South coast of Washington closed to crab fishing

June 17, 2015

Action: Those portions of Marine Areas 1 and 2 between the Washington/Oregon border and Point Chehalis, including the Columbia River and Willapa Bay are closed to recreational Dungeness crab fishing.

Effective Dates: Immediately until further notice.

Species affected: Dungeness crab

Location: Those portions of Marine Areas 1 and 2 between the Washington Oregon border and Point Chehalis, including the Columbia River and Willapa Bay.

Reason for action: Testing by the Washington Department of Health shows levels of domoic acid are above the action level in Dungeness crab.

Other information: Testing will continue. These areas will remain closed to sport (and commercial) harvest of Dungeness crab until the Washington Department of Health has certified that Dungeness crab are safe for human consumption.

Information Contact: Dan Ayres. 360-249-4628 (ext. 209)

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.