Tillamook Bay Fishing Charter (Experienced Salmon Guide)

Tillamook Bay Fishing Guide & Fishing Charter

Tillamook Bay, Oregon is one of the most productive and scenic fishing destinations on the Oregon Coast, and it’s a place I’m proud to fish as a professional Tillamook Bay fishing guide and charter operator. With its rich salmon runs, productive crabbing grounds, and easy access to the Pacific Ocean, Tillamook Bay offers anglers a true Pacific Northwest fishing experience.

Whether you’re targeting trophy Chinook salmon, coho salmon, or looking to combine salmon fishing with crabbing, a Tillamook Bay fishing charter provides outstanding opportunities for both seasoned anglers and beginners.

World-Class Salmon Fishing in Tillamook Bay

Tillamook Bay is best known for its exceptional Chinook (king) salmon fishing, especially during the prime fall months of September and October. This period marks the peak of the fall Chinook salmon run, when large, aggressive fish flood the bay and surrounding ocean waters.

It’s not uncommon to catch 20-pound Chinook salmon in Tillamook Bay, and even larger fish are landed each season. These months offer some of the most consistent action and are ideal for anglers looking to experience the very best salmon fishing Oregon has to offer.

Rivers That Feed Tillamook Bay

Tillamook Bay is formed by the convergence of five major coastal rivers:

Wilson River
Miami River
Kilchis River
Trask River
Tillamook River

These rivers are famous for their strong salmon and steelhead runs, producing Chinook salmon, coho salmon, steelhead, and chum salmon. The nutrient-rich water flowing into the bay creates a thriving ecosystem that supports healthy fish populations year after year.

Spring Chinook Salmon Fishing – Tillamook Bay

Spring Chinook salmon are among the largest and highest-quality Chinook salmon found anywhere on the Oregon Coast, and Tillamook Bay is well known for this fishery.

Season: May through June
Bonus: Excellent time for salmon and bottom-fish combo trips

Conditions often bring calm ocean weather, making it a perfect time to fish both inside the bay and offshore. Salmon and rockfish combo trips are extremely popular during this season. Booking a knowledgeable Tillamook Bay fishing guide gives you the best chance of finding active fish and maximizing your day on the water.

Tillamook Bay Fishing Charter & Guided Trips

As an experienced Tillamook Bay fishing charter captain and fishing guide, I primarily run trips during September and October, focusing on fall Chinook and coho salmon. These months also coincide with peak crabbing season, allowing me to offer popular salmon and crab combination trips.

My goal on every charter is to provide a safe, productive, and enjoyable fishing experience while putting clients on fish. If you’re looking for a trusted Tillamook Bay fishing guide, I’m committed to showing you the most productive fishing spots the bay has to offer.

👉 Book your Tillamook Bay fishing guide today

Top Fishing Locations in Tillamook Bay

I offer guided and charter trips throughout Tillamook Bay, including some of the area’s most well-known and productive spots:

The Ghost Hole – Located near Highway 101, close to Garibaldi
The Jetties – Near the Coast Guard tower where Tillamook Bay meets the ocean

During favorable weather, we may also fish the “Bubble Zone” outside the Tillamook Bay Bar, a productive area for salmon and bottom fish. Fishing locations are selected based on weather, tides, and current fish movement to give you the best chance of success.

Boat, Gear & Techniques

Trips are run aboard my 27-foot boat, equipped for comfort and safety. Depending on conditions, we use a variety of proven techniques including. c

Trolling
Casting
Jigging

These methods allow us to effectively target salmon and bottom fish both inside the bay and just outside the bar when conditions allow.

Tillamook Bay Coho Salmon Fishing

In addition to Chinook salmon, anglers may have opportunities to retain wild coho salmon within Tillamook Bay on select days during September and October. Regulations are set by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) and may change yearly.

Anglers should always check current ODFW regulations before fishing. As of January 2025, the upcoming season regulations had not yet been finalized.

Tillamook Bay Crabbing Charters

Tillamook Bay also offers excellent Dungeness crab fishing. When ocean conditions are calm, I prefer setting crab pots offshore. For anglers who prefer staying inside the bay, Crab Harbor is a productive and sheltered option.

Best crabbing months: October and November
Limit: 12 legal-size male crabs per person (Oregon limit)

Crab and salmon combo trips are a favorite among clients looking to take home a full cooler.

Tillamook Bay Marina – Garibaldi, Oregon

The primary marina for fishing Tillamook Bay is Garibaldi Marina, located in Garibaldi, Oregon. This is the main and most convenient launch point for fishing charters on the bay and provides easy access to both bay and ocean waters.

Hotels When Fishing with a Tillamook Bay Fishing Charter or Guide

If you’re booking a Tillamook Bay fishing charter or fishing guide, staying in Garibaldi, Oregon is the most convenient option. Garibaldi is located right on Tillamook Bay and provides quick access to the marina, launch ramps, restaurants, and fishing charter meeting locations.

Some popular lodging options for anglers include:

Garibaldi Inn at the Bay
227 Garibaldi Ave., Garibaldi, OR 97118
Phone: 503-322-2552 click here

Harborview Inn & RV Park
302 S 7th St., Garibaldi, OR 97118
Phone: 503-322-3251 click here

The Hotel Garibaldi
502 Garibaldi Ave., Garibaldi, OR 97118
Phone: 503-322-3338 click here

Booking a hotel in Garibaldi allows you to maximize your fishing time and makes early morning departures for your Tillamook Bay fishing charter easy and stress-free.

Things to Do Near Tillamook Bay After Your Fishing Trip

After a successful day on the water with a Tillamook Bay fishing guide, there are plenty of great activities nearby to help you relax and enjoy the Oregon Coast.

One of my favorite nearby spots is Munson Falls, a short and scenic hike located in Tillamook State Forest. Munson Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in Oregon and is an easy drive from Tillamook Bay. It’s a perfect option if you want a peaceful walk and some great photo opportunities.

Another must-see attraction is the Tillamook Creamery (Tillamook Cheese Factory). Located in Tillamook, Oregon, this is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state. Visitors can learn how Tillamook cheese is made, watch the production process, sample a variety of cheeses, and browse the gift shop. It’s a great stop for families and a fun way to wrap up a fishing trip.

Whether you’re booking a Tillamook Bay fishing charter, planning a multi-day fishing trip, or bringing family along, Tillamook and Garibaldi offer plenty of lodging, dining, and activities to make your visit memorable.