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. 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.