Entire coast of Washington open to crab fishing

September 29, 2015

Action: Those areas previously closed to recreational Dungeness crab fishing are now re-opened. This includes the portions of Marine Areas 1 and 2 between the Washington/Oregon border and Point Chehalis, including the Columbia River and Willapa Bay.

Effective Dates: September 25 until further notice.

Species affected: Dungeness Crab

Location: The entire WA coast - including those portions of Marine Areas 1 and 2 between the Washington Oregon border and Point Chehalis, including the Columbia River and Willapa Bay in now open.

Reason for action: Testing by the Washington Department of Health shows levels of domoic acid have dropped below the action level in Dungeness crab.

Other information: Testing will continue. The use of crab pots is prohibited on the coast through Nov. 30, except in the Columbia River estuary, where pots are allowed year-round. Elsewhere along the coast, crabbers can use other gear, such as ring nets.

Information Contact: Dan Ayres. 360-249-4628 (ext. 209)

Fishers must have a current Washington fishing license, appropriate to the fishery. Check the WDFW "Fishing in Washington" rules pamphlet for details on definitions and regulations. Fishing rules are subject to change. Visit wdfw.wa.gov/fishing-hotlines to find a list of mobile, web, print, or customer service phone options for the latest rule information.

Request this information in an alternative format or language at wdfw.wa.gov/accessibility/requests-accommodation, 833-885-1012, TTY (711), or CivilRightsTeam@dfw.wa.gov.