Crabbing for Dungeness crabs off the dock is an exciting and rewarding way to enjoy the great outdoors and harvest one of the most prized seafoods in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you're a seasoned fisherman or a first-timer, this is a relatively easy way to catch these delicious crabs. Dungeness crabs are known for their sweet, tender meat and are a favorite among seafood lovers. Using simple gear like a crab trap or pot, you can fish right from the dock. With a little patience, some basic knowledge of crabbing techniques, and the right equipment, you'll be ready to enjoy a fresh cooked crab feast. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to get started with dockside crabbing for Dungeness crabs, from setting up your gear and understanding the regulations.
The most popular spot for dock crabbing in Lincoln City is:
Siletz Bay
Located near the south end of Lincoln City, featuring a public crabbing dock near Mo’s Restaurant. The bay's structure, with its mix of sandy bottoms and rocky outcrops, provides excellent habitats for crabs. The shallow waters are perfect for catching a mix of Dungeness and Red Rock crabs and accessible to all ages, making it a great family-friendly location.
Important Regulations & Licensing
Crabbing License
Required for anyone 12 years or older.
Can be purchased online at MyODFW.com or at local bait shops, sporting goods stores, and some grocery stores.
Resident and non-resident licenses are available.
Crab Limits & Regulations
Dungeness Crabs: Daily limit: 12 males per person.
Must be 5 ¾ inches across the shell (measured in front of the spines).
Only male crabs can be kept; females must be released.
Red Rock Crabs: Daily limit: No limit!
No size or sex restrictions, but they have less meat than Dungeness crabs.
Baited Gear Restrictions:
No more than 3 baited crab rings, pots, or traps per person
Best Time to Go Crabbing:
Seasons: Crabbing is best from late summer to early winter (August–December) when crabs are fuller and meatier.
Tides: The best time to crab is during slack tide (the period between high and low tide) when the water is calm and crabs are more active.
Time of Day: Early morning or late afternoon tends to be the most productive.
Gear & Equipment Needed:
Crab Traps & Rings
Crab Rings (Best for docks): Cheap, lightweight, and pull up quickly.
Crab Pots: Heavier, designed for longer soaks, but not ideal for dock crabbing.
Hand Lines: Simple weighted lines with bait and a net to scoop crabs.
Bait Choices:
Best baits: Chicken legs, turkey necks, fish carcasses, or squid.
Secure bait inside a mesh bag to prevent crabs from stealing it.
Measuring & Storage Crab Gauge: A must-have for measuring crabs before keeping them.
Bucket or Cooler: To store crabs before cooking.
Gloves: To protect hands from crab pinches.
How to Crab Off the Dock:
Bait Your Crab Ring or Trap
Attach bait securely inside the trap.
Lower the Trap into the Water
Drop the trap until it rests on the bay floor.
Leave the trap for 10-20 minutes before pulling it up.
Pull Up Quickly & Check Your Catch
Pull straight up to prevent crabs from escaping.
Measure Dungeness crabs and release any undersized or female crabs.
Keep only legal-sized crabs in a bucket with seawater or on ice, toss the rest back into the bay.
Cooking & Cleaning Your Catch:
Cooking: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.
Add a generous amount of salt (about 1/4 cup per gallon of water).
Drop in live crabs and boil for 12-15 minutes.
Once cooked, cool crabs in ice water.
Cleaning: Remove the top shell and discard the gills.
Rinse out the guts and break the crab in half.
Enjoy fresh or use in crab cakes, soups, or dips!
Tips for a Successful Crabbing Trip:
Check tide charts before heading out.
Use fresh bait for better results.
Be patient! Crabbing takes time, so enjoy the process.
Respect regulations and release undersized/female crabs.
Dress warmly as coastal weather can be chilly and windy.
Where to Buy or Rent Gear in Lincoln City
If you don’t have crabbing gear, you can rent or buy equipment at:
The Jetty Fishery
Kelly's Brighton Marina
Local bait and tackle shops
Crabbing off the dock in Lincoln City is an enjoyable and rewarding experience for locals and visitors alike. With the right gear, knowledge, and patience, you can catch fresh, delicious crabs while taking in the beautiful coastal scenery. Follow the regulations, use good bait, and have fun!
