Netarts Bay Perch Fishing
Discover the best tips, gear, and seasons for Netarts Bay Perch Fishing. Learn from local insights, expert tricks, and tide patterns to reel in more perch!
Introduction to Netarts Bay Perch Fishing
Netarts Bay, nestled along Oregon's breathtaking coast, is a hidden gem for perch fishing enthusiasts. This shallow estuary offers a peaceful and productive fishing experience, far from the crowds of bigger harbors. Whether you're a local angler or a visitor eager to dip your line, Netarts Bay promises a rewarding trip.
Perch fishing in Netarts Bay combines stunning views with the thrill of hooking hard-fighting surfperch. The bay’s ecosystem is teeming with life, from seagrass beds to sandy flats, creating an ideal habitat for several species of perch. Plus, the relaxed atmosphere and easy shoreline access make it a favorite among families and seasoned fishers alike.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything from the best fishing spots and tides to what bait works best and how to stay safe. Let’s dive in!
Best Time of Year for Perch Fishing in Netarts Bay
Netarts Bay offers perch fishing nearly year-round, but some months are better than others. Here's what you need to know.
Seasonal Patterns
Spring through early fall (March to October) is the prime window for perch fishing here. Warmer waters encourage perch to move closer to shore, making them easier to reach without a boat.
Monthly Fishing Calendar Overview
| Month | Fishing Quality | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| March–April | Fair | Water warming, perch begin moving inshore |
| May–June | Excellent | Peak action begins |
| July–August | Outstanding | Prime time – ideal tides, great weather |
| September | Very Good | Slightly less action but still consistent |
| October | Good | Cooler water but fish still biting |
| November–Feb | Poor | Cold, windy, fewer fish active |
Plan your trip accordingly, especially if you’re looking for quantity and size.
Ideal Tides and Weather Conditions
How Tides Affect Perch Behavior
Tides play a crucial role in perch activity. As the tide comes in, perch follow the rising water to feed on small crustaceans and baitfish. Incoming and high tides are typically the most productive.
Reading Tide Charts
Apps like Tides Near Me or NOAA Tide Predictions are your best tools. Look for days with strong but safe tidal movement—ideally 1.5 to 2.5 feet in difference.
Best Times to Fish
- 2 hours before high tide through 1 hour after high tide
- Early mornings or late evenings during these tide windows are best
Avoid fishing at dead low tide or when the water is slack—fish tend to be less active during these times.
Top Fishing Spots in Netarts Bay
Netarts Bay isn’t huge, but it has a few well-kept secrets when it comes to hotspots.
North Jetty vs South Jetty
- North Jetty: Offers deeper water and stronger current, ideal for targeting bigger perch.
- South Jetty: Easier access, great for beginners or kids. Tends to have less wave action.
Hidden Inlet Locations
Try exploring the shallow inlets along the eastern edge of the bay during high tide. These areas trap baitfish, drawing in hungry perch.
Public Access Points
- Netarts Bay Boat Ramp (even if fishing from shore)
- Netarts Spit Trailhead area
- Crab Avenue W and 2nd Street
Each of these offers excellent access without requiring a boat.
Popular Types of Perch in Netarts Bay
The bay hosts a variety of perch species, making each fishing trip exciting and unpredictable.
Redtail Surfperch
By far the most common and sought-after, redtail surfperch are known for their aggressive strikes and strong fight. They often gather in schools, so once you find one, more are likely nearby.
- Color: Reddish-pink with dark vertical bars
- Size: 10–17 inches
- Habitat: Sandy bottom areas and along the surf zone
Pile Perch
These are bulkier than redtails and often hang out near rocky structures or pilings.
- Color: Silver body with darker back and a noticeable dark spot at the base of the pectoral fin
- Habitat: Around docks, pilings, or jetties
Striped Seaperch
Identified by their blue and red stripes, these perch prefer areas with eelgrass and rocky crevices.
- Color: Blue and pink horizontal stripes along the side
- Habitat: Seagrass beds and jetty crevices
Knowing which perch you’re targeting can help you choose the right bait and location.
Best Bait and Lures for Perch Fishing
Success in Netarts Bay perch fishing often comes down to what you're offering on your hook.
Live Bait vs Artificial Lures
- Live Bait: Sand shrimp, mole crabs (sand fleas), and small pieces of clam are top performers.
- Artificial Lures: Soft plastics such as Gulp! Sandworms or grubs on a Carolina rig can be highly effective.
Recommended Rigs and Setup
- Carolina Rig: Ideal for covering ground and allowing natural bait presentation.
- Hi-Low Rig: Great for vertical fishing near jetties or pilings.
- Drop Shot: Useful for pinpointing perch in deeper holes or channels.
Bring multiple rig types to adapt to changing conditions.
Recommended Gear and Tackle Setup
Rods, Reels & Line Strength
- Rod: 7–9 ft medium-action spinning rod
- Reel: 3000-4000 size spinning reel
- Line: 10–15 lb monofilament or braid
Terminal Tackle Essentials
- Hooks: Size 4–6 baitholder or circle hooks
- Sinkers: 1–2 oz pyramid or egg sinkers
- Leader: 12–18 inch fluorocarbon leader for clarity and stealth
Make sure your setup is light enough to feel bites but strong enough to handle multiple fish at once.
