Where To Catch Crab In Puget Sound
Crabbing in Puget Sound is a favorite pastime for many people. Whether you're an experienced crabber or new to the sport, there are plenty of places in Puget Sound where you can catch crab. In this article, we'll explore the best spots to catch crab, as well as some tips for success.
Types of Crab in Puget Sound
Before we delve into where to catch crab in Puget Sound, let's take a look at the types of crab you can expect to find. There are three main types of crab in Puget Sound:
- Dungeness Crab
- Red Rock Crab
- Alaskan King Crab
Dungeness crab is by far the most popular and abundant crab in the Sound, followed by red rock crab. Alaskan king crab is less common, but can still be found in Puget Sound.
Best Spots to Catch Crab in Puget Sound
1. Hood Canal
Hood Canal is one of the best spots in Puget Sound to catch Dungeness crab. The canal is a long and narrow fjord that extends from the Olympic Mountains to the Puget Sound. Dungeness crab can be found all along the canal, but the best spots are near the mouth of the canal and in the southern part of the canal.
2. Edmonds Pier
The Edmonds Pier is another popular spot for crabbing. The pier is located in the town of Edmonds, about 15 miles north of Seattle. Dungeness crab can be caught from the pier all year round, but the best time to catch them is during the summer months.
3. Westport
Westport is a coastal town located in southwest Washington. It's a popular spot for commercial and recreational crabbing, and is known for its large Dungeness crab. You can catch Dungeness crab from the docks, piers, and boats in the harbor.
4. Port Angeles
Port Angeles is a town on the northern shore of the Olympic Peninsula. It's a popular spot for recreational crabbing, with plenty of Dungeness crab to be caught. The best spots are near the mouth of the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
5. Alki Beach
Alki Beach is a popular spot for crabbing in Seattle. The beach is located in West Seattle, and is a great place to catch Dungeness crab. The best time to catch them is during the summer months, when the water is warmer.
Tips for Crabbing in Puget Sound
Now that you know where to catch crab in Puget Sound, here are some tips for success:
- Make sure you have the proper gear, including a crab pot, bait, and a measuring device.
- Check the regulations for the area where you're crabbing, as they can vary by location.
- Crab during the early morning hours or late in the evening, when the crabs are most active.
- Look for areas with a rocky or sandy bottom, as this is where crabs like to hide.
- Use chicken, fish heads, or clams as bait.
- Check your crab pots every 10-15 minutes for new catches.
Conclusion
Catching crab in Puget Sound can be a fun and rewarding experience. With these tips and the right gear, you'll be well on your way to catching your own delicious Dungeness crab. Just remember to check the regulations for the area where you're crabbing, and be respectful of other crabbers and the environment.
