LOCATIONS

​BODIES OF WATER

• Sea bass, a popular and highly sought-after species, can be found in the coastal waters of the Northwest region of the United States. Anglers seeking thrilling saltwater fishing experiences often target sea bass in the ocean waters off the shores of Oregon and Washington. Here are some notable locations for sea bass fishing in the region:

• Oregon: The coastal areas of Oregon, including Tillamook Bay, Coos Bay, and the reefs and jetties near Newport and Depoe Bay, offer excellent opportunities for sea bass fishing. Additionally, the productive fishing grounds around the offshore rocks and reefs attract sea bass enthusiasts.

• Washington: Washington's coastal waters, particularly the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Puget Sound, and the San Juan Islands, are known for their abundant sea bass populations. Popular fishing spots include the Tacoma Narrows, Possession Sound, and the waters around Whidbey Island.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

• Sea bass are typically found near rocky structures, kelp beds, and submerged reefs. They prefer areas with ample cover and structure where they can hide and ambush their prey. Rocky shorelines, jetties, and underwater rock formations are prime locations to target sea bass. They can be found in both shallow and deeper water, depending on the season and feeding patterns.

  
  

PATTERNS

SPRING

• During spring, sea bass become more active as the water temperature begins to rise. They move closer to shore and can be found near rocky areas, jetties, and submerged reefs. Fishing with live bait such as anchovies, sandworms, or using artificial baits that imitate small fish can be effective during this season.

SUMMER

• In the summer months, sea bass may move to deeper water or areas with cooler temperatures. They can be found near underwater structures, kelp beds, and rocky points. Fishing with jigs, swimbaits, or using cut bait such as squid or mackerel can be productive. Trolling near kelp beds or using topwater lures during low-light periods can also yield good results.

FALL

• Fall is an excellent time to target sea bass as they actively feed in preparation for winter. They may be found near rocky structures, submerged reefs, or areas with abundant baitfish. Fishing with jigs, rubber grubs, or using bait such as shrimp or sandworms can yield good results during this season.

WINTER

• In winter, sea bass may move to deeper sections of the water or seek out areas with warmer temperatures. They can be found near underwater rock formations, deep channels, or areas with structure. Fishing with heavy jigs, baited hooks, or using live bait such as herring or anchovies can be effective in enticing sea bass to bite.

Bait

• When targeting sea bass, anglers have a variety of bait options to choose from. Popular choices include anchovies, sandworms, squid, shrimp, and cut baitfish. It's important to present the bait close to the bottom, where sea bass are often found.

  
  

• Sea bass can also be caught using a variety of artificial lures. Jigs, swimbaits, and soft plastics in colors such as white, chartreuse, or olive can be effective in imitating the prey of sea bass. Casting near rocky structures, jetties, or kelp beds and using a slow, erratic retrieve can entice strikes.

Techniques

Bait Fishing

• How: Use a variety of natural baits to attract sea bass, such as squid, clams, mussels, or cut bait. Anchor your boat near rocky structures, wrecks, or artificial reefs where sea bass tend to congregate. Cast your baited hooks close to the structure and allow them to sink to the desired depth.

• Gear: Rods: Medium-light to medium spinning rods. Reels: 2000-3000 size spinning reels. Line: 10-15lb test monofilament or braided line. Hooks: Size 2-4 bait hooks. Sinkers: Egg sinkers or bank sinkers in various weights to reach the desired depth.

Artificial Lures

• How: Sea bass can be enticed by a variety of artificial lures. Use jigs, soft plastics, or metal spoons that imitate small baitfish or crustaceans. Cast your lures near underwater structures or drop-offs and vary your retrieval speed to find the most effective presentation.

• Gear: Rods: Medium to medium-light spinning rods. Reels: 3000-4000 size spinning reels. Line: 10-15lb test braided line or fluorocarbon leader. Lures: Jigs (1/2 to 1 oz), soft plastics, metal spoons, and bucktail jigs.

Fly Fishing

• How: Fly fishing for sea bass can be a thrilling experience. Look for sea bass near rocky shorelines, jetties, or submerged structures. Use baitfish or shrimp patterns that match the local forage. Make accurate casts near the structure and employ a strip-and-pause or twitching retrieve to entice sea bass to strike.

• Gear: Rods: 6-8 wt fly rods with a fast action. Reels: Large-arbor fly reels with a smooth drag system. Line: Weight-forward floating or intermediate fly lines. Leaders: 7-9ft fluorocarbon leaders with a tippet strength of 8-12lb. Flies: Clouser Minnows, shrimp patterns, crab patterns, and baitfish imitations.

Surf Fishing

• How: Surf fishing for sea bass can be productive, especially near rocky points or jetties. Use a fishfinder rig with a pyramid sinker and a bait holder hook baited with clam, squid, or cut bait. Cast your rig into the surf and let it settle on the ocean floor. Keep an eye on your rod tip for subtle nibbles indicating a sea bass bite.

• Gear: Rods: Medium to heavy surf rods. Reels: 4000-5000 size spinning reels. Line: 15-20lb test monofilament or braided line. Hooks: Size 2-4 bait hooks. Sinkers: Pyramid sinkers in various weights to hold bottom in the surf.