Salem, OR – Recreational crabbers along the Oregon Coast are being reminded that ocean waters are now closed to crabbing through November 30. The closure, which began October 16, is part of an annual seasonal pause aimed at ensuring healthy Dungeness crab populations.
According to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), while ocean crabbing is temporarily halted, opportunities remain open year-round in bays, estuaries, beaches, tide pools, piers, and jetties. These areas are not affected by the ocean closure and remain popular with local harvesters throughout the fall.
The closure applies to all recreational crabbing from the beaches and ocean waters beyond the estuary mouths. ODFW says the pause allows time for crab to recover and helps prepare for the upcoming commercial crabbing season, which typically begins in December, depending on testing results.
Officials encourage crabbers to check for updated regulations and safety advisories before heading out, especially as coastal weather patterns and tides change during the late fall season.
This seasonal closure does not affect clamming or other shellfish harvesting, which remain open under current marine advisories.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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