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 Tacoma. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Dungeness Crab
Pulling up a pot full of Dungeness crab is a quintessential Pacific Northwest experience, and Tacoma offers excellent opportunities to get in on the action. Focus your efforts in Puget Sound, particularly near areas where the seafloor transitions from sandy to rocky, as these crabs love that kind of structure. Prime crabbing season typically runs from late summer into fall, after the molting season. For the best results, pay close attention to the tides; slack tides are ideal, as strong currents can make it difficult to keep your pots in place. Consider using weighted crab pots to combat the currents. A pro tip: try soaking your bait in herring oil to create a scent trail that will attract crabs from a wider area. Public access points like the Les Davis Pier provide convenient access, but exploring further afield by boat can significantly increase your chances of success. Remember to check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations for size and harvest limits before you head out.
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 in the Tacoma area?
The daily bag limit for Dungeness Crab is 5 crabs per person.
What size Dungeness Crab can I keep in Washington?
You can only keep Dungeness Crab with a minimum carapace width of 6 1/4 inches.
Do I need a license to catch Dungeness Crab near Tacoma?
Yes, you need a shellfish license to harvest Dungeness Crab in Washington State.
When is Dungeness Crab season open near Tacoma?
Dungeness Crab season varies by area, but it's typically open during the summer and fall months. Check the WDFW regulations for specific dates and locations.
Where are some good spots to catch Dungeness Crab in Tacoma?
Popular crabbing spots near Tacoma include areas in Puget Sound like Commencement Bay and near Point Defiance Park. Look for areas with sandy or muddy bottoms.
More Dungeness Crab Fishing in Washington
Other Species to Fish in Tacoma
Ready to Catch Dungeness Crab in Tacoma?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.



