Grays River supports populations of coho salmon, sea-run coastal cutthroat trout, and winter-run steelhead. While the river's coho numbers are fairly low—about one hundred per year—and the cutthroat numbers are low, the steelhead are a draw for sport fishing. In addition Sturgeon are present just off the river's mouth in Grays Bay.

Grays Harbor offers excellent fresh and saltwater fishing in all seasons. Fish in the open ocean for tuna, halibut, rockfish or salmon. Drift a lazy river for steelhead, trout or salmon. Bank fish for sturgeon or trout. Fish the surf for perch. Dig razor clams or set traps for Dungeness crab. Lake fish for bass, crappie, bluegill, or trout.

Grays Harbor is a very popular small boat fishery, especially for large chinook and coho salmon. Major access points include the 28th Street Ramp, Westport, Ocean Shores, and Johns River. The protected nature of the bay allows small boats access to some exceptional salmon fishing.