Fishing

Fishing opportunities at Siletz Bay National Wildlife Refuge are centered along the lower Siletz River and Millport Slough. Anglers can access bank fishing from the Alder Island Nature Trail, an easy half-mile trail that follows the Siletz River and Millport Slough.

The lower Siletz River, which borders the refuge, is one of the most popular fishing areas on Oregon's central coast. Shore anglers can fish riverbanks and tidal reaches adjacent to the refuge, while boaters and paddlers can access additional waters in the Siletz Bay estuary where open to public use.

What Can You Fish For?

The Siletz Bay estuary and lower Siletz River support a variety of popular sport fish, including:

• Chinook salmon (spring and fall runs)
• Coho salmon
• Steelhead trout
• Coastal cutthroat trout
• Surfperch (seasonally in the bay)

Best Times to Fish

Spring (May to July)

Spring Chinook salmon begin moving through the estuary and lower river in May. Anglers may also encounter steelhead and coastal cutthroat trout during this period.

Summer (June to August)

Summer offers opportunities for steelhead and cutthroat trout. Surfperch fishing in the bay can also be productive, especially around changing tides.

Fall (September to November)

Fall is the most popular fishing season on the refuge. Fall Chinook salmon return to the Siletz River in large numbers, and coho salmon enter the system with autumn rains. This is generally the best time of year for salmon fishing.

Tide Tips

In the estuary, fishing success is often linked to tidal movement. Many anglers plan outings around incoming tides and tide changes, when salmon and other fish are actively moving through the bay and lower river.

Regulations

All anglers must possess applicable Oregon fishing licenses and follow current Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations, including seasons, harvest limits, and gear restrictions. Before fishing, check the latest regulations to ensure compliance.

Fishing Highlights at Siletz Bay NWR

• Best access: Alder Island Nature Trail bank fishing area
• Top species: Chinook salmon, coho salmon, steelhead, cutthroat trout, surfperch
• Best salmon fishing: September through November
• Best trout and steelhead fishing: Spring through summer
• Hours: Sunrise to sunset
• Remember: Follow all current Oregon fishing regulations and refuge rules.