Brock Johnson’s Guide Service
HomeTrips & RatesGalleryReviewsFishing ReportsTarget SpeciesMeet the Captain

Learn More

My Trips

WorldClass Pink Salmon Fishing In Astoria Oregon

Chasing Pink Salmon in the Deep Waters off Astoria

5.0

star_icon

2 Reviews

  • 5star_icon100%
  • 4star_icon0%
  • 3star_icon0%
  • 2star_icon0%
  • 1star_icon0%
Pink Salmon fishing with Deep Sea Trolling in Astoria

The boat gently rocked as we cast our lines into the Columbia River. Sunlight glinted off the water. A cool breeze carried the scent of salt and pine. Suddenly my rod bent double. A flash of silver broke the surface. The pink salmon fought hard. Its scales shimmered as it leapt. We netted the fish carefully. Its firm flesh promised a delicious meal. We admired its beauty before releasing it back to the depths. The day stretched ahead full of promise. More salmon awaited us in these bountiful waters.

Trip lead by the Captain

Brock Johnson
Brock Johnson
Brock Johnson
Astoria, Oregon
  • Fishing the Columbia River Majestic Waters
Book A TripCopy LinkYoutubeFacebookInstagramX

Summary

Journey to the coastal waters of Astoria Oregon for an unforgettable pink salmon fishing adventure. As you set out from the historic port city known for its maritime heritage youll be greeted by the mighty Columbia River meeting the vast Pacific Ocean. The rugged beauty of the Oregon coast serves as a stunning backdrop for your pursuit of Oncorhynchus gorbuscha commonly known as pink or humpback salmon. These silvery fish with distinctive humps on their backs during spawning season offer an exciting challenge for anglers. Typically weighing between 3 to 5 pounds pink salmon provide a perfect target for light tackle fishing. As you navigate the waters keep an eye out for the telltale signs of salmon schools fin flashes or jumping fish. The best time to target these ocean-bright pinks is usually from July to September when they return to coastal waters. Trolling with small lures or flies near the surface often yields success. Feel the thrill as your line tightens and your rod bends with the fight of a feisty pink salmon. Breathe in the salty air and take in the panoramic views of the coastline as you reel in your catch. Whether youre a seasoned angler or a novice the abundant pink salmon runs near Astoria offer a rewarding fishing experience. After a day on the water return to port with your fresh catch ready to be prepared for a delicious meal showcasing the flavors of the Pacific Northwest

Fishing for Pink Salmon off the Oregon Coast

The rugged coastline of Astoria Oregon provides an ideal backdrop for pursuing Oncorhynchus Gorbuscha also known as pink salmon. With its rocky shores and turbulent waters the Pacific Ocean here offers prime habitat for these prized fish. Anglers can set out on charter boats to access the deeper waters where schools of pink salmon congregate during their seasonal runs. The cool misty air and sound of crashing waves create an atmospheric fishing experience unique to the Pacific Northwest.

Techniques for Catching Pink Salmon

When targeting pink salmon in the deep waters off Astoria anglers often use light tackle and small lures that mimic the fish's natural prey. Trolling with flashy spoons or hoochies behind downriggers is a popular and effective method. Some fishermen prefer casting with light spinning gear using small jigs tipped with bait. The key is to locate schools of salmon as they move through feeding on smaller baitfish in the nutrient-rich coastal waters.

Enjoying Your Fresh Catch

After a successful day on the water nothing beats the satisfaction of preparing your own freshly caught pink salmon. These fish have a delicate flavor and light pink flesh that lends itself well to grilling cedar plank salmon or smoking. Many local restaurants in Astoria also specialize in preparing the bounty of the sea allowing anglers to savor their catch prepared by expert chefs. Paired with local wines or craft beers a meal of fresh pink salmon caps off the perfect Oregon fishing adventure.

Specie explored in this image

Pink Salmon
Pink Salmon
Species Name: Pink Salmon
Species Family: Salmonidae
Species Order: Salmoniformes
Habitat: Onshore, Lake, River
Weight: 3 - 5 pounds
Length: 20" - 30"
The Oncorhynchus Gorbuscha, commonly known as Pink Salmon, is a remarkable species that captivates anglers and nature enthusiasts alike. These fish are renowned for their distinctive humpback appearance during spawning season, which gives them their other nickname, 'humpies'. Pink salmon are the smallest of the Pacific salmon species, typically ranging from 20 to 30 inches in length and weighing between 3 to 5 pounds. Despite their size, they are feisty fighters when hooked, providing an exciting challenge for fishermen. Pink salmon have a unique two-year life cycle, spending 18 months at sea before returning to their natal rivers to spawn. During their ocean phase, they feed voraciously on small crustaceans, which gives their flesh its characteristic pink color. As they approach their spawning grounds, males develop a pronounced hump and hooked jaw, while females retain a more streamlined form. These fish play a crucial role in the ecosystem, providing food for a variety of predators and enriching river systems with nutrients when they die after spawning. For anglers, pink salmon offer an excellent opportunity for both sport fishing and a delicious catch, with their meat being prized for its mild flavor and versatility in cooking.

More specie you can explore on this trip

Chinook Salmon

Chinook Salmon

Other customer memories from this trip

The fishing charter boat "Sea Breeze" is a 32-foot center console vessel perfect for offshore and nearshore trips. It features a sturdy fiberglass hull designed to handle various sea conditions. The spacious deck provides ample room for up to six anglers to fish comfortably. Equipped with state-of-the-art navigation and fish-finding technology, including GPS, radar, and sonar, the Sea Breeze ensures a productive day on the water. Multiple rod holders line the gunwales, and a large live well keeps bait fresh. The boat boasts a powerful outboard motor for swift travel to prime fishing spots. A shaded area offers respite from the sun, while an onboard restroom ensures comfort during longer excursions. Safety equipment includes life jackets, flares, and a marine radio. The experienced captain knows the local waters well and is dedicated to providing an enjoyable and successful fishing experience for all aboard.

Brock Johnson’s Guide Service

Follow Us

Instagram

Navigate

Home

Trips & Rates

Gallery

Reviews

Fishing Reports

Target Species

Meet the Captain

FAQ

Contact Us

FEATURED

Fishing License

Oregon Fishing

Drop Us A line

Sturgeon Tussle

Salmon Splash

River Catch

Columbia Salmon

River Salmon

Brock Johnson’s Guide Service

Brock Johnson’s Guide Service offers guided Salmon, Sturgeon, and Crab fishing on the Columbia River near Astoria, Oregon. Fish from a 25’ Rogue boat with all gear included and expert support from Captain Brock.

More about Brock Johnson’s Guide Service

© Copyright 2025. All rights reserved.

Powered by Guidesly

Privacy Policy

Sitemap