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 Monterey. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Dungeness Crab
Crabbing for Dungeness in Monterey Bay is a rewarding experience, particularly during the commercial season which typically opens in November. This allows recreational crabbers to enjoy a relatively unfished population early in the season. The bay's sandy bottom and cooler waters provide ideal habitat. Focus your efforts on areas with depths of 60-120 feet, using crab pots baited with squid or oily fish. The area near the entrance to Moss Landing harbor is a known hotspot, but be mindful of boat traffic. A local tip: check the tides and currents, as Dungeness crabs tend to be more active during slack tides. Keep in mind that regulations regarding size limits and the number of pots allowed are strictly enforced, so always check the latest California Department of Fish and Wildlife guidelines before heading out. Dungeness crabs in Monterey Bay are prized for their size and sweet, succulent meat.
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's the bag limit for Dungeness Crab in Monterey?
The bag limit is 10 Dungeness Crabs per day.
What size Dungeness Crab can I keep in Monterey Bay?
The minimum size is 5 3/4 inches, measured by the shortest distance through the body from edge of shell to edge of shell directly in front of the points (lateral spines).
Do I need a license to catch Dungeness Crab in Monterey, CA?
Yes, you need a valid California Sport Fishing License to take Dungeness Crab.
When is Dungeness Crab season open in Monterey?
The season varies by zone, so check the current California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations for the specific area you plan to crab.
More Dungeness Crab Fishing in California
Other Species to Fish in Monterey
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