If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience on the Oregon Coast, crabbing in Winchester Bay should be at the top of your list. Nestled where the Umpqua River meets the Pacific, this charming coastal town is one of the best spots in Oregon for catching Dungeness crab—whether you’re dropping pots from a boat or casting off the public dock. In this post, I’ll walk you through our crabbing adventure, share essential tips, and explain everything you need to know about licenses, gear, and timing. Whether you’re a first-time crabber or a seasoned coastal explorer, Winchester Bay offers a fun, family-friendly way to enjoy the beauty and bounty of the Pacific Northwest.
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Why Crabbing in Winchester Bay Is Special
The Umpqua River Estuary is one of the largest in Oregon and provides excellent habitat for Dungeness crab. Winchester Bay offers multiple spots to try your luck, from the marina to the public crabbing dock that extends a full 700 feet into the river.
Even if you don’t catch any keepers, it’s hard to beat the view and the fresh sea air. And if you’re craving crab without the effort? Winchester Bay has some of the freshest seafood restaurants on the coast.
A Trip Down Memory Lane
Growing up in Oregon, I spent many weekends crabbing with my dad at Tillamook Bay. That hands-on experience stuck with me, and returning to it after more than 30 years was like reconnecting with an old friend. After Oregon lifted COVID-19 restrictions for non-residents, Lisa and I jumped at the chance to try our luck in Winchester Bay.
Our Crabbing Adventure
We arrived at the dock about two hours after low tide—not the ideal timing. Crabs tend to be most active around slack tide, especially an hour or two before and after high tide. Lesson learned.
We baited our single pot with three chicken legs and dropped it into the bay for about an hour. When we pulled it up, we were thrilled to see 11 Dungeness crabs—none of which were legal size.
After a few more attempts, including one female we had to throw back and a malfunctioning trap that let some crabs escape, we wrapped up with a total catch of… zero keepers. Still, we had a blast and learned a lot for our next outing.
Oregon Crabbing License Requirements
To go crabbing in Oregon, anyone over 12 needs a shellfish license—separate from a fishing license. You can buy one online or at most coastal marinas and bait shops.
Each person is allowed:
- 3 crab pots, rings, or lines
- 12 male Dungeness crabs per day, each at least 5 ¾” wide
- No female Dungeness crabs allowed
Boat Crabbers Must:
- Use biodegradable gear like cotton lines that break down if lost
- Mark their floats with their name and either address, phone number, ODFW ID, or boat ID
How to Catch Dungeness Crab in Oregon
Crabbing is super accessible. Here’s a basic guide to get you started:
Step 1: Bait Your Trap
Chicken legs are my go-to, but you can also use:
- Turkey necks
- Fish carcasses
- Clams or shad
Pro Tip: Use a bait box or bag to keep seals and sea lions from stealing your bait.
Step 2: Drop Your Pot
Ideal depth is 20–30 feet. Let your pot soak for 15–60 minutes, then pull and repeat. Space your traps out to avoid competition with yourself.
Step 3: Pull and Sort
Separate males from females, and measure across the carapace (not including the spines). Only keep males that are 5 ¾” or larger.
Pro Tip: Grab crabs between the back legs to avoid a nasty pinch.
Step 4: Store and Transport
Keep your catch alive in a cooler or bucket without water. Water can suffocate them if left too long.
Step 5: Cook and Enjoy
Boil your crab in saltwater for about 15 minutes per 2 lb crab. You can use ocean water or salt your own.
Gear & Cost
You don’t need much to get started:
- A crab pot setup costs around $65 when you buy 2
- Bait is cheap and easy to find
- Rentals are available at many marinas and bait shops
Recommended Crabbing Gear
If you’re looking to get started crabbing on the Oregon Coast, this high-quality crab pot setup is a great option. It’s similar to what we used in Winchester Bay—and it’s built to last season after season.
What Else to Do in Winchester Bay
Even if the crabbing is slow, Winchester Bay offers:
- Fishing opportunities in the Umpqua River and ocean
- Camping nearby, including RV parks
- Seafood restaurants serving the day’s catch
- Sand dunes and scenic drives nearby
Other Things to See and Do on the Oregon Coast
Final Thoughts
Crabbing in Winchester Bay was a nostalgic return to my roots—and despite the lack of keepers, it was still a highlight of our trip. Next time you’re exploring the Oregon Coast, carve out a day to drop some pots. You might just walk away with dinner!
Have you been crabbing on the Oregon Coast? Share your favorite spots or tips in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!
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