California’s crab fishing regulations for 2024 are designed to ensure the sustainability of the state’s crab populations while providing recreational opportunities for anglers. The regulations cover various aspects of crab fishing, including season dates, catch limits, gear restrictions, and licensing requirements.
Recreational Crab Fishing Seasons
The recreational crab fishing seasons in California vary depending on the species and location:
Dungeness crab: Open from November 4, 2023, through July 30, 2024, in Del Norte, Humboldt, and Mendocino counties. Open from November 4, 2023, through June 30, 2024, in all other counties.
Rock crab (including red, yellow, and brown crab): Open year-round statewide.
It’s important to note that the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) may change fishing rules during the year or in-season under certain circumstances.
Catch Limits
The daily bag and possession limits for recreational crab fishing in California are as follows:
Dungeness crab: 10 crab per day.
Rock crab: 35 crab per day.
Sand crab: 50 crab per day.
All crabs must be measured immediately, and any undersize crabs must be released back into the water.
Minimum Size Limits
The minimum size limits for recreational crab fishing in California are:
Dungeness crab: 5¾ inches measured by the shortest distance through the body, excluding lateral spines.
Rock crab: 4 inches measured by the shortest distance through the body, from edge of shell to edge of shell at the widest part (except in Fish and Game districts 8 and 9, where there is no minimum size).
Crabs must be measured immediately, and any undersize crabs must be released back into the water.
Gear Restrictions
Recreational crab fishing in California is permitted using the following gear types:
Crab traps: An individual may operate up to 10 crab traps and service 10 additional traps with written permission from the operator of the trap. Crab traps must be marked with the operator’s GO ID number and a red marker buoy.
Hoop nets: Hoop nets are allowed for recreational crab fishing.
Crab snares: Crab snares with up to 6 loops are permitted.
When crab traps are restricted due to elevated entanglement risk, take by hand, hoop net, or crab snare is allowed.
Licensing Requirements
Anyone 16 years of age or older who wishes to go crabbing in California must have a valid California fishing license. However, some fishing piers can be fished without a license.
In addition, individuals who fish for crabs using crab traps must have a valid Recreational Crab Trap Validation, which can be purchased online.
It’s important for anglers to familiarize themselves with the current regulations and stay updated on any changes or restrictions that may be implemented during the season. Anglers can find the latest information on the CDFW website or by contacting the department directly.