Charleston Fishing

Charleston is a historic fishing community located in Coos County, Oregon. It's known for its picturesque harbor, abundant marine life, and vibrant fishing culture. Charleston is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, the Coos Bay, and numerous rivers and lakes, making it an ideal destination for both saltwater and freshwater fishing enthusiasts.

1.1 The Fishing Culture in Charleston

Fishing is more than just a pastime in Charleston—it's a way of life. The town’s economy is deeply tied to the commercial fishing industry, and recreational fishing has become increasingly popular among locals and tourists alike. The community’s dedication to preserving the marine environment ensures that Charleston remains a prime fishing destination for generations to come.

2. Types of Fishing in Charleston

Charleston offers a diverse range of fishing experiences, from saltwater and freshwater fishing to crabbing and clamming. Each type provides unique challenges and rewards, making it easy for anglers to find their preferred method of fishing.

2.1 Saltwater Fishing

Saltwater fishing in Charleston is exceptional, with the Pacific Ocean offering a wide variety of fish species. The coastal waters around Charleston are teeming with salmon, halibut, rockfish, lingcod, and more.

• Salmon Fishing: Salmon fishing is one of the main attractions in Charleston, particularly during the summer and fall months. King (Chinook) salmon and Coho salmon are the most sought-after species. Anglers often use trolling techniques with herring or spinners to entice these powerful fish.
• Halibut Fishing: The deep waters off the coast of Charleston are prime territory for Pacific halibut. These flatfish are known for their size and strength, making them a challenging catch. The best time for halibut fishing is from May through September.
• Rockfish and Lingcod: The rocky reefs and underwater structures near Charleston harbor a variety of rockfish and lingcod. These fish can be caught year-round, with jigging and bottom fishing being the most effective techniques.

2.2 Freshwater Fishing

Charleston is also close to several rivers and lakes, offering excellent freshwater fishing opportunities. The Coos River, Coquille River, and Tenmile Lakes are popular spots.

• Steelhead and Trout Fishing: The rivers near Charleston are renowned for their steelhead runs, particularly in the winter. Rainbow and cutthroat trout are also abundant in these waters. Fly fishing and drift fishing are commonly used methods.
• Bass Fishing: Tenmile Lakes, located just a short drive from Charleston, is a premier bass fishing destination. Largemouth bass thrive in these lakes, and the warmer months are ideal for targeting them with topwater lures and soft plastics.

3. Best Fishing Spots in Charleston

Charleston’s diverse fishing spots cater to all types of anglers, from those who prefer the open ocean to those who enjoy the calmness of a river or lake.

3.1 Charleston Marina

The Charleston Marina is the heart of the town’s fishing activities. It’s an excellent starting point for ocean fishing trips, and charter services are readily available. The marina is also a great place for crabbing, with a dedicated dock where you can drop your pots.

3.2 Sunset Bay State Park

Sunset Bay State Park, located just west of Charleston, offers stunning coastal views and excellent shore fishing opportunities. Anglers can catch rockfish, perch, and greenling from the rocky outcrops. The park also has easy access to the beach, making it a great spot for surf fishing.

3.3 Cape Arago State Park

Cape Arago State Park is another prime fishing spot near Charleston. The rugged cliffs and deep waters around the cape are ideal for rockfish, lingcod, and salmon fishing. The park also offers tide pools and hiking trails, making it a great destination for a family outing.

3.4 Coos River

The Coos River, which flows into Coos Bay, is a top location for freshwater fishing. The river is particularly popular during the salmon and steelhead seasons. Bank fishing and drift boats are common ways to fish the river, and there are several access points along its length.

3.5 Tenmile Lakes

Tenmile Lakes, comprising North Tenmile Lake and South Tenmile Lake, is a freshwater angler's paradise. These interconnected lakes are well-stocked with bass, trout, and panfish. The lakes are easily accessible from Charleston and provide excellent fishing throughout the year.

