Get ready for the fishing trip of a lifetime aboard the Miss Wanda out of Newport, Oregon. This 12-hour charter puts you right where the big halibut lurk, with a chance to fill your cooler with tasty rockfish too. Whether you're looking to bond with family, have a blast with friends, or impress clients on a corporate outing, this trip delivers the goods. Our seasoned crew knows these waters like the back of their hand and we're itching to put you on some trophy fish.
We'll push off from the docks early, usually before the sun's up. That's prime time to beat the crowds and get first dibs on the best fishing spots. The Miss Wanda's a roomy vessel, so you won't be tripping over each other even when the action heats up. We provide all the top-notch gear you need - from rods and reels to bait. No experience? No problem. Our crew's always happy to show you the ropes, from baiting hooks to proper fish handling techniques. We typically run about 20-30 miles offshore where the big ones hang out. It's a full day on the water, so pack some grub and drinks to keep your energy up. Oh, and don't forget the sunscreen - that Oregon sun can be sneaky!
Halibut fishing's a whole different ballgame from your typical day on the lake. We're talking heavy tackle and deep drops - sometimes over 300 feet down. We'll use a mix of techniques, from drifting with bait to slow trolling. The key is patience. These flatties can be stubborn, but when they bite, hold on tight! It's not uncommon to hook into 50+ pounders out here. While we wait for the halibut to play nice, we often target rockfish. These tasty buggers are more active and can really fill out your catch limit. We use lighter gear for the rockfish, often jigging near the bottom. It's a nice change of pace and keeps the rods bent while we wait for the halibut to show up.
Pacific Halibut are the stars of this show. These flatfish are the heavyweights of the bottom-dwelling world, often tipping the scales at 50-100 pounds, with some true monsters pushing 300+. They're not the prettiest fish in the sea, with both eyes on one side of their flat bodies, but what they lack in looks they more than make up for in taste. Halibut meat is prized for its firm, white flesh and mild flavor. The best time to target them off Newport is typically May through October. When you hook one, be ready for a serious workout - these fish don't give up easily!
Coho Salmon, also known as Silver Salmon, might make an appearance during your trip. These feisty fish are known for their acrobatic fights and delicious, orange-pink flesh. Cohos typically range from 8-12 pounds, though larger specimens aren't uncommon. They're most abundant in our waters from July through September. Hooking into a Coho is always a thrill - they're fast, strong, and love to jump, making for an exciting battle on lighter tackle.
While we're primarily after halibut, don't overlook the rockfish. Species like Black Rockfish, Canary Rockfish, and Yellowtail Rockfish are common catches. These colorful bottom-dwellers might not give you the arm-burning fight of a halibut, but they're plentiful and make for excellent eating. Rockfish are available year-round, providing consistent action even when the halibut are being shy.
Folks who fish with us tend to get hooked themselves. It's not just about the fish (though that's a big part of it). There's something special about being out on the open water, watching the Oregon coastline fade into the distance. You might spot some wildlife - whales, seabirds, maybe even a pod of dolphins. And let's be honest, there's nothing quite like the rush when that rod doubles over and you know you're in for a fight with a big halibut. Our guests love the laid-back vibe on board, swapping fish stories and learning new tricks from our crew. Plus, at the end of the day, you're heading home with a cooler full of some of the best-eating fish in the Pacific. Can't beat that!
If you're itching to feel the pull of a monster halibut or fill your freezer with premium fish, don't wait to book this trip. Our 12-hour charters fill up fast, especially during peak season. Remember, we need a minimum of 4 people to run the trip, so it's perfect for small groups or families. And here's an insider tip - give us a call or text at 541-819-4240 before you book. We might have some sweet discounts available that aren't advertised online. Plus, we can give you the lowdown on what's biting and help you pick the best day for your adventure. So what are you waiting for? Grab your fishing buddies, clear your schedule, and get ready for a day of world-class fishing off the beautiful Oregon coast. The halibut are waiting, and trust me, you don't want to miss out on this action!
Pacific halibut are the heavyweights of our local waters. These flat giants can reach 500 pounds, though most we catch run 20-100 pounds. They're bottom-dwellers, hanging out in depths from 20 to 1000 feet. Summer's your best bet, when they move to shallower feeding grounds. Halibut put up a stubborn fight, often described as reeling in a barn door. Their firm, white meat is a prized catch, known for its mild, sweet flavor. To land one, we'll drop large baits like salmon heads or herring to the bottom. Here's a tip: once you feel a bite, give it a good 10-count before setting the hook. Halibut often mouth the bait before fully committing. Patience pays off with these big boys. The challenge of bringing one up from the depths, combined with their excellent table fare, makes halibut a bucket-list fish for many anglers.
Coho salmon, also known as silvers, are a real treat to catch off Newport. These acrobatic fighters typically run 8-12 pounds, though some can hit 30 inches and 20+ pounds. You'll find them in coastal waters and rivers, with peak season from July through October. Cohos are known for their spectacular jumps and hard runs, giving anglers an exciting challenge on lighter tackle. Their rich, orange-red meat is prized for its flavor, making them popular for both sport and the dinner table. When targeting cohos, try trolling with flashy spoons or herring in the top 30 feet of water. A local trick: use a dodger ahead of your lure to create extra flash and vibration - cohos can't resist investigating. Whether you're after the thrill of the fight or some of the best-tasting salmon around, cohos deliver on both counts.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 1
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 850