Striped Bass

While Depoe Bay isn't widely known as a Striper hotspot, dedicated anglers can find success targeting them in the Siletz River estuary and near the coastline. Your best bet is to fish the lower reaches of the Siletz, especially during the fall and early winter when salmon are spawning. Stripers will often congregate near the mouths of smaller creeks and sloughs where the salmon are staging. Focus on areas with structure, such as submerged logs and rock piles. Casting swimbaits, crankbaits, or even drifting live herring can be effective. Be aware that the Siletz can be affected by heavy rainfall, which can make the water murky and the fishing more challenging. Check local river conditions before heading out. Access to the Siletz River is available at several boat launches along Highway 229.