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 Santa Cruz. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Dungeness Crab
Crabbing for Dungeness Crab near Santa Cruz is a popular pastime, offering a delicious reward for your efforts. The best time for crabbing is typically during the winter months, after the first major storms of the season. These storms help to flush out the crabs from their hiding places. Crab pots baited with fish carcasses or chicken are the most common method. Set your pots in sandy bottom areas near the edges of kelp forests or along the harbor entrance. Be sure to check local regulations regarding size limits and the number of pots allowed. Launching from Santa Cruz Harbor provides convenient access to the bay's crabbing grounds. Remember to use a measuring gauge to ensure your crabs meet the minimum size requirements, and release any females carrying eggs to help sustain the population.
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 minimum size for Dungeness crab I can keep in California?
You can only keep Dungeness crab with a shell width of at least 5 3/4 inches.
What is the daily limit for Dungeness crab in Santa Cruz?
The daily bag limit for Dungeness crab is 10 per person.
Do I need a license to catch Dungeness crab in Santa Cruz?
Yes, you need a valid California sport fishing license to harvest Dungeness crab.
Are there specific seasons for Dungeness crab in Santa Cruz?
Yes, the season varies by zone. Be sure to check the current California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations before crabbing.
More Dungeness Crab Fishing in California
Other Species to Fish in Santa Cruz
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