Marine toxins prompt expansion of crab-fishing closure on coast

August 5, 2015

Action: Marine Areas 1 and 2 are closed to recreational Dungeness crab fishing.

Effective Dates: Immediately until further notice.

Species affected: Dungeness crab

Location: Those portions of Marine Areas 1 and 2 from the Columbia River to the Queets River, including bays and estuaries inside the Columbia River, Willapa Bay and Grays Harbor.

Reason for action: Ongoing testing by the Washington Department of Health shows levels of domoic acid are above the action level in Dungeness crab.

Other information: Testing will continue. These areas will remain closed to sport (and commercial) harvest of Dungeness crab until the Washington Department of Health has certified that Dungeness crab are safe for human consumption.

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.