Catching Dungeness crab in California is a popular and exciting pastime for both locals and tourists alike. With its sandy shorelines, California provides plenty of opportunities for crabbing. Using a crab snare is one of the most effective and easy ways to catch these delicious crustaceans from land. However, before heading out, it’s important to understand the proper techniques and regulations to ensure a successful and sustainable catch. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of catching Dungeness crab in California using a crab snare while providing valuable tips to optimize your success. So grab your gear and let’s get started on this unforgettable adventure!
- Obtain a crab ruler and/or fishing license: Before you start crabbing in California, you must obtain a crab ruler and a valid fishing license from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife unless you are fishing from an area that does not require a fishing license (like a public pier or jetty in some areas in Northern California. You can purchase a crab ruler at a fishing tackle store and a license online, at a fishing tackle store, or at a CDFW office.
- Purchase a crab snare: Crab snares can be purchased at fishing tackle stores or online. Make sure to choose a crab snare that is suitable for catching Dungeness crabs.
- Choose a location: Look for a spot with a sandy shoreline or a pier where Dungeness crabs are known to inhabit. Check the local fishing regulations to make sure the area is open for crabbing and to determine the catch limit and any other restrictions.
- Bait and weight the crab snare: Put a piece of bait, such as chicken or fish, into the compartment and also attach a weight. The weight size is dependent on current. It needs to be heavy enough to sit on the bottom of the ocean floor.
- Cast the crab snare. Using your fishing rod, cast out the crab snare. Keep the line taut. Sometimes you can feel when a crab takes the bait.
- Wait and check: Keep your line taut and wait for about 10 minutes. If you feel a tug or a sudden weight on the line, it could be a crab taking the bait.
- Pull up the crab snare: After 10 minutes or so or if you think you feel something, pull up the crab snare slowly and steadily. Keep your line taut at all times. Avoid jerking the line or snare, as this can cause the crab to let go.
- Inspect the crab snare: You will know immediately if you have a crab on the line. It will be HEAVY. Once the snare is out of the water, refill the bait if needed and make sure all of the lassos are free. Sometimes the lassos can tangled or stuck in a cinched position.
- Measure the crab: Measure the carapace width of the crab to make sure it meets the minimum size requirement. If the crab is too small, carefully release it back into the water.
- Keep the crab(s) in a cooler: If you catch a legal-size crab, keep it in a cooler filled with ice until you are ready to cook and eat it.
Remember to always follow local fishing regulations and ethical practices when crabbing to preserve the sustainability of the crab population.
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