BROOKINGS, Ore. (April 27, 2025) – Fishing enthusiasts are gearing up for a highly anticipated season along the California-Oregon border, as Point St. George Reef reopens to sport fishing on May 1. "When fishing re-opens near the lighthouse May 1, wide-open fishing is expected," said a representative for Brookings Fishing Charters. This reef is known for its vibrant marine life, including giant lingcod and rockfish, and is often praised as some of the best saltwater fishing in the lower 48 states.
The reopening of Point St. George Reef coincides with the start of the Pacific halibut season, which also begins on May 1. Anglers are looking forward to reeling in halibut as they migrate closer to the shoreline to feed. "During the peak season, the Brookings Fishing Charters fleet enjoys the well-earned reputation for the highest halibut catch rates out of Brookings," noted a Brookings Fishing Charters representative. The halibut fishing season runs through to October 31, creating ample opportunities for anglers.
On May 16, the ocean salmon season kicks off, allowing for anglers to catch both wild and hatchery king salmon until June 6. Following that, a summer-long coho salmon season will run until August 24. "Expectations are high, as the ocean abundance forecast for Columbia River hatchery coho is more than half a million fish," said a local fishing analyst. Known as silver salmon, these fish swim by Brookings each summer, traveling back to their spawning rivers.
While waiting for these major openers, the Brookings Fishing Charters crew has been busy targeting spring chinook salmon on the Rogue River. "This nice springer was caught last week with Capt. Rye," shared Captain Rye, showcasing the successful efforts of the team.
As anglers prepare for the expected bounty, current opportunities remain bright. Lingcod fishing has been thriving on local half-day charters out of Brookings. "During calm weather days, limits of rockfish and lingcod have been common," a member of the Brookings Fishing Charters crew mentioned. This season has already shown improvement, with high catch rates for lingcod and quality rockfish.
Quality lingcod are a daily catch, especially near Point St. George Reef, where larger fish prevail. "The big lingcod are the main target at the lighthouse," said one of the charter captains. Fish over 40 pounds are routinely caught, and the region boasts an impressive variety of rockfish species. The reef is home to trophy-size canary, vermilion, black, copper, widow, tiger, blue, and yellowtail rockfish. However, anglers are reminded that yelloweye and quillback rockfish are protected and must be released.
Fishing trips to the lighthouse and Point St. George Reef, undertaken by boats such as the Miss Brooke and Kraken, generally span eight hours. The captains utilize effective techniques and knowledge of the local waters to ensure a successful outing, leveraging the unique underwater structures that provide prime habitats for larger fish.
On the halibut front, while the opener is expected to yield catches, the prime period peaks from mid-June through September. "The halibut spawn in deep waters during winter and migrate into shallower areas to feed in spring and summer," explained a local fishing expert. During the early part of May, halibut are generally found in depths of 300 to 500 feet, and as summer progresses, anglers can expect more fish to enter shallower waters, improving catch rates significantly. The daily limit is two halibut, offering the potential for excellent catches by July.
Overall, the iconic coastal waters of Brookings are set to deliver an exciting fishing season. With the reopening of coveted fishing grounds just around the corner, anticipation continues to build among local anglers and charters alike. The spring and summer months promise to deliver fruitful opportunities for both seasoned professionals and casual fishermen looking to make the most of the sea’s bounty.