Shore Fishing vs Boat Fishing in Netarts Bay
Each approach offers unique advantages, depending on your goals and gear.
Shore Fishing
- Pros: Simple, accessible, great for families
- Cons: Limited reach during low tide
Boat Fishing
- Pros: Access to deeper channels and remote spots
- Cons: Requires launching permits and more gear
Launch Points for Small Boats
- Netarts Bay Boat Ramp (easy access)
- Schooner Creek Marina (kayaks or canoes)
Both methods are productive; choose what fits your budget and comfort level.
Regulations and Licensing Requirements
Oregon Fishing License Rules
You’ll need a valid Oregon Angling License, available online or at local tackle shops. Residents and non-residents have different pricing.
- One-day licenses are available for visitors.
- Children under 12 fish for free.
Catch Limits and Size Regulations
- Surfperch Bag Limit: 15 per day (including redtail, pile, and striped)
- Size Limit: No minimum, but most anglers release perch under 8 inches
Always check the ODFW regulations for the latest updates.
Safety Tips for Fishing in Netarts Bay
Safety is essential, especially with quick-changing coastal conditions.
Tidal Changes and Sneaker Waves
- Always check tide charts.
- Stay alert near jetties and surf zones where waves can be unpredictable.
Fishing with Kids or Beginners
- Choose flatter areas like the south jetty.
- Use barbless hooks and lighter gear for a safer experience.
Wear life jackets, even when fishing from shore if you're near deep or moving water.
Local Fishing Culture and Community
Netarts Bay has a strong and friendly fishing culture.
Annual Fishing Events
- Tillamook County Surfperch Derby
- Oregon Coast Anglers Meetups
Tips from Local Anglers
Chatting with locals at the boat ramp or tackle shop can provide valuable tips on what’s biting and where.
Family-Friendly Activities Near Netarts Bay
Even if fishing isn’t your family's thing, there’s plenty nearby to enjoy.
- Netarts Spit: Perfect for hikes and beachcombing
- Cape Lookout State Park: Stunning views, whale watching, and trails
- Crabbing: Grab a crab pot and catch dinner from the docks
Fishing can be the main event, but it’s only part of what makes this place special.
Nearby Amenities and Lodging Options
Campgrounds and RV Parks
- Cape Lookout State Park Campground: Beachside campsites and showers
- Netarts Bay Garden RV Resort: Family-friendly with full hookups
Local Hotels and Cabins
- Netarts Surf Inn: Cozy rooms with bay views
- The Schooner Restaurant & Lounge: Offers dining and nearby lodging
Plan ahead during the summer as spots fill quickly.
Sustainable Fishing Practices
Let’s help keep Netarts Bay beautiful for future generations.
Respecting Marine Ecosystems
- Avoid trampling seagrass beds
- Take only what you’ll eat
Catch-and-Release Tips
- Use wet hands to handle fish
- Remove hooks gently and release quickly
Ethical fishing ensures the bay stays healthy and vibrant.
Essential Tips for Beginners
Fishing Netarts Bay is beginner-friendly—but a few smart moves go a long way.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring tide charts
- Using oversized hooks
- Fishing during slack tide
Best Spots to Learn the Ropes
- South Jetty at high tide
- Near the boat ramp dock
- Calm inlets along the east shore
Practice patience and keep your setup simple—you’ll be catching perch in no time.
Expert Tips to Maximize Your Catch
Want to fish like a pro? Try these advanced tactics.
Time of Day Strategies
- Fish 30–60 minutes before sunrise or sunset for peak bites
- Cloudy days can also trigger feeding frenzies
Matching the Hatch Techniques
Use bait and lures that mimic local forage—like mole crabs or sandworms—to improve strike rates.
FAQs about Netarts Bay Perch Fishing
Q1: Do I need a boat to fish in Netarts Bay?
No, many productive spots are accessible from shore, especially near the jetties and inlets.
Q2: What’s the best bait for perch in Netarts Bay?
Sand shrimp, mole crabs, and Gulp! sandworms are highly effective.
Q3: Are there any dangerous areas to avoid?
Be cautious around jetties during high surf and swift tidal currents near channels.
Q4: Can kids fish at Netarts Bay?
Absolutely! It’s a great spot for families, especially at the south jetty or boat ramp dock.
Q5: How early should I arrive for the best fishing?
Aim to arrive at least 1–2 hours before the peak high tide for setup and scouting.
Q6: Are there restrooms or amenities near the fishing spots?
Yes, several public access points have restrooms, especially at the boat ramp and state park.
Conclusion
Netarts Bay perch fishing is more than just a hobby—it’s a way to connect with Oregon’s stunning coastal ecosystem. With the right gear, timing, and respect for the water, you can enjoy an unforgettable experience catching redtail, pile, and striped perch in one of the most scenic spots on the West Coast.
So pack your tackle box, check those tide charts, and head down to Netarts Bay. The perch are waiting.