Crab fishing to close in most of Puget Sound

October 9, 2003

Action: The recreational crab fishery will close in all Marine Areas except 4, 5, 6 and 10, at 6:00 p.m. October 15, 2003, until further notice.

Effective date: October 15, 2003, at 6:00 p.m.

Species affected: Dungeness and red rock crab

Location: The Marine Areas 7, 9, 11, 12, and 13 will close at 6:00 pm October 15. Marine Areas 8-1 and 8-2 are currently closed.

Reason for action: Sport harvest estimates obtained by phone surveys of Catch Record Card holders show that recreational harvest in these Marine Areas in Puget Sound, exceeded target levels.

Other information: Marine Areas 4, 5, 6 and 10 will remain open until further notice. Possible increases in harvest allocations may allow for recreational opportunity during the winter months in some areas. Fishers are reminded to record their Dungeness crab catch on their catch record card immediately when crab are kept.

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. Check the WDFW Fishing hotline for the latest rule information at 360-902-2500, press 2 for recreational rules. For the Shellfish Rule Change hotline call toll free 866-880-5431.

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.