Oregon ocean salmon sport regulations

2023 ocean salmon seasons

Find catch estimates

Ocean salmon regulations are finalized in late-April for the “salmon year” that starts on May 16 and concludes the following April. The season regulations that go into effect March 15 of each year are those that were set in April of the previous year. In April, the Pacific Fishery Management Council and Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission adopt additional salmon seasons for the new "salmon year" beginning May 16.

The recreational ocean salmon fishery in ocean waters between Cape Falcon and the Oregon/California Border is closed to retention of Chinook salmon through August.  This area is open to retention of hatchery coho that are marked with an adipose fin clip.  The severe restrictions on Chinook salmon is due to severely low forecast abundances for both Sacramento River and Klamath River fall Chinook. Limited ocean seasons that will allow for the retention of Chinook salmon between Cape Falcon and Humbug Mt. starting September 1.  Make sure to review the regulations prior to fishing.

Statewide regulations:

• Anglers fishing for salmon and all anglers fishing from boats with a salmon on board are limited to no more than 2 single point barbless hooks per line, and no more than one line per angler.
• It is unlawful to fish for or take and retain any legal species while possessing on board any species not allowed to be taken in that area at that time.
• Minimum lengths: Chinook (north of Cape Falcon) = 22 inches, Chinook (south of Cape Falcon) = 24 inches: coho = 16 inches: steelhead = 20 inches: no minimum length for pink, chum or sockeye salmon in the ocean fishery.
• Refer to the current Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations for descriptions of special marine management areas including closed areas and additional restrictions.

Other resources:

• Ocean Salmon Guide
• About your coded wire tagged salmon
• Regulatory landmark locations
• Waypoints for fathom lines and other restricted areas
• Tips for tagging fish and game