Depoe Bay’s Rich Maritime History

How a Tiny Harbor Became a Big Name in Oregon Chartering

Nestled along the rugged basalt cliffs of the Central Oregon Coast, Depoe Bay has grown from a quiet fishing village into one of Oregon’s most iconic coastal destinations. Known today as the “Whale Watching Capital of the Oregon Coast,” this small harbor town has built its legacy on its rich marine culture and adventurous spirit. At the heart of this transformation is Tradewinds Charters, a cornerstone business that has helped shape the town’s identity for nearly nine decades.

A Harbor Unlike Any Other

Long before visitors flocked to the seawall to watch gray whales breach, Depoe Bay was a humble fishing village with fewer than 500 residents. Its defining feature—a small, naturally protected harbor carved into volcanic rock—made it an ideal launching point for both commercial and recreational fishing. Though modest in size, the harbor offered reliable shelter and immediate access to the productive waters just offshore.

Even in its earliest days, the people of Depoe Bay saw its potential. Locals invested in attractions like aquariums and wildlife museums to draw visitors, setting the stage for the town’s eventual rise as a marine tourism hub. Its evolution from fishing port to vacation destination was slow and steady, shaped by the sea and the entrepreneurial spirit of those who called it home.

The Start of Charter Fishing on the Oregon Coast

In 1938, Portland mariner Stan Allyn launched what would become one of the Oregon Coast’s first charter fishing companies. He arrived in Depoe Bay after exploring the coastline in an 18-foot skiff powered by a single-piston engine. Impressed by the protected harbor and thriving fish populations, he saw immediate promise in the location.

Allyn started with small vessels but expanded the business in 1941 with the addition of the Kingfisher, a 50-foot wooden boat built in Janzen Beach. The Kingfisher served in the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II before returning to civilian use as the pride of the Depoe Bay fleet. It symbolized not only the growth of Allyn’s business, but the beginning of an industry that would help define the town for generations.

A Landmark Presence on the Coast

Today, Tradewinds Charters continues Allyn’s legacy as one of the oldest continuously operating charter companies in Oregon. Its sky-blue ticket booth, perched at the top of the stairway leading down to the harbor, is now a familiar and welcoming sight along Highway 101. Though the building wasn’t always painted in its signature color, it has become a recognizable symbol of ocean adventure and coastal tradition.

Over the years, Tradewinds has introduced thousands of visitors to the wonders of the Pacific—offering deep-sea fishing, whale watching, and scenic cruises throughout the year. The company serves as the booking agency for five independently owned boats, each captained by highly experienced professionals with deep knowledge of local waters.

Modern Innovation with Historic Roots

Now in its 87th season, Tradewinds Charters is operated by co-owners Tadd Mick, Noelie Achen, and Chris Schaffner, who have brought thoughtful updates to the business while preserving its original mission. Innovations like online booking, and expanded merchandise have made the customer experience more seamless than ever.

A highlight of the current fleet is the Kingfisher—a modern vessel that honors the legacy of the original boat from the 1940s. While today’s Kingfisher features advanced equipment and safety upgrades, it also represents the enduring tradition of high-quality charter service that the company was built on.

Tradewinds has also added conveniences like fish storage and vacuum-packing services for anglers, along with electric reels to assist guests on halibut trips. These enhancements make fishing more accessible and enjoyable, especially for families and first-time visitors.

A Year-Round Ocean Experience

Depoe Bay’s location provides an unmatched opportunity for marine exploration year-round. Whale watching tours are offered throughout the year, with the best viewing season from spring through fall when resident gray whales can be seen feeding close to shore. These calm, scenic cruises have become one of the company’s most popular offerings.

Fishing excursions are available nearly year-round as well. Bottom fishing and crabbing trips are offered regularly, while halibut season peaks in May and June. Later in the summer, Tradewinds shifts focus to salmon fishing, targeting both Chinook and Coho runs.

Safety and quality are the company’s highest priorities. Trips are only launched when ocean conditions are suitable, and the captains are known for their professionalism, knowledge, and friendly guidance. Whether it’s a first-time family adventure or a seasoned angler’s return visit, every trip is designed to be memorable, successful, and safe.

Giving Back to the Ocean and the Community

Tradewinds Charters is deeply committed to ocean conservation and community support. Guests booking excursions have the option to support two important nonprofit initiatives via an opt-out donation at checkout:

• Oregon Kelp Alliance (ORKA): Dedicated to restoring and preserving Oregon’s kelp forests, which are critical habitats for fish and marine life.
• Free Fishing Poles for Kids – Oregon Coast: A community program that distributes fishing poles to children, helping connect the next generation to the joy of the ocean.

These efforts reflect the values that have guided Tradewinds for decades: stewardship, community, and a passion for making the ocean accessible to everyone.

A Small Harbor with a Big Legacy

From its early days as a quiet fishing village to its present role as a destination for whale watching and sport fishing, Depoe Bay has always been defined by its relationship with the sea. And since 1938, Tradewinds Charters has stood at the center of that story—welcoming guests, innovating with purpose, and carrying on the spirit of adventure that put Depoe Bay on the map.