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 Ilwaco. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Dungeness Crab
Ilwaco is a fantastic spot for Dungeness crab, with the waters around the Columbia River mouth providing a rich habitat. Crabbing is typically best during the fall and winter months when the crabs are larger and more abundant. Using crab pots baited with fish carcasses or commercially available crab bait is the most common method. Deploy your pots in areas with sandy or muddy bottoms, typically in depths of 20 to 40 feet. A local tip is to soak your pots for at least 24 hours, as this can significantly increase your catch rate. Be sure to clearly mark your pots with buoys and adhere to all regulations regarding size limits, sex restrictions, and pot limits. Remember to measure your crabs carefully and only keep those that meet the legal requirements to ensure the sustainability of the fishery.
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 is the daily bag limit for Dungeness Crab near Ilwaco, WA?
You can keep up to 5 Dungeness Crabs per day.
What size Dungeness Crab can I keep in Ilwaco?
Dungeness crabs must be at least 6 1/4 inches in carapace width to be legal to keep.
Do I need a license to catch Dungeness Crab in Washington state?
Yes, you need a shellfish license to harvest Dungeness Crab.
When is Dungeness Crab season typically open around Ilwaco?
The season varies by area but usually opens during the summer and fall months. Always check the specific regulations before crabbing.
More Dungeness Crab Fishing in Washington
Other Species to Fish in Ilwaco
Ready to Catch Dungeness Crab in Ilwaco?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.