Crab lovers get ready: starting from Nov. 4, Marine Area 11 (Tacoma-Vashon Island) is slated to open its waters for the winter crabbing season, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) announced on Nov. 1. Driven by the sustainable management of the region's marine life, the decision was made after analyzing summer recreational catch estimates and projecting the winter season hauls. This move will allow hobbyists to lay their traps and partake in the cherished Pacific Northwest tradition through the end of December.
Don Velasquez, the WDFW crustacean biologist, shared with the public that "Marine Area 11 has enough pounds remaining to open a partial winter recreational crabbing season; however, Marine Area 10 will not reopen," information sourced from the WDFW website underlined that this strategic approach is essential in maintaining the balance of crab populations and preserving the local ecosystem. The crabbing opportunities span multiple areas extending from Neah Bay and Sekiu to the East Juan de Fuca Strait and the San Juan Islands, all the way to the northerly reach of Hood Canal, these regions have seen crabbing activities since Oct. 1, with the promise of marine adventures every day until year's end.
According to the WDFW announcement, crabbing within these designated zones is permissible one hour before sunrise, continuing until one hour after sunset, as long as the activity is conducted from a vessel. Unfortunately, several areas including Marine Area 10 (Seattle/Bremerton), part of Marine Area 13 (South Puget Sound), and Marine Area 12 (Hood Canal) south of Ayock Point, will remain off-limits, in a vigilant effort to curb overharvesting and support regeneration.
When it comes to the details, WDFW has set specific requirements for the crab catch: five Dungeness crabs per day, provided they are male and measure at least 6 1/4 inches across the carapace is the limit for recreational fishers, while six red rock crabs and six Tanner crabs of either sex can also be kept daily, each species having their respective minimum size thresholds. Those partaking in the crabbing season who are 15 and older need to have a valid Washington fishing license, which ranges from a day permit to an annual pass. Additionally, a specialized Puget Sound Dungeness crab endorsement is mandatory for all crab enthusiasts aiming to capture this particular species within the inlet's waters.
Compliance is key; hence, WDFW emphasizes the necessity for all crabbers to immediately record their Dungeness catch on winter catch record cards, remain accountable until the end of December, and to submit these records by Feb.1, 2025. To support best practices and familiarize fishers with the different species, as well as rules and regulations, WDFW offers a crabber knowledge quiz available through their website, encouraging participants to stay informed and act responsibly within the marine habitat they so avidly enjoy.
