Pacific City’s long history of fishing, both commercially and for recreation, makes it a great place to fish no matter your experience level. Ocean fishing in particular is sure to be a rewarding experience!
From the surfline to deep sea, there is an abundance of variety to be found. From salmon and albacore tuna to flounder and rockfish, Pacific City offers some of the best fishing on the Oregon coast. You can choose to go out on a charter, venture out in your own small boat or kayak, or go inland fishing for trout and bass.
Town Lake (aka Miles Lake), though small in size, boasts big-time beauty. It is located just over the bridge at Woods (at the north end of PC). You will be shielded from the sea breeze by a large dune and surrounded by greenery usually found in a rainforest. The Department of Fish and Wildlife wants you to enjoy Town Lake by stocking it with several thousand legal size trout from March through August – so many fish that they have to take turns getting wet! Just remember not to go over the limit or catch more than you can use fresh.
The Big Nestucca is a 53-mile long river that flows west-southwest to Nestucca Bay, meandering through many coastal towns. There are two boat launches in Pacific City – one by the north end at Nestucca Sports Goods and another at the south end of town.
The Bob Straub State Park launch on the west side is very well maintained, with a large paved parking lot. This river is famous for its huge fall Chinook Salmon, but it is also known for a winter run of Steelhead and Cutthroat Trout.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This river is also home to wild Coho salmon that are listed as Threatened Species under the Endangered Species Act. If you decide to fish here, or in any of its tributaries, please know your fish well and help conserve this species by releasing un-clipped adipose fin native Salmon and Steelhead back into the water.
Flowing 18 miles from its headwaters to Nestucca Bay, the Little Nestucca is difficult to access, but provides value to the local ecosystem and wildlife. There is a boat launch at the Hwy 101 bridge. The river is famous for huge fall Chinook Salmon but also attracts Steelhead and Cutthroat Trout in winter.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This river also contains wild Coho salmon that are listed as Threatened Species under the Endangered Species Act. Know your fish well if you decide to fish this river, or any of its tributaries and help conserve this species.
The Nestucca Estuary
The Nestucca Estuary, situated in the watershed of the Nestucca and Neskowin rivers, is where the Little and Big Nestucca rivers meet to form Nestucca Bay. It then empties into the ocean. Depending on the tide, water levels can fluctuate from depths to mudflats – making it an ideal habitat for many species of wildlife unique to the area.
Trout stocking maps
If you’re looking for a great place to fish for trout in Pacific City or anywhere in Oregon, check out the ODFW fishing and trout stocking maps. You’ll be able to find nearby fishing locations, driving directions and descriptions of amenities.
The Pacific Ocean
Spend a day out at sea in a dory boat off the coast of Cape Kiwanda. These flat-bottomed boats are thrilling to watch as they launch and land from the beach. You can fish for salmon, bottom fish, or crab, or take a sightseeing trip around the rock formation and north to Cape Lookout. Let one of the local dory boat captains take care of you for the day – they’ll even clean and package your catch at the end of the day.
Dory Boat Madness!
Pacific City is known for its dory boats, which have been around for over 100 years. Local fishermen have used dory boats for decades because of their beach-landing abilities. Their open hulls and flat bottoms make them easy to launch right from the beach. Boats are rowed or pushed into the surf until the outboard motor can be dropped. In Pacific City, dory boats are the preferred mode of transportation for ocean fishing, and they can often be seen fishing off Cape Kiwanda when ocean conditions permit. With Pacific City’s fleet of dory boats, you can experience fishing like a local!
BOOK A PACIFIC CITY FISHING CHARTER
The following Pacific City fishing outfitters offer fishing charters during your Pacific City visit.
Haystack Fishing
This company has been running boat charters in Pacific City since 1997. The crew will take good care of you under the leadership of Captain Joe Hay. For groups of 2-6, they offer fishing outings that include everything you’ll need, including an experienced guide, fishing gear, bait, cleaning, filleting, vacuum sealing, and ice for fresh fish.
Catch various types of fish on a 22-foot dory boat with Captain Mark Lytle. You’ll have the opportunity to fish off the beautiful Cape Kiwanda for Bottom Fish, Ling Cod, Dungeness Crab, and Salmon. Most trips are 4-6 hours long.
Eagle Charters Dory Fishing
Spend 4-6 hours fishing with experienced Captain Dan Rocha on a deep sea dory expedition. Fish will be cleaned and filleted for you, and crabs cooked before heading back to your Pacific City vacation rental!
Ready to Go on a Fishing Adventure in Pacific City? Book with Oregon Beach Vacations!
Whether you want to take a guided fishing charter, or go off on your own, Oregon Beach Vacations offers hundreds of vacation rentals in and near Pacific City. You’ll find options that are perfect for fishing groups and families alike! Book one of our rental homes today and start planning your Pacific City fishing adventure.
Need more ideas for your Pacific City Trip? Check Out Our Area Guide!
