Meet Captain Zachary Shirley

Shirley Catch Guide Service is led by Captain Zachary Shirley, a lifelong Pacific Northwest angler who grew up navigating Oregon’s river systems and coastal environments. Raised in a dedicated fishing family, Captain Zach spent his childhood learning the subtle rhythms of local waterways, tracking how changing seasons, shifting tides, and daily weather patterns influence fish behavior. This lifelong immersion gave him an intuitive understanding of the region's fisheries, transforming a childhood passion into a career dedicated to sharing these waters with others.

Based out of Portland and extending to the productive coastal fisheries near Warrenton, Captain Zach specializes in targeting signature Northwest species, including prime salmon, powerful sturgeon, Dungeness crab, and rainbow trout. He excels at reading complex river conditions and adapting his strategies in real-time, ensuring that every trip is tailored to the day's specific environment. His deep-seated knowledge means he knows exactly where the fish hold and which techniques will deliver results on any given day.

Beyond his technical expertise on the water, Captain Zach is known for his welcoming, patient approach, making anglers of all skill levels feel entirely at ease. He prioritizes a relaxed and educational environment, always eager to share valuable tips, explain his chosen tactics, and help guests sharpen their own angling skills. Whether guiding a seasoned veteran or introducing a family to their very first cast, his goal is to provide a seamless, enjoyable day where guests can relax, learn, and build lasting memories.

The Boat: 26-Foot Alumaweld

Your time on the water is hosted aboard a spacious and exceptionally stable 26-foot Alumaweld, a vessel specifically engineered to handle the unique demands of Pacific Northwest waters while keeping passengers safe and comfortable. The boat accommodates up to six anglers, making it an excellent choice for families, friends, or small groups seeking a premium experience together. Fully outfitted with top-tier rods, reels, and all necessary tackle, the vessel ensures you have the right gear for the job. While guests will need to secure their Oregon fishing licenses before stepping on board, Captain Zach takes care of all the gear logistics, and any legal catches are cleaned and prepared for you to take home.