Dungeness crab season delayed again along California coast. Here’s why and how long

Commercial fishing of Dungeness crab along California’s coastline has been delayed again, according to the Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Migrating humpback whales are still present off the coast of San Francisco and risk getting caught in crab traps as they migrate south. It’s the second delay this season and the fourth consecutive year the season has been pushed back.

Commercial crabbing is delayed until at least Dec. 16, and CDFW officials said there’s a possibility the season will be pushed back further. The next risk assessment is scheduled for Dec. 7.

Early November aerial surveys observed 39 whales in fishing zone 3, which runs from the Sonoma/Mendocino county borders south to Monterey, the department stated in a press release Monday.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration commercial whale-watching trips have been averaging 11.9 sightings along fishing zone 4, along the Monterey coast, with peak sightings of 22 humpback whales.

Calving and mating season takes place during the winter season on the central coast of California, according to NOAA Fisheries.

To the north, delays are due to low crab meat quality.

Is recreational fishing for Dungeness crab allowed?

Yes, it has been since Nov. 5, but only with hoop nets and crab snares. In zones 1 and 2 on the north coast, recreational fishing with traps will be allowed starting Nov. 28.

This story was originally published November 22, 2022 at 12:25 PM.