Dungeness Crab

Crabbing for Dungeness near West Point offers a delicious reward, but success hinges on timing and technique. The best time to set your pots is generally during the colder months, from late fall through winter, when Dungeness are closer to shore and actively feeding. Focus your efforts in sandy-bottomed areas, typically 20-40 feet deep, near the entrance to the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta. A local tip: use strong, durable pots and secure them well, as currents can be strong, and the area can be busy. Bait your pots with oily fish like sardines or mackerel for maximum attraction. Be sure to check your pots regularly, ideally every 24 hours, to avoid losing your catch or having your pots stolen. Always adhere to California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations regarding size limits, bag limits, and licensing requirements.