4. Fishing Seasons in Charleston

Understanding the best times to fish in Charleston is crucial for maximizing your success on the water. Each species has its peak season, and the weather can significantly impact fishing conditions.

4.1 Spring

Spring is an exciting time for fishing in Charleston as the waters start to warm up, and many species become more active. This season is ideal for:

• Spring Chinook Salmon: One of the most anticipated seasons, spring Chinook can be found in both the Coos River and offshore. The fishing peaks from March to June.
• Rockfish and Lingcod: As the weather improves, rockfish and lingcod become more accessible. These species can be caught from both boats and the shore.

4.2 Summer

Summer is the prime fishing season in Charleston, with the warm weather and calm seas creating perfect conditions.

• Coho Salmon: The summer months are the peak season for Coho salmon in the Pacific waters off Charleston. Trolling with spoons or baitfish is highly effective during this time.
• Halibut: June through August is the best time for halibut fishing. These fish are often found in deeper waters, so a sturdy rod and reel setup are necessary.
• Bass and Trout: Tenmile Lakes is bustling with activity in the summer, with bass and trout readily biting. Early mornings and late evenings are the best times to fish.

4.3 Fall

Fall is another excellent time for fishing in Charleston, especially for salmon enthusiasts.

• Fall Chinook Salmon: The fall run of Chinook salmon is a major event, with these large fish returning to the rivers to spawn. The Coos River and Coquille River are hot spots during this season.
• Crabbing: Fall is also an ideal time for crabbing in Charleston, as the cooler waters encourage Dungeness crabs to move closer to shore.

4.4 Winter

Winter fishing in Charleston is all about steelhead and crab.

• Steelhead: Winter steelhead fishing is a popular activity, particularly in the Coos River and Coquille River. These fish are known for their strong fight and are typically caught using drift fishing or plunking techniques.
• Crabbing: Winter is prime crabbing season in Charleston. The Charleston Marina and nearby estuaries are great places to drop your pots and traps.

5. Fishing Regulations and Licenses

Fishing in Charleston requires adherence to Oregon’s fishing regulations, which are designed to protect the fish populations and ensure sustainable fishing practices.

5.1 Licensing Requirements

All anglers in Oregon, including those fishing in Charleston, must have a valid fishing license. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) offers different types of licenses depending on your residency status, age, and the type of fishing you plan to do. Here are the basics:

• Resident and Non-Resident Licenses: Oregon offers both resident and non-resident fishing licenses. Residents pay a lower fee, but non-residents are welcome to fish with the appropriate license.
• Annual, Multi-Day, and Daily Licenses: Anglers can choose from annual, multi-day, or daily licenses depending on the duration of their stay and fishing plans.
• Combined Angling Tags: For those targeting specific species like salmon and steelhead, a combined angling tag is required in addition to your standard fishing license.

5.2 Regulations to Follow

Fishing regulations in Oregon are updated regularly to reflect current conditions and to protect fish populations. Anglers should always check the latest regulations before heading out. Key regulations include:

• Bag Limits: Oregon has strict bag limits for different species. For example, there’s a daily limit on the number of salmon and steelhead you can catch and keep.
• Size Limits: Certain species, like halibut and sturgeon, have minimum and maximum size limits to ensure that only mature fish are harvested.
• Seasonal Restrictions: Some areas and species have closed seasons or specific timeframes when fishing is prohibited. This is particularly important for species like salmon, which have critical spawning periods.

6. Fishing Gear and Equipment

Choosing the right gear is essential for a successful fishing trip in Charleston. The type of fish you’re targeting, the fishing method, and the location all influence the gear you’ll need.

6.1 Rod and Reel Selection

• Saltwater Fishing: For ocean fishing, a sturdy rod and reel combo designed to handle large, powerful fish is necessary. For salmon and halibut, a heavy-action rod with a high-capacity reel is recommended. If you’re targeting rockfish and lingcod, a medium to heavy-action rod will suffice.
• Freshwater Fishing: For freshwater species like trout, bass, and steelhead, a medium-action spinning rod is usually sufficient. Fly fishing for trout and steelhead is also popular, requiring a specialized fly rod and reel.

