In some waters, land-locked sockeye salmon, called kokanee, have been introduced and provide much sport fishing. Warmer bodies of water contain a variety of imported species, including bass, crappie, bluegill and catfish. Sport fishing for sturgeon and walleye on the Columbia River is also on the increase. Though five species of Pacific salmon occur in Oregon, the Chinook and Coho historically have been the major catch for sport anglers. In the spring and fall, salmon move into fresh water and inland fishing begins.
Coastal bays provide excellent fishing for other saltwater fish species as well as for crab.
Clamming also draws thousands of people to the beaches and bays. The Department of Fish and Wildlife operates 34 fish hatcheries that produce millions of fish annually. Several million trout are released at six to ten inches in length, while most salmon and steelhead are released when they are about one year old and ready to migrate to the ocean. Commercial Fishing One of Oregon's first industries was the commercial fishing trade. Rich ocean and river harvests played an important role in the development of Oregon's economy and the establishment of various cities and ports.