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


First Pass Outfitters
Chinook (King) Salmon and Coho (Silver) Salmon, Sturgeon, Steelhead, & Dungeness Crab fishing charters. Book 24/7 from our website.


Newport Oregon Fishing Charters
Newport Oregon Fishing Charters seamlessly connects anglers with the best guide in the state for catching halibut, salmon, bottom fish and dungeness crab.
Best Time to Catch Dungeness Crab
Dungeness Crab can be caught year-round in Florence. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Dungeness Crab
If you're looking for Dungeness crab on the Oregon Coast, Florence offers some prime opportunities. The Siuslaw River estuary and the nearshore ocean waters are your best bets. Focus your efforts around the jetties, docks, and areas where the river meets the ocean. Crabbing is typically best during the fall and winter months when the crabs are more abundant and closer to shore. Keep an eye on the tides; incoming tides can bring in more crabs. For bait, try using chicken, turkey, or fish carcasses. A local tip is to check with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife for any regulations or closures before you head out. Also, the public docks near the Port of Siuslaw offer easy access, but they can get crowded, especially on weekends. Remember to use crab pots or rings and check them regularly. Success hinges on understanding the crabs' movement patterns based on forage availability and water conditions.
How to Catch Dungeness Crab
Dungeness Crab Fishing Regulations in Oregon
Open Season
Varies by zone; typically open December 1 - August 14 for ocean waters north of Cape Falcon, and December 1 - July 31 for ocean waters south of Cape Falcon. Check specific regulations.
Daily Bag Limit
12 male crabs per day
Size Limit
5 3/4 inches minimum carapace width
License Required
Shellfish license
Only male Dungeness crabs may be retained. Check the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife website for specific zone regulations and any temporary closures.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Oregon state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Oregon
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait to use for dungeness crab near Florence, Oregon?
Dungeness crab are scavengers and are attracted to a variety of baits. Chicken, turkey necks, fish carcasses, and commercially available crab bait all work well in crab traps or rings.
What are the regulations for crabbing near Florence, Oregon?
In ocean waters south of Cape Falcon, the Dungeness crab season is typically open December 1st through July 31st. You can keep up to 12 male crabs per day, and they must be at least 5 3/4 inches in carapace width. A shellfish license is required.
What size Dungeness crab can I keep in Oregon?
You can only keep male Dungeness crabs with a carapace width of at least 5 3/4 inches. Be sure to measure carefully and release any undersized or female crabs.
Do I need a license to catch Dungeness crab in Florence?
Yes, you need a valid Oregon Shellfish License to harvest Dungeness crab in the Florence area. Make sure to have it with you while crabbing.
More Dungeness Crab Fishing in Oregon
Other Species to Fish in Florence
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