California Dungeness crab fishing restrictions

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has delayed the commercial Dungeness crab season, which spans from the Oregon border to Point Conception, until at least January 1, 2027. This decision was made to protect migrating humpback whales from entanglement in fishing gear. Data from the National Marine Fisheries Service showed 37 whale entanglements off the coasts of California, Oregon, and Washington during the first nine months of 2026, including 30 humpback whales, which represents the highest number since 2016.

While the commercial season is postponed, recreational fishing is scheduled to begin on November 7, 2026, in most areas. However, recreational crabbers are prohibited from using crab traps until at least January 1, though hoop nets and crab snares may be used under specific regulations.

Furthermore, certain waters from Cape Mendocino to the Ten Mile State Marine Reserve remain closed to both commercial and recreational fishing due to unhealthy levels of domoic acid, a neurotoxin caused by algal blooms. Officials plan to reassess whale risks in mid-December to determine if restrictions can be lifted earlier.