Croaker

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

Croaker, also known as spot, are popular saltwater fish found in various bodies of water along the coasts of the United States. These fish are commonly targeted by anglers in the Northwest region, specifically in Oregon and Washington. Here are some notable locations for croaker fishing in these states:
Oregon: The coastal areas of Oregon, including the Columbia River estuary, Tillamook Bay, and the coastal jetties, offer excellent opportunities for catching croaker. Other productive spots include Depoe Bay, Newport, and Winchester Bay.
Washington: Croaker can be found in several locations along the Washington coast, such as the Columbia River mouth, Grays Harbor, and Willapa Bay. Other popular fishing spots include Westport, Ilwaco, and the jetties near Tacoma and Seattle.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Croaker are bottom-dwelling fish that prefer sandy or muddy bottoms with some structure. They are commonly found near estuaries, inlets, jetties, and along the shoreline. Croaker often gather in schools and can be found in both shallow and deeper water, depending on the tide and feeding patterns.

PATTERNS

SPRING

During spring, croaker migrate from deeper waters into estuaries and bays for spawning. They can be found in shallow areas with sandy bottoms or around structure such as jetties or pilings. Fishing with fresh bait such as shrimp, clams, or sandworms can be effective during this season.

SUMMER

In the summer months, croaker can be found in both shallow and deeper waters. They often gather near submerged structures, channels, or areas with a sandy/muddy bottom. Fishing during the evening or early morning hours when the water is cooler can increase your chances of success. Using cut bait, bloodworms, or soft plastics can be productive during this time.

FALL

Fall is a great time to target croaker as they continue to feed before their migration. They can be found in similar areas as in the summer, such as estuaries, channels, and near structure. Fishing with a variety of bait such as peeler crabs, sand fleas, or shrimp can yield good results during this season.

WINTER

In winter, croaker activity slows down, and they may move to deeper channels or areas with warmer water. They can still be caught using fresh bait, such as bloodworms or cut bait, near channels or structure. Fishing during the outgoing tide or using scent attractants can be beneficial when targeting croaker in colder months.

When targeting croaker, anglers have several bait options to choose from. Fresh bait is often the most effective. Popular choices include shrimp, clams, sandworms, bloodworms, peeler crabs, and small pieces of cut bait. Rigging these baits on a high-low rig or a fish finder rig allows them to be presented near the bottom where croaker feed.
LURES/ARTIFICIAL BAITS
Croaker can also be enticed to bite artificial lures. Small jigs in natural colors, such as white, chartreuse, or pink, can be effective when bounced along the bottom. Soft plastic baits in shrimp or baitfish imitations can also work well. Retrieve them slowly and close to the bottom to mimic the movements of natural prey.

Drifting

How: Drifting for Croaker involves using a boat to drift along the bottom while using a bait or lure to entice the fish to bite.
Gear: Rods: 6-8ft medium action. Reels: Spinning reels. Line: 8-20 lb test monofilament or braided line. Leaders: 8-20 lb test fluorocarbon or wire. Hooks: 1/0-3/0 circle hooks. Tackle/Lures: Soft plastic lures, squid, or blood worms.

Bottom Fishing

How: Bottom fishing for croaker involves using a bait to catch croaker near the bottom.
Gear: Rods: 6-8ft medium action. Reels: Spinning reels with a low gear ratio. Line: 10-20 lb test monofilament or braided line. Leaders: 10-20 lb test fluorocarbon or wire. Hooks: 2/0-4/0 circle hooks. Tackle/Lures: Croaker rig, worms, or blood bait

Surf Fishing

How: Surf fishing for croaker involves casting a bait such as worms or blood bait from the shore to catch croaker in the surf zone
Gear: Rods: 10-12ft medium heavy action. Reels: Spinning reels with a low gear ratio. Line: 20-30 lb test monofilament or braided line. Leaders: 20-30 lb test fluorocarbon or wire. Hooks: 2/0-4/0 circle hooks. Tackle/Lures: Croaker rig, worms, or blood bait.