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


Morenot Usa/Nafs
Seattle, Washington
Mørenot is a global provider of solutions and services to the global fishing, aquaculture and seismic industries. We are present with departments within sales-, service- and production all parts of the world, and we are around 800 dedicated employees worldwide.


Fin Natic Fishing
La Push, Washington
Experience the thrill of deep sea fishing with Fin-natic Fishing. Book your offshore fishing charter today and catch the fish of your dreams!


Becharof Rapids Camp
Hoquiam, Washington
We are the premiere remote fly-in fishing camp located on the outlet of Becharof Lake on the Egegik River in Southwestern Alaska (Bristol Bay region). Becharof Lake is the second largest lake in Alaska. One of the largest run of Sockeye salmon in the world swim by our front door, among other species to be caught are silver salmon, king salmon, lake trout, grayling, artic char, and rainbow trout. The camp has private cabins, hot running water, toilets, showers and home cooked meals.


Another Adventure Outdoors
Olympia, Washington


Washington Tuna Charters
Snoqualmie, Washington


Faraway Fly Fishing
Lynden, Washington
Faraway Fly Fishing specializes in connecting worldwide anglers with the finest fly fishing trips, guides and lodges around the world!


Falls Creek Outdoors
Kennewick, Washington
Home


Rs Outdoors
Yakima, Washington


Cascade Fishing Guides
Snohomish, Washington


Hng Outdoors
Othello, Washington


Home Water Guide Service Fishing
Kalama, Washington


Waters West Guide Service
Vancouver, Washington
columbia river fishing guide, columbia river spring chinook,Homepage for Waters West Guide Service located in Western Washington on the Wynoochee River famous for winter and summer run steelhead, washington state fishing guides, cowlitz river fishing guides, washington state river guides, washington state fishing salmon, cowlitz river, fishing cowlitz river, steelhead, cowlitz river springers, cowlitz steelhead
Best Time to Catch Dungeness Crab
Dungeness Crab can be caught year-round in Bay Center. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Dungeness Crab
If you're planning a trip to Bay Center, Washington with Dungeness crab on your mind, you're in the right place! The waters around Willapa Bay are renowned for their crabbing, thanks to the rich, nutrient-filled estuary. Prime time is typically late summer and fall, after the molting season when the crabs are plump and their shells have hardened. Focus your efforts on areas with sandy or muddy bottoms, especially near the mouths of creeks and channels where the crabs forage for small invertebrates. A local tip: many successful crabbers deploy their pots near the low tide line, allowing them to soak as the tide comes in. Be mindful of the regulations regarding size, sex, and daily limits, which are strictly enforced. Also, pay close attention to the water temperature and salinity, as significant changes can affect crab activity. Warmer water can sometimes push them deeper, while a sudden influx of freshwater from heavy rains can temporarily shut down the bite. Using fresh bait like chicken or fish carcasses will significantly increase your chances of success.
How to Catch Dungeness Crab
Dungeness Crab Fishing Regulations in Washington
Open Season
Varies by area; typically summer/fall
Daily Bag Limit
5 per day
Size Limit
6 1/4 inch minimum carapace width
License Required
Shellfish license
Specific dates, times, and locations vary. Check the WDFW website for emergency rules and area closures.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Washington state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Washington
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the bag limit for Dungeness crab near Bay Center, WA?
You're allowed to keep up to 5 Dungeness crab per day. Make sure you know how to identify them correctly!
What size Dungeness crab can I keep in Bay Center?
You can only keep Dungeness crab that are at least 6 1/4 inches in carapace width. It's important to carry a crab gauge to measure your catch.
When is the Dungeness crab season open near Bay Center?
The Dungeness crab season varies by area, but it's typically open during the summer and fall months. Check the specific regulations for the area you plan to crab in.
Do I need a license to catch Dungeness crab in Bay Center, WA?
Yes, you'll need a shellfish license from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife to legally harvest Dungeness crab.
More Dungeness Crab Fishing in Washington
Other Species to Fish in Bay Center
Ready to Catch Dungeness Crab in Bay Center?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.



