Dungeness Crab

Dungeness crabbing near Bay City, Oregon, is a popular and productive activity. The Tillamook Bay estuary provides an excellent habitat for these crustaceans. The best time to crab is generally during the fall and winter months, after the summer molting season. Crabs are most active during tidal changes, so plan your crabbing trips accordingly. Use crab pots baited with fish carcasses or commercially available crab bait. A local tip: Many anglers find success crabbing in the lower reaches of the bay, near the channel leading to the ocean. Another tip: When setting your pots, be sure to avoid navigation channels and areas with heavy boat traffic. Also, be aware of the regulations regarding pot placement, soak times, and size/catch limits. Be sure to check your pots regularly to avoid losing any crabs to other scavengers.