SALEM, Ore.—Recreational crabbing will reopen to non-residents tomorrow, Wednesday, May 20 along most of the Oregon coast. Recreational clamming along the entire coast will remain closed to non-residents for now.
Non-resident license holders will be allowed to participate in crabbing in Oregon bays and estuaries, and in Oregon ocean areas, that are south of Cape Falcon. Ocean areas north of Cape Falcon, as well as the Columbia River, will remain closed to non-resident crabbing for now.
Coastal communities have begun to gradually reopen but communities and land managers are taking a phased approach. Clamming tends to draw many people to beaches on specific days when there is a minus tide, especially during the summer. With more potential for crowding at beach access sites, clamming and some North Coast crabbing remains closed to non-residents for now.
Anyone going crabbing, fishing or taking part in other outdoor recreation is reminded to:
- Check for access before you go. Even if fishing/crabbing is open, the boat ramp or park where you want to go might be closed. ODFW does not control access to land or facilities it doesn’t manage, so check with the land manager or facility owner where you want to go about what’s open before you leave home.
- Stay home if you are sick.
- Stick close to home. Don’t travel far to hunt, fish or crab. Many places remain closed to overnight camping/lodging.
- Be prepared. Restrooms and other facilities may be more limited. Bring your own soap, water, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, food, etc. Buy your license online before you go.
- Avoid crowds. Go someplace else if your destination looks crowded.
- Practice physical distancing. Keep six feet between you and anyone who doesn’t live in your immediate household, including while on a boat or at a fish cleaning station.
- Wash your hands often. Keep up on personal hygiene and bring your own water, soap, and hand sanitizer with you.
- Pack out what you pack in. Take any garbage with you, including disposable gloves and masks.
Crabbers are also reminded to always check the Oregon Department of Agriculture shellfish safety page or call the safety hotline (1-800-448-2474) before crabbing. ODA regularly tests crabs and other shellfish for toxins and closes areas when toxins are at a level that would make then unsafe for human consumption. Currently, there are no crabbing closures due to toxins in Oregon.
