Charleston Oregon Deep Sea Fishing Charters - What to Expect

Charleston, Oregon, a stone's throw from Coos Bay, is a genuine working fishing port that offers some of the best deep-sea fishing opportunities on the Oregon Coast. Forget the tourist traps; this is where serious anglers come to test their skills and fill their freezers. At Pacific Charter Services, we're proud to call Charleston home, and Captain Curt Shoults, with his Master 100 Ton credential and years of local knowledge, is ready to guide you to an unforgettable fishing trip.

Charleston: Oregon's Hidden Fishing Port

Located just west of Coos Bay, Charleston is easily accessible and boasts a rich maritime history. The Charleston Marina Complex, operated by the Port of Coos Bay, is the third largest fishing hub in Oregon, a testament to the area's abundant marine life. The marina features over 400 moorage slips, making it a bustling center of activity year-round. The Charleston Boat Basin, located a short 0.3 miles north of Charleston, is the heart of the fishing operations, serving both commercial and sport fishermen.

The marina offers a wealth of amenities to support fishing and boating activities. A six-lane boat launch ensures smooth access to the water, while restrooms, showers, and fish cleaning stations make for a comfortable and convenient experience. A commercial-grade ice plant keeps your catch fresh, and a repair facility capable of handling vessels up to 300 tons and 90 feet long ensures that boats are always in top condition. You'll find everything you need here, from tackle and marine supplies to fuel and pump-out services. Public docks at the marina also provide easy access for crabbing, a popular activity in the area.

Charleston's location provides easy access to a variety of fishing environments. You can venture out into the open ocean for deep-sea fishing, explore the bays and estuary for calmer waters, or head up the rivers for salmon runs. This variety makes Charleston a year-round destination for fishing, crabbing, and clamming. Several charter companies operate out of the Charleston Marina, including Adventure Charter Fishing, Betty Kay Charters, Coos Bay Charters, and of course, Pacific Charter Services, each offering specialized fishing trips.

For those looking to stay awhile, the Charleston Marina RV Park offers a full array of amenities, including RV hookups, restrooms/showers, a laundromat, and a recreation room. Tent spaces and yurts are also available year-round, making Charleston an ideal base for your Oregon Coast fishing adventure.

Types of Deep Sea Fishing Trips Available with Pacific Charter Services

At Pacific Charter Services, we offer a range of deep-sea fishing trips tailored to different interests and skill levels. Captain Curt's extensive knowledge of the local waters ensures that you'll have the best possible chance of landing your target species. With a maximum of six passengers per trip, you'll enjoy a semi-private experience with plenty of personalized attention.

Deep Water Lingcod & Rockfish: This is our most popular trip, targeting the abundant lingcod and rockfish that inhabit the deep waters off the Oregon Coast. For $225 per person, you'll spend 5-6 hours on the water, fishing with quality gear and expert guidance. We know the best spots to find these bottom-dwelling species, and we'll teach you the techniques to hook them. This trip is a great option for both beginners and experienced anglers.
Offshore Rockfish (Long-Leader): For $250 per person, this 5-6 hour trip takes you further offshore to target the largest rockfish on the Oregon Coast. We use an ODFW-approved long-leader method that allows us to specifically target species like yellowtail, canary, and bocaccio rockfish. These fish can grow to impressive sizes, providing a real challenge for anglers. This trip is ideal for those looking for a more specialized and rewarding rockfish experience. Note that Canary Rockfish are a prohibited species, so any caught must be handled carefully and released immediately.
Ocean Crabbing: This is a great option for families and those looking for a more relaxed fishing experience. For $100 per person, we provide everything you need to catch Dungeness crab, including pots, bait, and instruction. We'll set the pots in productive areas and then check them periodically throughout the trip. This is a fun and easy way to enjoy the Oregon Coast and take home a delicious meal.
Tuna: This is a full-day trip for serious anglers who want to target albacore tuna. For $400 per person, you'll spend 8-10 hours offshore, trolling for these fast-swimming predators. Tuna fishing requires specialized gear and techniques, and Captain Curt has the knowledge and experience to put you on the fish. Be prepared for a long day and some hard work, but the reward of landing a tuna is well worth the effort.
Halibut: This is another full-day trip for anglers seeking a trophy fish. For $350 per person, you'll spend 8-10 hours targeting halibut, one of the largest and most prized fish in the Pacific Northwest. Halibut fishing requires patience and skill, but with Captain Curt's guidance, you'll have a good chance of landing a keeper. Check current ODFW regulations for season dates and size limits.

