The Ultimate Guide to Crabbing on the Oregon Coast
In the world of Pacific Northwest delights, nothing quite matches the joy of crabbing on the astonishing Oregon Coast – a local rite of passage as authentic as cheering on the Ducks or savoring a melt-in-your-mouth Voodoo doughnut. Grab a pair of gloves and some knee-high rubber boots, it’s time to get our feet wet!
Prepping for Crabbing: Gear Up Like a Local
Starting with the basics, equip yourself with a durable crabbing rig. T&T Rod And Reel Repair in Newport may sound like an auto repair shop, but they’ll set you up with a rig that could pass muster with the oldest salts on the docks. Trust the regulars; they know their crab pots and traps. Pair this with a durable crate to keep your crabs from scurrying off, and you’ve already won half the battle.
Don’t forget, you’ll need a shellfish license to partake legally in Oregon. Fortunately, obtaining one isn’t a tall order. Any sporting goods store, including Tillamook Sporting Goods in Tillamook, will get this sorted for you quickly.
Choosing an Ideal Crabbing Spot
Crabbing from the shore or a dock is fun and casual, while boating can yield a big haul and an adrenaline rush. For those who want serene yet productive crabbing without the hustle of touristy locales, try Netarts Bay south of Tillamook Bay. This well-kept local secret isn’t frequented by tour buses. Bonus: it is home to some of the cleanest and tastiest crustaceans.
If adventure isn’t crabbing without channeling your inner seafarer, then Nestucca Bay in Pacific City is your place. Rent a boat from Pacific City Boat Rental and you are all set to trawl these plentiful waters.
Oregon Crabbing Season: When To Go for Big Catches
Sure, Oregon crabbing is open year-round, but local wisdom advocates for the best bounty from fall through late winter. Mention any different to locals, and you might receive chuckles faster than an Oregon sunset. But remember, the coastal weather changes quickly in the afternoon. Check weather reports and tide times to avoid getting caught out, and always, always have waterproof gear on hand.
Crabs molt and grow new shells during the spring and summer, resulting in softer shells. Opting for late fall, when the crabs have fattened up and hardened their new shells, ensures a feast worthy of the effort and patience given to the catch.
Baiting Your Crab: Secret Oregon Tips
Using what seems like the ‘ickiest’ bait (think fish heads or chicken livers) may not be the most pleasant part of crabbing, but, oh boy, does it yield results. It’s an Oregon open secret: quality bait rules and can truly make or break your crabbing day.
Warnings from a Wise Oregonian
Watch out for Red Rock crabs, often confused with Dungeness. While you can technically keep them, they’re not as meaty and have a different flavor. Positioned on the list of tourist traps that locals avoid goes to the red seafaring imposters – stick to the Oregon-famed Dungeness.
Finally, make sure you’re familiar with Oregon’s Crab Regulations, which limit the size and sex of the crustaceans you can legally keep. This protects the local ecosystem and ensures there will be plenty of delicious crabs for future seasons.
After the Catch: Experience True Oregonian Delight
Finally, how can we discuss the Oregon crabbing experience without touching on the sweet reward itself? Your freshly-caught crabs can be cooked right on the shore, for an experience as delightful as the catch. For those unfamiliar with crab cleaning and cooking, give a shout to local experts like the folks at Kelly’s Brighton Marina. They’re always happy to share their expertise.
In conclusion, crabbing is a cherished treasure of the Oregon Coast. It’s not just an activity, but an adventure that lends a measure of the state’s beautiful rugged soul, a local experience that can turn anyone into a devoted Oregon fan. So, lace up those waterproof boots with gusto because a crabby day on the Oregon shores is always a good day. Welcome to the Oregon Coast, and as we say in these parts, “Happy Crabbing!”