As the weather warms up and summer approaches, many outdoor enthusiasts in Washington State are gearing up for a fun and tasty activity: crawfishing. With its abundant waterways and thriving crawfish populations, the Evergreen State offers ample opportunities for recreational crawfishing. However, before you start baiting your traps and heading to your favorite fishing spot, it’s important to understand the regulations and licensing requirements for crawfishing in Washington.
Crawfishing Seasons and Regulations in Washington
In Washington State, crawfishing is permitted from the first Monday in May through October 31 each year. This season allows anglers to enjoy the warmer months while protecting the crawfish population during their reproductive period in the fall and winter.
The daily limit for crawfish is a generous 10 pounds per day (in the shell). This means that you can collect up to 10 pounds of crawfish per day, providing ample opportunity to gather a tasty haul for your next crawfish boil or seafood feast.
It’s important to note that there are different regulations for native and non-native crawfish species in Washington. Native crawfish, such as the Signal crayfish, have a minimum size limit of 3ΒΌ inches from the tip of the rostrum (nose) to the tip of the tail. All females with eggs or young attached must be immediately returned to the water unharmed.
For non-native crawfish species, there are no size, daily limit, or sex restrictions. However, these crawfish must be kept in a separate container and must be dead before being removed from the riparian area (immediate vicinity of the water body).
Licensing Requirements for Crawfishing in Washington
One of the most common questions among prospective crawfishers is whether a license is required to harvest crawfish in Washington State. The good news is that a Washington fishing or shellfishing license is not needed for crawfishing.
According to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), you do not need a license if you are fishing for common carp, crawfish, or bullfrogs. This exemption applies to both residents and non-residents of Washington State.
However, it’s important to note that while a license is not required for crawfishing, there are still some general rules and regulations that anglers must follow. These include the use of legal gear, such as one star trap, one ring net, or one pot per person, with a maximum of five units of gear per person. Additionally, anglers must follow the statewide gear rules and any other applicable regulations set forth by the WDFW.
Identifying Native and Non-Native Crawfish Species
To ensure compliance with the regulations and to help protect the native crawfish population, it’s crucial for anglers to be able to distinguish between native and non-native crawfish species. The WDFW provides helpful resources for identifying crawfish, including a brief guide to crayfish identification in the Pacific Northwest.
Native Signal crayfish have a uniform brown coloration, with white or light coloration at the claw joint, and a smooth surface on the claws and carapace (head and back). In contrast, non-native species have pronounced bumps on their claws.
If you are unable to positively identify your catch as a non-native species, the daily limit and other restrictions for native crawfish will apply. It’s crucial to handle native crawfish with care and return them to the water unharmed to ensure the sustainability of these populations.
Where to Find Crawfish in Washington
With its diverse waterways, Washington State offers numerous locations for crawfishing. Crawfish can be found in lakes, streams, and rivers throughout the state. Some of the best places to search for crawfish include areas with rock piles, boulders, and weedy spots, as these provide ideal cover for these crustaceans.
The WDFW manages recreational and commercial fisheries for crawfish, and anglers should consult the current Sport Fishing Rules Pamphlet for specific regulations and restrictions for each water body. It’s always a good idea to research your chosen fishing spot in advance to ensure that crawfishing is permitted and to familiarize yourself with any special rules or restrictions that may apply.
Tips for Successful Crawfishing
To increase your chances of a successful and enjoyable crawfishing experience, consider the following tips:
- Fish at night, as crawfish are more active during the cooler evening hours.
- Use fresh fish parts or even dog food as bait, as crawfish are attracted to these scents.
- Check the weather and water conditions before heading out, as high water levels or strong currents can make crawfishing more challenging.
- Bring the necessary gear, such as traps, nets, bait, and a container to store your catch.
- Familiarize yourself with the regulations and restrictions for your chosen fishing spot.
With these tips and a little bit of luck, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and delicious crawfishing adventure in Washington State.
So, while a license is not required for crawfishing in Washington, it’s still important to familiarize yourself with the regulations, identify your catch correctly, and follow all applicable rules and restrictions. By doing so, you can enjoy a fun and responsible crawfishing experience while helping to protect the state’s native crawfish populations.