What a Typical Charter Day Looks Like

A typical charter day with Pacific Charter Services starts early in the morning at the Charleston Marina. We recommend arriving about 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time to allow for check-in and a brief safety briefing. Captain Curt will go over the day's plan, explain the fishing techniques we'll be using, and answer any questions you may have.

Once everyone is ready, we'll head out of the marina and into the open ocean. The time it takes to reach the fishing grounds will vary depending on the target species and the location of the fish. During the ride, you can enjoy the scenic views of the Oregon Coast and keep an eye out for wildlife, such as whales, seals, and seabirds.

Once we reach the fishing grounds, Captain Curt will position the boat and provide instructions on how to use the gear and techniques. Whether we're bottom fishing for rockfish and lingcod, trolling for tuna, or setting crab pots, you'll have plenty of opportunities to hook into some fish. Captain Curt and his crew will be on hand to provide assistance and answer any questions you may have.

Throughout the day, we'll monitor the fishing conditions and move to different locations if necessary to maximize our chances of success. We'll also keep an eye on the weather and sea conditions to ensure your safety and comfort. Captain Curt's priority is always the safety of his passengers, as demonstrated by a recent review praising him for turning back in rough seas.

As the day winds down, we'll head back to the Charleston Marina. Once we arrive, we'll unload the fish and take them to the fish cleaning station. We offer fish cleaning and packaging services for a small fee, or you can clean your own fish if you prefer. You'll then be able to take your catch home and enjoy a delicious meal of fresh Oregon seafood.

What's Included and What to Bring

When you book a charter with Pacific Charter Services, we provide all the necessary gear and equipment, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. Captain Curt even makes his own custom jigs, which have proven to be highly effective in the local waters. We also provide all necessary safety equipment, such as life jackets and flares.

You will need to obtain an Oregon fishing license before your trip. If you are fishing for Salmon, Steelhead, or Sturgeon, you'll also need a Combined Angling Tag. Licenses can be purchased online through the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) website. Make sure to check current ODFW regulations for any updates or changes to fishing rules and seasons.

As for what to bring, we recommend dressing in layers, as the weather on the Oregon Coast can be unpredictable. A waterproof jacket is essential, as is sun protection, including sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen. Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes, and bring motion sickness medication if you are prone to seasickness. It's also a good idea to bring snacks and water, even if some refreshments are provided. Finally, bring a cooler with ice if you plan to keep your catch.

Don't forget your camera! You'll want to capture the stunning scenery and your impressive catches.

How to Choose the Right Trip

Choosing the right fishing trip depends on your experience level, target species, budget, and the time of year. If you're a beginner, we recommend starting with a half-day bottom fishing trip for rockfish and lingcod. These trips are relatively short and easy, and they provide a good introduction to deep-sea fishing. If you're an experienced angler looking for a challenge, consider a full-day tuna or halibut trip. These trips require more skill and stamina, but they offer the chance to land a trophy fish.

If you have a specific species in mind, such as salmon or tuna, choose a charter that specializes in that type of fishing. Keep in mind that some species are seasonal, so check with us to see what's currently biting. Also, consider your budget when choosing a trip. Half-day trips are generally less expensive than full-day trips, and some charters offer discounts for groups or families.

Regardless of which trip you choose, be sure to read customer reviews and inquire about the charter's services and safety measures. Pacific Charter Services consistently receives 5-star reviews, with customers praising our professionalism, clean boat, custom jigs, and safety-first mentality.

Booking Your Charleston Fishing Charter

Booking your Charleston fishing charter with Pacific Charter Services is easy. You can call Captain Curt directly at 541-378-3040 to discuss your options and book your trip. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability. You can also inquire about booking through our website, although phone calls are the most direct way to get personalized recommendations.

We accommodate groups of up to six passengers, providing a semi-private experience with plenty of personalized attention. A deposit is required to secure your booking, and the remaining balance is due on the day of the trip. We accept cash, checks, and credit cards.

We understand that plans can change, so we offer a flexible cancellation policy. If you need to cancel your trip, please let us know as soon as possible. We'll do our best to reschedule your trip or provide a refund, depending on the circumstances.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to fish the productive waters of Charleston, Oregon, with Captain Curt Shoults and Pacific Charter Services. Contact us today to book your unforgettable fishing trip!

Ready to book your deep sea fishing charter in Charleston, Oregon? Call Captain Curt Shoults at 541-378-3040 or visit our contact page to inquire about availability and reserve your spot today!