6.2 Tackle and Bait

• Lures and Bait: The choice of lures and bait depends on the species you’re targeting. For salmon, herring, and spoons are popular choices, while jigs and swimbaits work well for rockfish and lingcod. Live bait, like nightcrawlers and minnows, is effective for freshwater species.
• Terminal Tackle: Don’t forget to pack a variety of hooks, sinkers, and swivels to match your fishing style. Leaders and line strength should be chosen based on the size and power of the fish you’re targeting.

6.3 Safety Equipment

Fishing in Charleston, especially on the open ocean, requires proper safety gear. Always have life jackets, a first aid kit, a VHF radio, and navigation equipment if you’re heading out on a boat. For shore and river fishing, waders and non-slip boots are essential for staying safe and dry.

7. Charter Services and Guided Tours

For those new to the area or looking to maximize their chances of a successful trip, charter services and guided fishing tours are an excellent option.

7.1 Benefits of Hiring a Charter

• Local Knowledge: Charter captains and guides have extensive knowledge of the local waters and fish behavior, increasing your chances of a great catch.
• Equipment Provided: Most charters provide all the necessary fishing gear, bait, and tackle, which is ideal for visitors who don’t have their own equipment.
• Stress-Free Experience: A charter service handles all the logistics, including navigating the waters, finding the best fishing spots, and adhering to regulations, allowing you to focus on fishing.

7.2 Popular Charter Services in Charleston

• Charleston Fishing Charters: Specializing in ocean fishing for salmon, halibut, and bottom fish, this service offers both half-day and full-day trips.
• Pacific Charter Services: Known for their knowledgeable guides and excellent customer service, they offer a range of fishing experiences, including crabbing and whale watching.

8. Family-Friendly Fishing Activities

Charleston is a fantastic destination for family fishing trips. The variety of fishing opportunities and the availability of kid-friendly locations make it easy to introduce children to the joys of fishing.

8.1 Crabbing and Clamming

Crabbing and clamming are popular family activities in Charleston. The Charleston Marina has a crabbing dock, and nearby estuaries like the South Slough offer excellent clamming. These activities are fun and educational, teaching kids about marine life and sustainability.

8.2 Fishing from the Shore

Shore fishing is a low-stress way to get kids involved in fishing. Locations like Sunset Bay State Park and the beaches near Cape Arago State Park are safe and accessible, with plenty of space for children to cast their lines.

9. Local Accommodations and Amenities

After a long day of fishing, you'll need a comfortable place to rest. Charleston offers a range of accommodations, from cozy cottages to full-service RV parks.

9.1 Lodging Options

• Charleston Harbor Inn: Located near the marina, this inn offers comfortable rooms with easy access to fishing charters and local restaurants.
• Sunset Bay State Park Campground: For a more rustic experience, this campground offers tent and RV sites close to the fishing action.

9.2 Dining and Seafood Markets

Charleston is known for its fresh seafood. After your fishing trip, enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants or purchase your catch at a seafood market to cook back at your lodging.

• Local Restaurants: Try the clam chowder or fish and chips at one of Charleston's waterfront restaurants, where you can enjoy views of the harbor.
• Seafood Markets: If you prefer to cook your catch, visit a local seafood market for fresh fish, crab, and other local delicacies.

10. Conclusion

Fishing in Charleston, Oregon, offers a unique and rewarding experience for anglers of all levels. With its diverse fishing opportunities, stunning natural beauty, and rich local culture, Charleston is a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about fishing. Whether you’re casting your line from the shore, exploring the deep waters of the Pacific, or enjoying a peaceful day on a river, Charleston provides an unforgettable fishing adventure.