Fishing Charters in California
Browse fishing charters in California that can help you catch dungeness crab.


Prisoner Rock Charters
Prisoner Rock Charters for Trinidad, California Fishing Trips! Halibut, Rockfish, Lingcod, Greenling, Dungeness Crab, & more. Call (541) 749-0145


Unforgettable Fishing Adventures
Unforgettable Fishing in the San Francisco Bay and Outside the Golden Gate. Fishing for King Salmon, Halibut, Striped Bass, Dungeness crab, Ling Cod, Rockfish and Sharks. Experience a world class Fishery with views of the Iconic Golden Gate Bridge and located in the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco, California.


Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Come out on the Warrior Poet for full and half day fishing charters on the San Francisco Bay and beyond the Golden Gate, departing from Fisherman's Wharf. Fishing Charters for rock fish, sturgeon, stripers, salmon, shark, Dungeness crab, tuna, ling cod, halibut on the San Francisco Bay and beyond the Golden Gate.
Best Time to Catch Dungeness Crab
Dungeness Crab can be caught year-round in Goleta. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Dungeness Crab
Dungeness crab enthusiasts will find Goleta a worthwhile destination, particularly during the commercial crabbing season, which typically opens in November (check regulations!). While you can deploy crab traps from a boat, a popular and accessible method is to use hoop nets from the Goleta Pier. The pier offers a convenient platform to drop your nets into the productive waters of the Santa Barbara Channel. Focus your efforts during slack tides or periods of minimal current. Bait your nets generously with oily fish like mackerel or sardines. A local tip: many successful crabbers add a weight to their hoop nets to ensure they sink quickly and stay in place, especially when currents are present. Always be mindful of other pier users and follow all posted regulations.
How to Catch Dungeness Crab
Dungeness Crab Fishing Regulations in California
Open Season
Varies by zone; check current regulations
Daily Bag Limit
10 per day
Size Limit
5 3/4-inch minimum shell width
License Required
Sport fishing license
Regulations vary between the North and Central Management Areas. Check for specific gear restrictions and potential season closures due to domoic acid.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the California state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in California
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the daily bag limit for Dungeness Crab in California?
The bag limit for Dungeness Crab is 10 per day.
What's the minimum size for Dungeness Crab I can keep near Goleta?
The minimum size requirement for Dungeness Crab is 5 3/4 inches in shell width.
Do I need a license to catch Dungeness Crab in Goleta, CA?
Yes, you'll need a valid California sport fishing license to harvest Dungeness Crab.
When is Dungeness Crab season open near Goleta?
Dungeness Crab season varies by zone. Always check current regulations before crabbing.
More Dungeness Crab Fishing in California
Other Species to Fish in Goleta
Ready to Catch Dungeness Crab in Goleta?
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