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 Rockaway Beach. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Dungeness Crab
Rockaway Beach is a fantastic spot to try your luck crabbing for Dungeness! The Tillamook Bay area, easily accessible from Rockaway, is known for its healthy crab population. Crabbing is generally best in the fall and winter months, but you can find success year-round. Focus on areas with sandy or muddy bottoms, especially near the mouths of rivers and streams. Baited crab pots are the most common method, and chicken or turkey necks are popular choices. Be sure to check your pots regularly, as crabs can quickly strip the bait. A local tip: try setting your pots in slightly deeper water during slack tide. Also, be aware of the crabbing regulations, including size and bag limits, which are strictly enforced in Oregon.
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
When can I crab for Dungeness near Rockaway Beach?
Crabbing seasons vary by zone. Generally, ocean waters north of Cape Falcon are open December 1 - August 14, and south of Cape Falcon, December 1 - July 31. Always check the specific regulations before crabbing.
What's the daily limit for Dungeness crab in Oregon?
You can keep up to 12 male Dungeness crabs per day.
How big does a Dungeness crab have to be to keep it?
The minimum carapace width for Dungeness crabs is 5 3/4 inches. Any crab smaller than that must be released.
Do I need a license to catch Dungeness crab in Rockaway Beach?
Yes, you need a shellfish license to harvest Dungeness crab in Oregon.
More Dungeness Crab Fishing in Oregon
Other Species to Fish in Rockaway Beach
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