Kid-Friendly Salmon Adventure in Gold Beach
Shared Trip
Inshore Fishing
Eighthour salmon fishing adventure targeting Chinook and Coho speciesPrivate inshore trip aboard equipped 21foot vessel with specialized tackleKidfriendly charter accommodating up to four guests with professional guidance
Want to get your kids hooked on salmon fishing? Captain Matthew Weems runs one of the top-rated kid-friendly fishing charters out of Gold Beach, and his 8-hour salmon trips are perfect for introducing young anglers to the sport. This isn't just another fishing trip - it's designed from the ground up with kids in mind, from the child-friendly tackle to the patient teaching approach that gets kids excited about being on the water. You'll be targeting both Chinook and Coho salmon in Oregon's renowned coastal waters, and the best part? Your kids get to keep and clean their catch, making this a full learning experience they'll remember for years.
This private charter accommodates up to 4 guests aboard the 21-foot Fun Float, which comes loaded with everything you need for a successful day. Captain Weems keeps the boat equipped with a fighting chair that's perfect for landing bigger fish, plus a livewell to keep your catch fresh. The GPS and fish finder help locate the salmon, but don't worry about bringing tackle - the boat comes stocked with kid-friendly gear that's easier for smaller hands to manage. You'll launch from Oceanside Drive and spend the day working the inshore waters where salmon congregate before heading up the Rogue River. The captain knows these waters like the back of his hand and adjusts the fishing strategy based on what the salmon are doing that day. Just remember to grab your Oregon state fishing licenses before heading out - they're required for anyone fishing, including kids.
Most of your day will be spent trolling, which is hands-down the most effective technique for salmon in these waters. Captain Weems runs a spread of downriggers and divers to get your bait down to where the salmon are holding, typically anywhere from 15 to 60 feet depending on conditions and time of year. The beauty of trolling for kids is that once the lines are set, they can relax and enjoy the ride until a fish hits. When that rod tip starts bouncing, that's when the real fun begins. The boat's fighting chair gives young anglers the leverage they need to battle these powerful fish, and Captain Weems is right there coaching them through every step of the fight. You'll be running everything from herring and anchovies to spinners and spoons, and the captain switches up the presentation based on what's working. The fish finder is constantly scanning for bait schools and salmon marks, so you're always fishing where the action is.
Chinook salmon are the king of the Pacific, and Gold Beach produces some absolute monsters. These fish can push 40 pounds or more, with most charter catches ranging from 15 to 30 pounds - plenty big enough to give kids a workout they'll never forget. Chinook hit hard and fight even harder, making long runs and deep dives that test your drag and your determination. The best part about targeting kings is their size means one fish can feed the whole family. They're most active in the early morning and late afternoon, and Captain Weems times the trips to hit these prime windows. Spring through early fall offers the most consistent action, with September and October being particularly hot for mature fish heading toward the rivers.
Coho salmon might be smaller than Chinook, but they make up for it with pure athletic ability. These silver rockets are famous for their acrobatic fights, jumping clear out of the water multiple times during a battle. Kids absolutely love the visual excitement of a Coho going airborne, and at 8 to 15 pounds, they're the perfect size for young anglers to handle. Coho are aggressive feeders and often hit lures with incredible violence, so there's no question when one grabs your bait. They school up in good numbers, so once you find them, the action can be non-stop. Peak Coho fishing runs from late summer into fall, and these fish are known for their excellent table fare with firm, flaky meat that even picky eaters enjoy.
This kid-friendly salmon charter fills up fast, especially during peak season when the fish are running thick. Captain Weems has built his reputation on creating positive fishing experiences for young anglers, and parents keep coming back year after year as their kids grow into serious fishermen. The 8-hour format gives you plenty of time on the water without overwhelming younger kids, and the private charter setup means you can go at your own pace. Keep in mind the cancellation policy - you'll want to book at least 14 days out for full flexibility, and anything less than 3 days means you're committed to the trip regardless of conditions. The best salmon fishing in Gold Beach runs from late spring through early fall, with September being a customer favorite for both species. Don't wait too long to secure your dates - the combination of kid-friendly approach and world-class salmon fishing makes this one of the most popular family charters on the Oregon coast.
The 21' Fun Float is perfect for getting your kids hooked on salmon fishing in Gold Beach's productive waters. This motorboat comes equipped with everything young anglers need - a comfortable fighting chair for battling fish, GPS and fish finder to locate the best salmon spots, plus child-friendly tackle that makes learning easy. The 150HP Evinrude provides smooth rides to prime fishing areas while the livewell keeps your Chinook and Coho salmon fresh. Air conditioning keeps everyone comfortable during those hot summer fishing sessions. Captain Matthew designed this setup specifically for families, so your kids can focus on the excitement of their first salmon catch without worrying about complicated gear.
Oncorhynchus TshawytschaKing salmon are the heavyweights of our waters, running 15-30 pounds with some bruisers pushing even bigger. These silver-sided fighters with black-spotted backs and tails love deeper water and structure along our coast. They're sensitive to light, so early morning and evening bites are prime time. What makes them special? That deep, rich orange meat is hard to beat on the dinner table, plus they'll give you a serious workout on the rod. Kings tend to hug the bottom, so we'll get your bait down deep where they're cruising. Here's a local trick: when you feel that first tap, don't set the hook right away - let them take it and start their run before you lean into them.
Oncorhynchus KisutchSilver salmon are pure adrenaline on a fishing rod. These acrobatic fighters average 8-12 pounds and love to jump - they can launch 6 feet straight up when hooked. You'll find them in our inshore waters, often near structure and drop-offs where baitfish gather. Coho have that classic silver look with dark backs and white bellies, plus they're known for putting on aerial shows that'll have your kids cheering. The meat is bright orange-red and tastes fantastic grilled or smoked. Best action happens during their runs from late spring through fall. Pro tip from years of chasing these fish: when a coho jumps, bow your rod toward them to keep tension without breaking your line. Their acrobatics are half the fun, but you want to land them too.
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