Astoria Bottom Fishing: Lingcod & Rockfish Trips

What to Expect During a Bottom Fishing Charter

I will let you know the exact meeting time and location a day or so ahead of time. Weather and tides decide the schedule for a safe bar crossing and biting fish. Once loaded up and the safety briefing is done we will head downriver to the ocean. Plan to enjoy seeing some wildlife, including seals, sea lions, birds, porpoises, and possibly some whales.

During the early season, our destination will be the sunken jetty at the mouth of the Columbia. This lets us get on the fish quickly. Later on I usually fish further south at Tillamook head lighthouse.

The Bottom Fishing Charter Main Event

Depending on weather and time of year we will either fish near Tillamook Head Lighthouse or the South Jetty. Once we’ve arrived on site, we’ll use heavy rods with whole bait, plastic grubs, shrimp flies, or metal jigs. You can choose what you put on the end of your line, or follow my recommendation. I usually bring a large choice of plastic grubs and plenty of bait.

After a quick demonstration on how to jig for lingcod and rockfish it will be time for the first drift. I’ll set the boat up so that the current and the wind cause it to drift past likely spots. You’ll drop your gear down until you feel it touch the bottom and start working it. When you feel the fish bite, set the hook and start reeling. This type of fishing gives me plenty of time to coach beginners. Experienced anglers can get as much or as little help as they want.