Long time yaker, first time bay!

Hey everyone!
I've been kayak fishing for years, but mostly freshwater.
I totally realize fishing the bays and ocean is a completely different game than lakes and rivers.
I believe I have all the necessary tackle and safety gear, have done considerable research, but am in need of someone to go out with to learn the ropes in real life.
Ultimately, I want to chase salmon and sturgeon, but would be more than happy to go get some rockfish.
Really just need to learn the ins and outs of the bays.
 
Is there anyone out there I can tag along with and learn a few things? 

What Bay are you wanting to fish?
Depending on where you are you will want to pay attention to the tides. Power boat traffic can be heavy and winds can get tricky on occasion.

I'm in Salem, so I was thinking Tillamook, Depoe or Nehalem.
I know tides, wind n traffic are all factors, and that's precisely why I'm looking for someone experienced to go with. Any info is much appreciated! Thanks so much!

Patience, grasshopper.  This is Oregon not Southern California, we don't get all that many days with the right conditions for ocean fishing and this year fishing opportunities have been more rare than in most years.

Have you practiced self rescue?  Do you know how to read Magic Seaweed forecasts?  The NOAA Marine forecasts?  Have you searched the forum or asked about the effects of wind and currents in the locations you've mentioned?  Have  you read this: https://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/index.php?page=38?  Wrapping your head around all of that is an integral part of preparing to launch into the ocean.

Keep an eye open for posts by folks who announce they're going fishing and ask them about joining in.

Safety first, indeed!
And yes, I have no doubt a day (at least) of safety training, and going over gear, is in order.
I should have prefaced with that!
I do look at NOAA pretty regularly, and have read that link, and now will check out the Magic Seaweed, thank you for the tip.
I have spent a good deal of time on the ocean, just rarely in a kayak. My father's best friend, who used to take us fishing, once said said something, that has always stuck with me:
"The ocean is trying to kill you 100% of the time. When conditions are good, it's just trying to lull you into a false sense of security!"

I never once considered taking my kayak out on the salt by myself, without propper traing, which is precisely why I  am now on NWKA, and could not be happier to have found such a wonderful resource, with such considerate people.

I have had my share of sketchy experiences on the ocean, from landing zodiaks through high surf, to gale force condtions on 5 day commercial boats, far out to sea. More than enough to give me healthy fear, respect, awe and admiration of the sea.

Thanks to everyone here for their advice, concern and willingness to help a new comer! I hope to someday return your kindness!   

 u have all the gear? radio? keep watching here for invites when conditions are good.  usually somebody will post up they are going out of depoe(radio is nearly a must have here!) or p.c.

I have a drysuit, life vest, radio, gps, knife, whistle, flag, lights....
Can you suggest any other essentail gear?
I do need to get familiar with the radio and gps....
Thanks so much!

A real honest to god compass the map reading style  are what I keep in my pocket. I can post up a picture next time I’m at the shop.

I still have my old boy scout compass, I'll add it to my gear.
Great suggestion!

My 1st time was with mojo, Tillamook Bay. If he goes out I would recommend heading out with him.

It sounds to me like you may be about ready to start this fun, amazing, sketchy, and awesome sport of ocean kayaking!
I live down by Lebanon and I love going out of Depoe Bay!  I like it better than Pacific City, and it is closer. There is good fishing to be had almost as soon as you clear the mouth. I have caught keeper Lingcod within 100 yards of the mouth as I waited for some rude power boaters who ignored my call out and the harbor master.
That beings said, I don't know that I will be going out on the ocean again this year. Fall just gets really busy and the weather starts to turn. I haven't fully given up, but not very likely.
I am hoping to hit Yaquina Bay next week as I will be at the coast for a family event. I will let you know.
Are you available mid week, or just weekends?

Hello Drifter, and thanks for the message!
My schedule is pretty open, please do keep me posted!

I’m going to hit Nehalem tomorrow (Friday, Oct 2).

Planning to put in at Wheeler around 7:30, and troll towards the bay until the tide shifts, at which point I’ll ride it back up past the 101 bridge.  Going to primarily troll spinners behind 360 flashers.

You’re welcome to tag along for part or all of the day.  I’ll probably be on the water for 10 hours or so.

Thanks so much for the invite, but I just can't make it tomorrow.
Please do hit me up in the future, I'd love to go.
Best of luck to you!