Crabbing is a popular recreational activity along the Oregon coast, offering a fun and delicious way to enjoy the state’s abundant seafood resources. However, before you can start dropping your crab pots or rings, it’s important to understand the licensing requirements. In 2024, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has specific regulations in place for recreational crabbing, ensuring the sustainability of the crab population and providing a fair and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Annual Shellfish License
To legally crab in Oregon, anyone 12 years of age and older must possess a valid shellfish license. This license is required for both residents and non-residents and can be purchased online through the ODFW website, from authorized license agents, or at ODFW offices that sell licenses. The annual shellfish license is valid from January 1 to December 31 of the same year.
In 2024, the cost of an annual shellfish license is as follows:
Resident: $10.00
Non-resident: $28.00
For youth aged 12-17, an annual combination license that includes fishing, hunting, and shellfish privileges is available for only $10.00.
Daily/Multi-day Licenses
If you don’t need a full-year license, ODFW also offers daily and multi-day options for crabbing:
Daily Angling and Shellfish Combination License (Resident/Non-resident): $23.00 ($24.00 with a Columbia River Basin Endorsement)
Three Day Shellfish License (Non-resident only): $19.00
These licenses provide flexibility for those who only plan to crab for a short period or want to try it out before committing to an annual license.
Other Licenses and Permits
In addition to the shellfish license, there are a few other permits and licenses that may be required or useful for crabbing in Oregon:
Wildlife Area Parking Permit: Daily ($10.00) or Annual ($30.00)
Waterway Access Permit for Nonmotorized Boats: $19.00 (Resident/Non-resident)
Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Permit for Motorized Boats: $22.00 (Non-resident only)
Oregon Disabilities Hunting and Fishing Permit: FREE (Resident/Non-resident, includes disabled clam digging)
It’s important to note that a regular shellfish license is still required even with the Oregon Disabilities Hunting and Fishing Permit.
Commercial Crabbing Licenses
If you plan to commercially harvest and sell crabs, you’ll need a different set of licenses and permits. Commercial crabbing is regulated by the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) and ODFW.
To commercially harvest crabs, you’ll need:
A commercial shellfish license from the ODA
A food processor’s license from the ODA if you plan to can or process the crabs
A commercial fishing license from ODFW if you are participating in the commercial bay Dungeness crab fishery
The commercial bay Dungeness crab fishery is an open access fishery that does not require a special permit, but everyone participating needs to have either their own commercial fishing license or be included on someone else’s license.
Regulations and Restrictions
In addition to having the proper licenses, there are several regulations and restrictions that crabbers must follow in Oregon:
Minimum size limit: Male Dungeness crabs must be at least 5 3/4 inches wide
Daily catch limit: 12 male Dungeness crabs or 24 Red Rock crabs of any size or sex
Closed areas: Some areas may be closed to crabbing due to conservation efforts, biotoxin contamination, or other reasons
Gear restrictions: Crab pots and rings must be marked with the owner’s name and address, and there are limits on the number of pots or rings that can be used
It’s crucial to check the current regulations and any closures before heading out to crab, as these can change from year to year or even throughout the season.
Obtaining Your License
Purchasing your shellfish license is quick and easy in 2024. You can buy your license online through the ODFW website, from authorized license agents, or at ODFW offices that sell licenses. The online option is particularly convenient, as you can purchase your license from the comfort of your own home and have it ready to go before your crabbing trip.
When you purchase your license, make sure to have the following information ready:
Full legal name
Date of birth
Mailing address
Driver’s license or ID number
Social Security number (for adults)
Once you have your license, you’re ready to start crabbing in Oregon! Remember to always follow the regulations, respect the environment, and enjoy your time on the water.
Happy crabbing in 2024!