Dungeness Crab Fishery Opens Amidst Caution: Elevated Domoic Acid Levels and Trap Restrictions

The much-anticipated recreational Dungeness crab season officially commenced today across Del Norte and Mendocino counties, along with portions of Humboldt County. However, this opening arrives with cautionary measures still in place due to heightened entanglement risks and ongoing health advisories linked to elevated domoic acid levels.

The Current Landscape

Recent evaluations from state health officials have cleared select waters stretching from the California/Oregon border (42° 0.0′ N latitude) to the southern boundary of the Reading Rock Marine Protected Areas (41° 17.6’ N latitude) and onward from Cape Mendocino (40° 10.0’ N latitude) to the Sonoma/Mendocino County line (38° 46.125’ N latitude) for recreational crabbing. However, health advisories from the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) remain in effect, advising against the consumption of crab viscera—or “guts”—and recommending thorough cleaning before cooking.

California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) Director Charlton H. Bonham has relayed this information through an official declaration that validates the opening of the recreational fishery in the aforementioned counties, while portions of Humboldt remain closed due to ongoing concerns about domoic acid toxicity.

Domoic acid, a potent neurotoxin, poses a potential risk to marine life as well as human consumers. The ongoing testing of Dungeness crabs will help facilitate a safer reopening of the affected areas. This scientific effort involves coordinated actions among fishery participants, the CDPH, and CDFW.

Navigating Trap Restrictions

In light of previous assessments of entanglement risk for marine species such as whales and sea turtles, new regulations dictate that only hoop nets or crab snares may be utilized in the northern section from the California/Oregon border to the southern limit of the Reading Rock Marine Protected Areas. Meanwhile, anglers from Cape Mendocino down to the Sonoma/Mendocino County line may continue using crab traps, though restrictions persist from the county line southbound to Lopez Point, alongside a Fleet Advisory relevant across all navigation zones.

While the recreational fishery is set to reopen, commercial Dungeness crab harvests remain on standby. Ongoing assessments regarding entanglement risks, as well as assessments of crab quality in relation to domoic acid exposure, will be revisited next week. This review could allow for a resumption of commercial fishing by New Year’s, as well as potentially lifting trap restrictions in recreational waters.

Why It Matters

Understanding these regulations isn’t just vital for conservationists and marine biologists; it’s also crucial for local economies that thrive on fishing-related activities. The Dungeness crab fishery supports numerous coastal communities along California’s expansive coastline. Restrictions or closures can significantly impact local livelihoods and the overall economic health of these regions. Awareness of health advisories is equally important for consumers and recreational fishers, as safety should always be the top priority when engaging in marine harvests.

Field Insights

• Pro Tips for Recreational Crabbers:
  • Know Your Catch: Familiarize yourself with the anatomy of Dungeness crabs. Proper identification is key to compliance with local regulations and health advisories.
  • Clean Thoroughly: Always clean your catch properly to minimize health risks, following the CDPH’s guidance closely.
  • Stay Informed: Regularly check updates on domoic acid levels and ensure you are aware of any evolving restrictions or advisories before heading out.

For ongoing updates regarding the risk assessment process, visit the CDFW’s Whale Safe Fisheries page. For specific details about the Dungeness crab fishery, click over to wildlife.ca.gov/crab. Additionally, updated information on domoic acid levels and advisories can be found via:

• CDFW’s resources:

  • Fishery closure information and health advisories page
  • Domoic Acid Fishery Closure Information Line: (831) 649-2883

• CDPH’s resources:

  • Domoic Acid results website (Analytical Data – Crabs)
  • Shellfish advisories web page for latest consumption warnings
  • Biotoxin Information Line: (510) 412-4643 or (800) 553-4133

As the Dungeness crab fishery welcomes back recreational anglers, both caution and compliance remain paramount in ensuring a sustainable and safe marine harvest.