Crayfishing is a fun and delicious outdoor activity that’s growing in popularity across Utah. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just looking for a new adventure, catching your own crayfish can be a rewarding experience. But before you head out with your bait and net, it’s important to understand the rules and regulations surrounding crayfishing in the Beehive State.
Licensing Requirements for Crayfishing in Utah
In Utah, the rules for crayfishing are fairly straightforward. If you’re 12 years of age or older, you must have a valid Utah fishing or combination license to fish for crayfish. This applies to any body of water in the state where there’s an open fishing season. If you’re under the age of 12, you don’t need a license to catch crayfish.
It’s important to note that you can only take crayfish for personal, noncommercial purposes. This means you can’t sell the crayfish you catch or use them for any commercial activities.
Where to Find Crayfish in Utah
Crayfish are abundant in many Utah reservoirs and streams, especially in the Virgin, Price, Bear, Duchesne, Weber, and Green river basins. Some popular spots for crayfishing include:
Strawberry/Soldier Creek
Deer Creek
East Canyon
Lake Powell
Scofield
Gunlock
Flaming Gorge
Starvation
Sand Wash
Before you head out, make sure to check the fishing regulations for the specific water you plan to fish in. Some waters may have special restrictions or closed seasons for crayfishing.
Gear and Techniques for Catching Crayfish
Catching crayfish is relatively simple and doesn’t require a lot of specialized gear. The most basic method is to tie a piece of chicken, fish (no game fish), or offal to a strong string and toss it into the water. After a couple of minutes, slowly pull the bait in and scoop up any crayfish that have attached themselves to it with a net.
For faster action, you can add a heavy sinker to your line. Just be careful when handling the crayfish, as their claws can deliver a painful pinch. It’s best to hold them firmly behind the head and claws to avoid getting nipped.
Other effective methods for catching crayfish include:
Seines (not to exceed 10 feet in length or width)
Dip nets
Traps (especially effective for overnight settings)
When using traps, make sure to tie the bait firmly to the floor or secure it with a wire-hinged piece of mesh to keep it from floating away.
Preparing and Cooking Your Catch
Once you’ve caught your crayfish, it’s important to properly clean and prepare them for cooking. First, you’ll need to kill them by stabbing each one firmly on the top where the head joins the body. Then, scrub each crayfish thoroughly, especially on the bottom, to remove any dirt or debris.
You can then remove the vein by grabbing the top middle fin, giving it a twist, and pulling. For extra cleanliness, soak the crayfish in a brine solution for 5 minutes before rinsing with fresh water.
From there, you can cook the crayfish whole or remove the tails. There are countless recipes available online for preparing crayfish, from classic Cajun boils to grilled or sautéed dishes. No matter how you cook them, crayfish are a delicious and nutritious treat that are sure to impress your friends and family.
So why not plan a crayfishing adventure in Utah this year? With the right license, some basic gear, and a little know-how, you can enjoy a fun day outdoors and come home with a tasty catch to share. Just remember to follow all applicable rules and regulations, and always prioritize safety when handling crayfish or any other wildlife.