The Ultimate Guide to Crabbing on the Oregon Coast: Embrace the Adventure
Oregon holds a wealth of natural treasures, one of the most rewarding experiences being crabbing on the wonderfully unpredictable Oregon Coast. Tasting fresh off the boat Oregon Dungeness Crab is something that everyone should cross off their bucket list!
Preparing for Your Crabbing Adventure
Before heading out, you have a couple of things to take care of. Grab your gear from any Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, or load up on the essentials at Englund Marine in Astoria or Newport or Fisherman’s Marine and Outdoor in Oregon City and Portland. If you’re new to crabbing, locals recommend getting a crab gauge, crab pots, a tide book, and quality bait like raw chicken, since crabs have a thing for it.
And of course, every Oregonian will tell you to check the weather. The coastal weather changes in a heartbeat, suddenly shifting from sun-kissed skies to petulant thunderstorms.
Securing a Shellfish License
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, every crabber needs a shellfish license. These are available from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife at several locations, including Tillamook and Lincoln City. Residents and nonresidents can purchase a shellfish license, but if you’re under 12 years old, you get to join in the fun for free.
Choosing Your Crabbing Location
The beauty of the Oregon Coast is that there’s a plethora of places for a memorable crabbing excursion. The popular Tillamook Bay near Garibaldi is a notable hotspot, teeming with Dungeness and Red Rock Crabs. The boat rental facilities make it an easy stop for both newbie and seasoned crabbers.
Just be cautious of the tourist-packed areas; locals stay clear of them to find serene and undisturbed spots. If you’re eyeing a quiet place, look no further than Nehalem Bay near Manzanita. It demands a little more effort to reach, but the rewards are magnificent.
Knowing Your Catch: Types of Crabs in Oregon
Be aware that different crabs have different regulations, so get to know your catch! Dungeness Crab, with their white-tip claws, is the prize all crabbers seek on the Oregon coast, notorious for its sweet and delicate meat. Red Rock Crabs, smaller yet feistier, are also common in Oregon waters, but aren’t as valued due to their lesser meat content.
A Local’s Secrets to Successful Crabbing
Seasoned Oregonians will tell you that crabbing is best during the slack tide, the precious moments when the tides shift from high to low, around an hour before or after a tide change.
The crab pots should be dropped in the water, with the lure inside, and left for at least 45 minutes, depending on the tide. An average catch should yield at least 12 legal-sized crabs, if the crab gods are smiling your way!
The Etiquette of Crabbing
As with any activity that engages with nature, there’s an etiquette to crabbing that locals abide by. Respect for the mure comes first, always avoid taking too many crabs and release the females back as they’re essential for the reproductive cycle.
And remember, an essential part of the crabbing culture in Oregon is sharing stories. So, don’t hesitate to engage with other crabbers!
After the Catch: Cook and Feast
The sweetest part of the crabbing journey is invariably the feast that comes after. Many local crabbers love to cook their catch on the spot. Some public docks like in Newport have even equipped themselves with public cooking facilities. If you’re not prepared to cook, the South Beach Fish Market is a gem locals swear by where they will prepare your catch for an unforgettable meal.
Closing Thoughts
With every crabbing adventure along the Oregon Coast, remember, it’s not about how many you catch, but the joy of feel the spray of the ocean, the thrill of drawing that crab pot, and the promise of a succulent seafood feast! The shared laughter and jubilant tales of each crabbing expedition make every outing an enriching journey.
So why wait? Layer up, pack a picnic, and head out to one of the many amiable towns along our coast. Experience firsthand the delight that is crabbing in Oregon. It is an unforgettable journey that intertwines adventure, nature, and delicious delicacies. With the Oregon coastal breeze in your hair and the promise of fresh crab in your pot, every day can be a good day in the Beaver State. Remember, in Oregon, you’re not just a visitor or a tourist, consider yourself one of us, sharing our love for this beautiful coastline and everything it offers. Happy crabbing!