Recreational crabbing using pot gear to open Nov. 15 in Willapa Bay

October 31, 2018

Action: Recreational crabbing using pot gear will open Nov. 15 in Willapa Bay, two weeks earlier than the usual Dec. 1 opening for this area.

Effective date: Nov. 15, 2018

Species affected: Dungeness crab

Location: Marine Area 2-1, Willapa Bay

Reason for action: The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission approved the earlier opening for the recreational crab season using pot gear in Willapa Bay at a meeting Oct. 15. The earlier opening for pot gear will provide some additional opportunity for recreational crabbers prior to the opening of the commercial Dungeness crab fishery in this area.

Information contact: Heather Reed, Intergovernmental Ocean Policy, 360-902-2487.

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.