Recreational winter crab seasons to close in Marine Areas 8-1 and 8-2

October 18, 2019

Action: Closes recreational crab harvest.

Effective date: October 24, 2019.

Species affected: Dungeness, red rock, and Tanner crab.

Location: Marine Areas 8-1 and 8-2.

Reason for action: The State quota share has been exceeded in these areas.

Additional information: Marine Area 4 east of the Bonilla-Tatoosh line, Marine Area 5, Marine Area 6, Marine Area 7, and Marine Area 9 except those waters between the Hood Canal Bridge to a line connecting Foulweather Bluff to Olele Point, will remain open for winter crabbing. Crabbing will is allowed seven days a week through December 31 in these areas.

The daily limits in all open Marine Areas is: Five crabs per day for Dungeness crabs, min. size 6 1/4", males only, and in hardshell condition. Six crabs per day for Red Rock crabs, min. size 5", either sex. Six crabs per day for Tanner crabs, min. size 4 1/2", either sex, and in hardshell condition.

All Dungeness crabs retained during this time must be recorded on a winter catch record card.

Information contact: Don Velasquez, Mill Creek Regional Office, (425) 775-1311 ext. 112.

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.