"Washington's 2018 Crab Season: When & Where to Catch the Action!"

Crab Season in Washington 2018: A Delicious Guide

Washington state is renowned for its fresh seafood, and crab enthusiasts eagerly await the annual crab season. The 2018 season was no exception, bringing together passionate seafood lovers and dedicated crabbers for a bountiful harvest. Let's dive into the details of the 2018 crab season in Washington, from regulations to the best spots and recipes.

Understanding Washington's Crab Season

Washington's crab season is typically divided into two parts: the Dungeness crab season and the Tanner crab season. The Dungeness crab season usually starts in the fall, with opening dates varying by region, while the Tanner crab season is shorter and occurs in the winter. In 2018, the Dungeness crab season opened on October 16, and the Tanner crab season opened on December 1.

Regulations and Licenses

To participate in Washington's crab season, individuals must obtain a valid fishing license and follow specific regulations. In 2018, the daily limit for Dungeness crabs was 6 males with a minimum size of 6.25 inches, while the daily limit for Tanner crabs was 4 males with a minimum size of 6 inches. It's essential to stay informed about the latest regulations, as they can change annually.

2018 European Green Crab Season Update – Washington Sea Grant

Best Spots for Crab Fishing in Washington

Washington offers numerous prime locations for crab fishing. In 2018, some of the most popular spots included:

Puget Sound: Known for its high population of Dungeness crabs, Puget Sound offers excellent fishing opportunities in both marine areas and inland waters.
Willapa Bay: This estuary on the Pacific coast is famous for its Dungeness crab population and is an excellent spot for both recreational and commercial crabbers.
Columbia River: The mighty Columbia River is home to both Dungeness and Tanner crabs, providing ample fishing opportunities for enthusiasts.

Tips for Successful Crab Fishing

To increase your chances of a successful crab fishing experience, consider the following tips:

Timing: Plan your trip during the peak crab activity hours, typically from dusk to dawn.
Bait: Use fresh bait, such as squid, herring, or chicken, to attract crabs.
Gear: Invest in a quality crab trap or ring net, and ensure your license and permits are up-to-date.
Location: Research the best spots for crab fishing in the area you plan to visit, and consider hiring a guide if you're new to the region.

Crab Recipes: Making the Most of Your Catch

Once you've harvested your daily limit, it's time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Here's a classic Washington-style Dungeness crab recipe to get you started:

A Complete Guide to Crabbing in Washington State - Lakedale

Dungeness Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli

Ingredients	Instructions
1 lb cooked Dungeness crab meat 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley 2 tbsp Dijon mustard 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs 2 green onions, thinly sliced Salt and pepper, to taste 2 tbsp olive oil	In a large bowl, combine crab meat, mayonnaise, parsley, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, panko breadcrumbs, green onions, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Form the crab mixture into patties, about 1/2-inch thick. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add crab cakes and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy. Serve crab cakes with lemon aioli (mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1 minced garlic clove) and enjoy!

Ingredients

Instructions

1 lb cooked Dungeness crab meat
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 green onions, thinly sliced
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

In a large bowl, combine crab meat, mayonnaise, parsley, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, panko breadcrumbs, green onions, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Form the crab mixture into patties, about 1/2-inch thick.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add crab cakes and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
Serve crab cakes with lemon aioli (mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1 minced garlic clove) and enjoy!

Washington's 2018 crab season was a memorable one, filled with delicious catches and unforgettable experiences. As you plan your next crab fishing adventure, stay informed about the latest regulations, explore new fishing spots, and most importantly, enjoy the incredible taste of Washington's fresh crab meat.