MoochinMan, it's much easier than that. You can launch at Chinook's public launch or at Ft.Canby State Park launch, both very good. You fish the Columbia River and not the ocean. It can get choppy but as always,common sence provades. As to where to go. On a chart find buoy 19,20,21 or fish just outside of Chinook, or just find all the boats--it won't be hard. I stay at Ft.Canby State Park-very clean. My friend fished yeaterday and got 6 nice big silvers between the 2 of them. Fish ON