If crabbing in bays with a strong tidal current, use heavy-gauge pots or affix a five-pound weight to light-framed pots. The extra weight is to prevent the pots from being carried to deep waters or even out to sea. Many pots are lost each year to high tides. When following big tide swings it’s a good idea to pull the pots and make sure they’re not sanded in on the bottom, and are clear of debris.
Wherever you crab, make sure to have a current shellfishing license, where required. Also, be sure each crab is measured and equals or surpasses the legal size slot. When pulling pots, it’s not a bad idea to have a pair of pliers in the back pocket, as well as rubber gloves, should a crab clamp down on a finger with it’s strong pincer.
Many of our fall fishing waters are teaming with luscious Dungeness crabs this time of year. At the current market rate of over $20 per live crab, it won’t take long to pay for any investments you’ll make in crabbing gear. Take advantage of what’s out there and get ready to experience just how delicious a fresh crab and salmon dinner can be.
Note: For signed copies of Scott Haugen’s how-to book, Recreational Dungeness Crabbing, send a check for $13.00 (includes S&H) to Haugen Enterprises, P.O. Box 275, Walterville, OR 97489. This and other educational books, including cookbooks, can be ordered online at www.scotthaugen.com.