The Ultimate Guide to Crabbing on the Oregon Coast
Introduction
There’s something magical about the Oregon coast, isn’t there? Spectacular cliffs plunging into a churning sea, lighthouses perched on rocky outcrops, and the unhurried pace of coastal life. It’s a place where everyone seems to have saltwater coursing through their veins and great love for the seafood that locally available in abundance, especially crabs. This guide will share the best pearls of wisdom for crabbing on the magnificent Oregon Coast.
Prepare for Your Crabbing Adventure
First things first, ensure you’re ready for this rewarding yet demanding activity. A general rule of thumb is to don plenty of warm clothing layers. The coastal weather can be unpredictable and it’s always cooler on the water, so a good rain jacket over some thermal underlayers will serve well.
Good old fashioned elbow grease is the primary thing you’ll need for crabbing, no expensive equipment or fancy boats. Just head down to the local favorite, Englund Marine in Astoria, and pick up some crab traps (ring or box style, whatever suits your fancy) and a measuring gauge for your quarry. Remember, always check legal size and sex of your crabs. Only male Dungeness crabs measuring over 5 ¾” are legal.
Selecting the Best Locations
Oregon’s bays provide the perfect crabbing spots because crabs love them. They’re comfortable, food-laden, and safe from larger ocean predators. Some top-notch bays along the coast include Netarts Bay, Alsea Bay at Waldport, Siuslaw River around Florence, and Coos Bay. But here’s the insider secret, Tillamook Bay around Barview delivers a reliable crabbing experience with spectacular scenic backdrops.
If a dock or a pier is your preferred option, to throw your pot and wait, try the public docks in cities like Newport and Garibaldi. Now there’s a place locals brag about but tourists tend to miss, Kelly’s Brighton Marina in Rockaway Beach. For a small fee, you can crab from the dock, and they’ll even cook up your catch for you on the spot!
Let’s Talk Timing
Crabbing isn’t just a summertime activity, it’s a year-round treat. In fact, locals will tell you winter brings in bigger, meatier crabs. However, the best months for crabbing are typically in the fall, specifically September and October. These gilled critters submerge deep during high tide, so aim for slack water times as the tide transitions between high to low (and vice versa).
Keep an eye on the old adage “If you can see the mountains, it’s about to rain. If you can’t, it’s already raining.” It’s no joke that coastal weather changes quickly, especially in the afternoon. It’s always safe to check the local weather conditions before heading out on the water.
Respect the Ocean, Respect the Crabs
Remember, we’re in their home. It’s crucial to handle crabs carefully so as not to harm them. This ensures a sustainable future for crab populations. Using a crab gauge, measure directly in front of the third spines on a crab’s shell. If the crab is undersized, gently put it back in the water.
A Final Nugget Of Advice
Crabbing is more than just a hobby, it’s a way to bond with friends and family, and be part of the local culture. Those seemingly never-ending cooler days can become heartwarming memories with a successful crabbing trip, huddled around the crab steamer feasting on the day’s catch.
Yes, it’s fun, it’s rewarding, but remember it’s equally unpredictable. Even seasoned crabbers occasionally face an empty pot. So, if the day didn’t go as planned, head over to the Old Oregon Smokehouse in Rockaway Beach or The Crazy Norwegian’s in Port Orford and enjoy some sumptuously cooked crabs. This way, you’ll still have a taste of the crabbing adventure!
By now, you should be all set for an authentic Oregon coast crabbing experience. So, grab your rubber boots, bring along your unwavering spirit of adventure, and head towards the coast. Happy crabbing, my friends! After all, as we Oregonians say, ‘The worst day of crabbing beats the best day of work’.