Crab Trapping in California: A Complete Guide to Regulations and Best Practices

For many California anglers, crab trapping is a beloved tradition and crab feasts are a treasured part of the culture But can you legally use crab traps in California? And if so, what rules and regulations apply? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about crabbing with traps in the Golden State

Are Crab Traps Allowed in California?

Yes, crab traps are legal to use recreationally in California under certain conditions. Here are some key facts about crab trap regulations in CA:

• A Crab Trap Validation is required for each trap being used even without a fishing license. They cost $2.42 and can be purchased online.

• Usage is restricted by season, size limits, and daily bag limits which vary by location. Check current regulations.

• Trap requirements include:

  • Surface buoys for identification

  • Minimum buoy sizes and attachment distances

  • Escape ports for undersized crabs

  • Destruct devices if lost

• Trap limits are 10 traps per person, with permission to service 10 more.

• Geographic restrictions exist, such as no use south of Point Arguello.

• Temporary bans may be enacted due to whale entanglement risk.

Crab Trap Restrictions and Whale Entanglements

One of the major reasons crab traps are restricted in California is due to the risk of marine wildlife entanglements. Humpback whales, blue whales, leatherback sea turtles and other species are vulnerable to becoming caught in the ropes and buoys attached to traps.

To reduce entanglements, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife institutes temporary crab trap prohibitions in high risk areas when whales are actively feeding. Restrictions may be in place for weeks or months depending on the continued presence of whales.

Instead of traps, anglers can use hoop nets, snares or hand collection during these closures. Following best practice guidelines can also help avoid entanglements.

Surface Gear Marking Requirements

Properly marked surface gear is critical for identifying crab traps and avoiding loss. California regulations require:

• A main buoy 5 inches wide x 11 inches long with the owner’s GO ID number.

• A secondary red buoy 3 inches wide x 5 inches long no more than 3 feet from the main buoy.

• No additional buoys or markers attached to the trap.

Proper marking allows the owner to be identified if a lost trap becomes a ghost pot risk. The required destruct device will cause the trap to open after a period of time if lost.

Essential Crab Trap Features and Specs

In addition to properly marked surface gear, all crab traps used in California must contain:

• At least two 4.25 inch minimum diameter rigid circular escape ports located within 5 inches of the top of the trap.

• A destruct device made of untreated cotton twine size 120 or smaller that will create at least a 5 inch opening in the top or upper half of the trap.

• No metal or other hard material may be used in place of the destruct device.

These features allow undersize and female crabs to escape and prevent lost traps from continuing to catch crabs indefinitely if not recovered.

geographic restrictions

• Crab traps may only be used north of Point Arguello in Santa Barbara County. They are prohibited in Southern California.

• Within San Francisco Bay and San Pablo Bay, no crab traps are allowed. Hoop nets and snares are permitted.

• Seasonal closures and temporary bans may be enacted for protected whale migration and feeding areas.

These limitations primarily help protect whale populations from gear entanglements in waters where they feed or migrate.

Best Practices for Recreational Crab Trapping

While traps are allowed with proper regulation compliance, here are some tips for trapping crabs responsibly:

• Avoid excess rope and minimize attachments to reduce entanglement risks.

• Service traps frequently and remove derelict gear if spotted.

• Inspect traps for wear and entangled wildlife. Remove entangled animals with extreme care if found. Report all entanglements.

• When not in use, store crab traps on land. Do not leave in the water.

• Learn whale migration patterns and avoid setting gear in transit corridors.

• Follow all seasonal and geographic closures and advisories.

With sound judgment and responsible practices, crab trapping can be safely enjoyed while also protecting marine mammals. Careful trap placement and proper maintenance helps minimize conflicts.

Alternatives to Crab Trapping in California

If you want to avoid the regulations, hassles and risks of crab traps, other crabbing options exist:

• Crab snares and crab hoop nets allow crab harvesting without excess ropes.

• Pier or shore crabbing with hand nets is lower risk and open year round.

• Shrimp traps or hoop nets can let you still enjoy trapped catches.

• Purchasing crab from reputable, sustainable providers supports the fishery without doing it yourself.

While the tradition of crab trapping runs deep, modern realities necessitate updated practices. With smart precautions, crabbers and wildlife can successfully coexist in our ocean waters.

Crabbing by the Rules for a Sustainable Fishery

With rising demand for seafood, responsible crabbing is essential for sustaining crab populations. Follow the regulations, use best practices, avoid overharvesting, and help preserve our shared ocean resources. Armed with the right information, California anglers can enjoy trapping crabs for generations to come.