UPDATE: The coast of Humboldt County is officially reopened for recreational crabbing, effective immediately. This announcement, made by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife on January 2, 2024, follows a partial opening last month.
The decision comes after rigorous testing confirmed that the Dungeness crab meat in Humboldt and Mendocino County no longer poses a significant risk of domoic acid exposure, a potentially deadly neurotoxin. The California Department of Public Health reported that recent lab results indicated that crab meat is safe for consumption, allowing crabbers to return to the waters.
Authorities had previously restricted recreational crabbing in the area due to elevated levels of this harmful toxin, which can accumulate in shellfish and lead to serious health issues, including neurological symptoms and even death. In light of these findings, the public is advised to avoid eating crab viscera and ensure proper cleaning before cooking.
With the reopening, Northern California is now fully accessible to recreational crabbers, marking a significant shift in local fishing opportunities. However, trap restrictions remain in effect to prevent whale entanglements, as the use of hoop nets, crab snares, or hand-catching is mandated under current regulations. These restrictions are in place to protect marine wildlife in the area.
“Due to the potential for whales in this area to become entangled in trap buoy lines, Dungeness crab may currently only be taken with hoop nets, crab snares, or by hand,” a CDFW announcement stated.
Looking ahead, the statewide lifting of trap restrictions is scheduled for January 2, 2024, at 8:01 a.m. Meanwhile, the commercial crabbing season for Humboldt and Del Norte counties is postponed until January 15, 2024, at 12:01 a.m.. Other parts of California will open on January 5, 2024, with a 40% reduction in trap limits.
The delay in commercial crabbing is a routine measure aimed at minimizing the risk of entanglement. The CDFW noted that Humboldt County’s postponement was due to the inability to conduct meat quality testing amidst elevated domoic acid levels.
For those eager to participate in the recreational fishery, more information can be found at this link.
The reopening of crabbing along the Humboldt County coast not only brings economic relief to local fishermen but also invigorates community engagement, as residents and visitors alike are keen to enjoy this beloved coastal activity.
Stay tuned for further updates as testing results continue to evolve and as the crabbing season progresses across California.
