Ocean Shores Fishing: Everything You Need to Know
Ocean Shores sits on the Pacific coast where the Grays Harbor channel meets the open ocean — making it one of the best fishing destinations in Washington State. Whether you’re surf fishing for perch, casting from the jetty for salmon, or wading into the tidal flats for Dungeness crab, Ocean Shores offers year-round opportunities for anglers of all skill levels.
Types of Fishing in Ocean Shores
Surf Fishing
The wide, hard-packed beach at Ocean Shores is ideal for surf fishing. The most popular target species is redtail surfperch, which feed actively in the wave wash from spring through fall. You’ll find them in the wave troughs running parallel to the beach — look for areas where waves break twice, indicating a depression where perch like to hold.
- Pile perch — near rocky structures and jetty base
- Staghorn sculpin — common bottom feeder in the surf
- Dungeness crab — caught with ring nets off the jetty
- Sand shrimp — excellent bait collected at low tide
Jetty Fishing
The North Jetty at Ocean Shores is one of the most productive fishing spots on the Washington coast. It extends into the mouth of Grays Harbor and attracts a wide variety of species throughout the year. Species caught from the jetty include Coho and Chinook salmon during summer and fall runs, striped seaperch year-round near the rocks, greenling around the jetty structure, cabezon (large bottom-dwelling rockfish), and black rockfish.
Freshwater and Bay Fishing
The lakes and sloughs within Ocean Shores city limits offer excellent freshwater fishing, especially for families. Duck Lake and the network of canals throughout the city hold bass, catfish, perch, and seasonal salmon. Duck Lake is popular with float tubers and kayak anglers targeting largemouth bass and yellow perch. The canals connecting the lakes to Grays Harbor also see periodic salmon runs in late summer and fall.
Best Fishing Seasons
Spring (Mar–May): Prime surfperch season and early salmon returns to the jetty. Summer (Jun–Aug): Peak salmon, rockfish, and Dungeness crab season — the busiest time for charter boats. Fall (Sep–Nov): Coho salmon runs are strong through Grays Harbor; surfperch continue feeding well. Winter (Dec–Feb): Quieter but still productive for perch, sculpin, and crab from the jetty.
Fishing Licenses and Regulations
All anglers 15 and older need a valid Washington State fishing license to fish in Ocean Shores. Licenses are available online through the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) or at local sporting goods stores. Key points: salmon seasons and bag limits vary by year — always check current WDFW regulations. Dungeness crab requires a separate shellfish license with a daily limit typically of 6 males (6¼” minimum carapace width). Razor clams require a separate license and have WDFW-regulated open seasons.
Fishing Charters from Ocean Shores
For offshore fishing — halibut, bottomfish, or deeper salmon runs — several charter services operate out of the Ocean Shores Marina and nearby Westport (about 20 minutes south). Westport is one of Washington’s premier sport fishing ports, with full-day and half-day trips available for Pacific halibut, Chinook and coho salmon, albacore tuna (late summer), and bottomfish including rockfish and lingcod.
Tips for First-Time Anglers
- Fish the tides: Surf perch feed most actively 1–2 hours before and after high tide. Check the tide chart before heading out.
- Sand shrimp are gold: Collect them from the beach at low tide — the best surf perch bait and completely free.
- Watch the birds: Feeding seabirds and diving terns often indicate baitfish schools below.
- Dress in layers: Even on warm days the ocean breeze is chilling. Bring waterproof waders for surf fishing.
- Check local reports: WDFW and local Facebook fishing groups post regular updates on what’s biting.
Plan Your Ocean Shores Fishing Trip
Ocean Shores is an ideal base for a Washington coast fishing trip. With beachfront hotels steps from the surf, family-friendly lakes right in town, and the legendary North Jetty just minutes away, you’ll have everything you need for a productive day on the water. Browse our lodging options and activities to plan your complete Ocean Shores getaway.
