New crab regulations

December 16, 2021

Question: I understand there are new crab regulations including gear marking requirements for crab traps. Do I need the double buoy setup if I’m using crab rings to catch crab in northern California

Answer: We appreciate your interest in keeping up to date on recreational crabbing regulations. The new gear marking requirements only apply to crab traps as defined in regulation, and do not apply if you are using a ring/hoop net. See California Code of Regulations, Title 14, section 29.80(c). The regulations are available on CDFW’s website.

For more information, including frequently asked questions regarding the new regulations, please visit CDFW’s recreational crab fishery webpage at https://wildlife.ca.gov/Fishing/Ocean/Regulations/Sport-Fishing/Invertebrate-Fishing-Regs#crustaceans.