Crab closure continues: Ocean sport, commercial Dungeness

Ocean sport crabbing remains closed
By Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife

NEWPORT – With the commercial Dungeness crab season delayed until at least Dec. 15, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife reminds recreational crabbers the ocean is closed to them also. Recreational harvest of Dungeness crab in Oregon’s bays and estuaries remains open. “Sport crabbing in the ocean is delayed along with the commercial season,” said Justin Ainsworth, ODFW shellfish biologist. “We wanted to remind people of the delay because it’s pretty nice out there right now and weather forecasts are good into next week.”

The ocean commercial Dungeness crab season on the Oregon coast normally opens on Dec. 1, but can be delayed to ensure a high-quality product for consumers. Testing in November showed that crab in the majority of test areas coast wide did not meet minimum quality criteria. Fishery managers in Oregon, Washington and California decided to delay the opening at least until Dec. 15 to allow time for the crabs to fill out with more meat.

About the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife: ODFW’s mission is to protect and enhance Oregon’s fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations. The Department‘s policies are set by the Fish and Wildlife Commission. ODFW is headquartered in Salem and works through a regional management structure that allows for fish and wildlife management at the local level.
ODFW’s Marine Resources Program manages Oregon’s commercial and sport saltwater fisheries and has stewardship over our state’s marine environment.

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