Featured Dungeness Crab Charters in Newport
Expert captains ready to take you on your next dungeness crab adventure.
Best Time to Catch Dungeness Crab
Dungeness Crab can be caught year-round in Newport. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Dungeness Crab
If Dungeness crab is on your mind, Newport, Oregon, is a fantastic place to be. Crabbing is a popular activity here, with both bay and ocean opportunities. The best time to crab is often during the fall and winter months after the molting season when the crabs have filled out their shells. For bay crabbing, Yaquina Bay is a prime location. You can deploy crab pots from a boat or try your luck with crab rings from the docks and piers. For ocean crabbing, be sure to check the weather forecast and sea conditions before heading out. Local tip: Adding some oily fish like salmon or tuna to your bait can attract more crabs. Remember to consult the ODFW regulations for size and bag limits.
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 daily bag limit for Dungeness crab in Oregon?
You can keep up to 12 male Dungeness crabs per day.
What size Dungeness crab can I keep in Oregon?
The minimum size for Dungeness crab is 5 3/4 inches carapace width.
When is Dungeness crab season open near Newport?
Crab season varies by zone. Generally, ocean waters north of Cape Falcon are open December 1 - August 14, and south of Cape Falcon, it's December 1 - July 31. Always check the specific regulations before crabbing.
Do I need a license to catch Dungeness crab in Oregon?
Yes, you'll need a shellfish license to harvest Dungeness crab in Oregon.
What are some good spots to crab for Dungeness near Newport?
Yaquina Bay is a popular spot for crabbing near Newport. You can also try crabbing from docks or piers, or using crab pots in the bay.
More Dungeness Crab Fishing in Oregon
Other Species to Fish in Newport
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