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
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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 Oak Harbor. Right now in March, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Dungeness Crab
Crabbing for Dungeness near Oak Harbor can be incredibly rewarding, given the right strategy. The waters around Whidbey Island offer a rich environment for these crustaceans. Prime crabbing season typically runs from late summer through fall, after the molting season. Focus your efforts in areas with sandy or muddy bottoms, typically at depths of 30 to 60 feet. Bait your traps with oily fish or chicken, and be sure to check them regularly, ideally every 24 hours, to maximize your catch. A great access point is the Oak Harbor Marina, offering easy boat launching and ample parking. Keep in mind that Dungeness crab regulations are strictly enforced in Washington, so be sure to familiarize yourself with size limits and catch quotas before heading out. The local Dungeness population is known for its large size and succulent meat, making it a prized catch.
Plan a Trip to Oak Harbor
See what's biting in Oak Harbor, find top-rated guides, and estimate charter costs.
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 license do I need to go crabbing for Dungeness near Oak Harbor?
To harvest Dungeness crab in Washington, you'll need a shellfish license. Make sure to have it with you while crabbing.
What's the minimum size for Dungeness crab I can keep in Washington?
The minimum carapace width for Dungeness crab you can legally keep in Washington is 6 1/4 inches. Be sure to measure carefully and release undersized crabs.
How many Dungeness crabs can I keep per day near Oak Harbor?
The daily bag limit for Dungeness crab in Washington is 5 crabs per person. Remember to only keep male crabs.
When is Dungeness crab season open around Oak Harbor?
Dungeness crab season in Washington typically opens in the summer or fall, but it varies by area. Check the WDFW regulations to confirm the specific dates for the area you plan to crab in.
What's the best bait to use for Dungeness crab in the Oak Harbor area?
Dungeness crabs are attracted to a variety of baits. Popular choices include chicken, turkey necks, fish carcasses, and commercially available crab bait. Experiment to see what works best in your chosen crabbing location.
More Dungeness Crab Fishing in Washington
Other Species to Fish in Oak Harbor
Ready to Catch Dungeness Crab in Oak Harbor?
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