Some Puget Sound marine areas to open for winter recreational crab fishing

October 6, 2011

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Action: 1) Open Marine Areas 4, 5, 6, 7, 8-1, 8-2 and those waters of Marine Area 9 north of a line that extends from Olele Point to Foulweather Bluff on Oct. 8, 2011 through Dec. 31, 2011 for recreational crab fishing 7 days per week.

2) Open Marine Areas 11 and 13 on Nov. 21, 2011 through Dec. 31, 2011 for recreational crab fishing 7 days per week.

Species affected: Dungeness crab

Effective dates: Oct. 8, 2011 through Dec. 31, 2011 for Marine Areas 4, 5, 6, 7, 8-1, 8-2 and those waters of Marine Area 9 north of a line that extends from Olele Point to Foulweather Bluff; and Nov. 21, 2011 through Dec. 31, 2011 for Marine Areas 11 and 13.

Location: Marine Areas 4, 5, 6, 7, 8-1, 8-2 and those waters of Marine Area 9 north of a line that extends from Olele Point to Foulweather Bluff open October 8. Marine Areas 11 and 13 open Nov. 21.

Other information: The winter recreational crab season is open 7 days per week. All other crab rules regarding gear, a daily limit of five Dungeness crab, males only, in hard-shell condition with a minimum carapace width of 6-1/4 inches remain in effect (see page 136 and 139 in the 2011/2012 Sportfishing Rules Pamphlet).

Reason for action: To provide wintertime crabbing opportunity in these Marine Areas.

Information contact: Steve Burton, Puget Sound Crab Manager, (425) 775-1311 ext 126.

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.