Kids looking at dungeness crab in bucket.

Westport, Washington, is a haven for seafood lovers—from salmon to rockfish to halibut and oysters, it’s one of the largest commercial and sport fishing hubs on the West Coast. Among all these coastal treasures, crabbing stands out as a quintessential Pacific Northwest experience and the backbone of Westport’s seafood industry. From the bustling marinas to scenic beaches, the area offers ample opportunities to catch Dungeness and red rock crabs—two of the most sought-after species.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a curious beginner, crabbing in Westport offers a fun, hands-on adventure with the bonus of a delicious, buttery meal at the end!

If you’re just getting started, here’s a primer to get you on your way to your first Westport crabbing adventure.

Crabbing season is at its peak from December to March, but you can still crab through September and buy directly from boats all summer.

What you’re catching:

Dungeness crab: Dubbed “The Kings of the North,” Dungeness crab are most easily identified by their purple-hued shells and are known to grow up to 10 inches across and are generally found along sandy or muddy parts of the ocean floor.
Fun fact: It takes about four years for male Dungeness crabs to reach harvest size.

Red Rock Crabs: Known as “The Pearl of the Pacific Northwest,” Red Rock Crabs generally measure less than 6 inches across and have larger claws. While less meaty than their Dungeness counterparts, red rock crab meat is still quite tasty. You can identify them by their red coloration and the black on the tips of their claws.

Gear Up: What You’ll Need

Before heading out, make sure you’re equipped with the right tools:

1. Crab Pots or Rings: These are the primary tools for trapping crabs. Crab pots are sturdier and better for extended use, while rings are great for shorter sessions. The easiest way to get into crabbing is by renting a crab pot or rings, which can be found at various spots around town, one of which is The Seafood Connection._

2. Bait: Crabs love fish carcasses, chicken parts, turkey, or squid. The fresher, the better! Fresh bait can be purchased at a variety of places in town.

Dungeness crab being measured with crab gauge.

3. Crab Gauge: To measure your catch and ensure it meets legal size limits. You can catch five male hardshell Dungeness crabs a day that are at least 6 1/4” wide and/or six hardshell Red Rock Crab per day with a 5” minimum of either sex. Get your gauge from any crabbing outfitter or purchase one for under $10 online.

Male and Femaie, legal size guide graphic — *The underside of a female and male Dungeness crab.*

NOTE: You can tell the sex of the crabs by looking at their underside. The shape of both the male and female’s abdomen, or apron, is triangular, but the male’s is pointed and narrow while the female’s is more rounded, wider, and located closer to the center of the crab’s underside. Additionally, in many species, male crabs have brightly colored claws, while females’ claws have red tips. Males are often larger than females, but always check the aprons - there are some big girls out there!

4. Bucket or Cooler with ice: Keep your crabs fresh and alive until it’s time to cook.

Gloved hand picking up crab from backside

5. Gloves: great for wet ropes and avoiding pincers!

6. Fishing License: Washington State requires a shellfish license for crabbing. Be sure to check local regulations for specific limits and requirements.

Best Spots in Westport

• Westport Marina: This is a hotbed for crabbing activity. Drop your pots from the docks if you’re looking for calmer water and a pier.

• Half Moon Bay: Accessible and scenic, this spot is great for both beginners and families.

• North Jetty: Known for its variety of marine life, this area is perfect for adventurous crabbers looking for bigger catches.

Tips for Success

1. Timing is Everything: Crabs are most active during incoming or slack tides. Check tide charts before you go. For pots, allow them to sit for at least an hour before checking them. For rings, 10 minutes (or more) should work.

2. Stay Legal: Follow state guidelines for catch limits, size, and gender restrictions (e.g., only male crabs of legal size can be kept).

3. Mark Your Gear: Use a buoy with your contact information to identify your pots.

4. Use the right traps: When crabbing from a jetty, don’t use box- or ring-style traps as they’ll get stuck on the rocks. In that case, use a crab snare or casting traps you can throw by hand.

5. Handle with Care: Crabs can pinch! Hold them by their back legs to avoid injury.

Packaged half crab and legs for boxed cold storage

Where to Find Ready-to-Eat Crab 🦀🍴

If you’re not quite ready to dive into crabbing yourself and want crab fresh off the boat, you generally have to wait for summer to purchase from fishermen at the marina. Frozen crab can typically be purchased year-round. Just look for the Fresh Catch sign and it’ll point you in the right direction.

Westport's Fresh Catch guide sign at marina. — *Located* *outside the marina, the Fresh Catch sign regularly displays open seafood markets and boats/fishermen who are ready to sell seafood!*

Otherwise, you can purchase it frozen, cooked or locally canned at:

• Local Seafood Markets: you’ll find three fabulous seafood markets in Westport that are open year-round. These markets purchase directly from local fishing vessels, supporting many small businesses and local families.

• Restaurants: Treat yourself to crab cakes, crab-stuffed dishes, or buttery crab legs at any of our iconic eateries. Don’t forget to ask about specials—many restaurants feature locally caught crab prepared with seasonal flavors!

Charter fishing and crabbing boat out of Westport, WA

How to Learn the Ropes with a Pro 🎣

If you’re new to crabbing or want to maximize your success, why not book a guided experience? Westport is home to expert charter services that can teach you everything you need to know.

You can book a crab-only trip, or ask for crabbing as an add-on to a traditional fishing trip. Booking a charter is a great way to learn the techniques, get insider tips, and come home with a full cooler of fresh crab!

Plan Your Crabbing Adventure in Westport!

Westport isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience. Whether you’re crabbing off the docks or taking in the stunning coastal views, a trip to Westport is something your entire family will enjoy.

So, grab your gear, rally your crew, and head to Westport for a day filled with excitement, fresh air, and delicious seafood, whether you catch and cook it yourself, or leave it to the pros!

Check out our accommodations page and book your Westport Crabbing Adventure today.

See you on the docks!