John Heard Couch (/kuːtʃ/ KOOTCH;[1] February 28, 1811 – January 19, 1870) was an American sea captain and pioneer in the Oregon Country in the 19th century.

At the time, the mouth of the Columbia was considered one of the most hazardous places for navigation on earth, because of the presence of a large sand bar.

His attempt at a trading voyage was rebuffed by the Hudson's Bay Company, which controlled commerce in the Oregon Country.

Couch successfully established a general store and sent his brig home, remaining in the Oregon Country for five years.

On March 4, 1846, Couch was appointed as treasurer of the Provisional Government of Oregon after Francis Ermatinger resigned.

Later in 1848 he was convinced by a shipping firm in New York City to take command of another vessel, the Madonna, on a voyage to the Pacific Ocean.

Following his instructions, Couch stayed in Oregon City while Flanders took the vessel on short trips between Portland and San Francisco.

John Couch died on January 19, 1870, in Portland and was buried at River View Cemetery in that city.