Dory Boat Fishing in Pacific City, Oregon
Dory boat fishing is a rare and iconic fishing tradition in Pacific City, Oregon. Launched directly from the beach at Cape Kiwanda, Pacific City dories head straight into the Pacific Ocean to fish some of Oregon’s most productive waters. Visitors can experience this tradition firsthand by booking a guided dory fishing charter with a licensed local captain.
How to Go Dory Boat Fishing in Pacific City
The only way for visitors to experience dory fishing is by booking a charter in advance. These guided trips take place aboard traditional dory boats operated by experienced local fishermen. Charters may target:
- Chinook and Coho salmon
- Dungeness crab (seasonal)
- Albacore tuna (summer months)
- Rockfish
Because the number of dory boats is limited and conditions dictate availability, charters often fill quickly, especially during summer. Advance reservations are strongly recommended.
What Makes Pacific City Dories Unique
Pacific City dories are open-hulled, flat-bottomed boats designed to launch through surf. Before heading out, the boat is pushed into the waves until it’s deep enough to start the outboard motor — a precise maneuver requiring timing and skill. Dories are built to carry heavy loads and become more stable once weighted. Operating them safely takes experience, local knowledge, and respect for the ocean.
A Strong Safety Record
Pacific City’s dory fleet is widely respected for its safety history. Since the late 1800s, only six known dorymen have lost their lives at sea — an extraordinary record given the conditions they work in. Dorymen are also known to assist other vessels and are often among the first to respond to distress calls offshore.
Pacific City Dorymen’s Association
The Pacific City Dorymen’s Association (PCDA) is a nonprofit dedicated to:
- Protecting public beach access for dory launches
- Promoting boating safety and environmental stewardship
- Supporting community programs and education
The association contributes to scholarships, fishery enhancement, local services, and preservation of dory history. PCDA and Linfield University are documenting the history of the Pacific City Dory Fleet. For more information on the history, see this Linfield digital library.
Pacific City Dory & Fishing Charters
Several local operators offer dory and other fishing charters out of Pacific City. Availability varies by season and ocean conditions.
A sampling of charter operators includes:
- Pacific City Fishing
- Haystack Fishing
- OAR Angling
- Eagle Charters Dory Fishing
- Rocha’s Dory Charter
- Grant Rilette Fishing
- Sea Bliss Fishing
- Connect Outfitters
Contact operators directly for current conditions, target species, and booking details.
Not ready to head out on the water? Visit during Dory Days, held the third weekend in July, for a front-row seat to this unique fishing tradition. This designated Oregon Traditional Heritage Event features a parade, live music, family activities, a classic fish fry, and dory boat displays. It’s also the best opportunity to see a traditional double-ender up close and watch the fleet gather on the beach.
Know Before You Go
- Trips are weather-and ocean-dependent
- Safety briefings are required and important
- Dress in layers and expect variable conditions
- Always follow your captain’s guidance
Dory boat fishing in Pacific City is more than a charter — it’s a chance to experience one of Oregon’s most distinctive coastal traditions, guided by people who know these waters best.
