a Coho or Silver Salmon trip call us at 503.515.3533
or contact us for free guided fishing information!

RIVERS TO CHOOSE FROM: Sandy, Oregon Coast Rivers and Creeks, N. Fork Nehalem
SEASON: Fall