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2024 Dungeness Crab Regulations
The Essential Crab Gauge:
A Must-Have (Legally) for Dungeness Crab Fishing in California
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Upcoming Regulation Dates:
| Region | Location & Coordinates (Use the Google Map above for guidance) | Upcoming Status | Date |
| Part of San Francisco Distric | South of the Sonoma/Mendocino county line to Pigeon Point (37° 11’ lat.) | Closes (Season Ends) | June 30, 2024 |
| Central Region North | 37°11 N. Latitude (Pigeon Point in San Mateo County) to 36°00 N. Latitude (near Lopez Point, Monterey County) | Closes (Season Ends) | June 30, 2024 |
| Central Region South | 36°00 N. Latitude (near Lopez Point, Monterey County) to 34°27 N. Latitude (Point Conception, Santa Barbara County) | Closes (Season Ends) | June 30, 2024 |
Disclaimer: For official regulations and any changes, please refer to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). This information is intended for reference and informational purposes only.
Why You Need to Carry a Crab Gauge When Going for Dungeness Crab in California
If you’re planning to catch Dungeness crab in California, one essential tool you must carry is a crab gauge. This small but crucial device ensures that every crab you catch meets the state’s strict size regulations. Here’s why it’s a must-have:
1. Legal Requirement: California law mandates that Dungeness crabs must be at least 5.75 inches across the carapace, and you are legally required to carry a crab gauge to measure your catch. Not having a crab gauge on you can result in fines and penalties if you’re found with undersized crabs.
2. Conservation Efforts: Adhering to size regulations helps preserve crab populations. Releasing undersized crabs allows them to mature and reproduce, contributing to a sustainable fishing future.
3. Fair Fishing: Using a crab gauge ensures fair play among all anglers. It maintains a level playing field where everyone abides by the same rules, fostering a responsible and respectful fishing community.
4. Maximizing Your Haul: Measuring crabs with a gauge ensures you keep only the legally permissible ones, optimizing your catch for quality rather than quantity. This practice leads to better, more rewarding fishing experiences.
Before your next crabbing trip, make sure a crab gauge is in your gear bag. It’s a small investment that pays off big in legal peace of mind, conservation, and fishing success.
