Do You Need a License to Crab in Virginia? A Guide to Recreational Crabbing Regulations

Crabbing is a popular summertime activity in Virginia’s coastal communities. With miles of shoreline and an abundance of blue crabs in the Chesapeake Bay and its tidal tributaries, there are ample opportunities for recreational crabbing. However, Virginia does have specific regulations regarding licensing requirements, seasons, gear, size limits, and possession limits. As an avid crabber myself, I’ll provide a comprehensive overview of recreational crabbing licenses, rules, and tips for an enjoyable day of crabbing in Virginia.

When Do You Need a Recreational Crabbing License in Virginia?

You do not need a recreational crabbing license for the following activities:

• Taking crabs by hand line, collapsible trap, dip net, or up to 2 commercial-style crab pots.

• Keeping up to 1 bushel of hard crabs and 2 dozen peeler crabs per person, per day.

You do need a license for the following recreational crabbing methods

• Crab trotline (up to 300 ft) – $10 annual license

• 1 crab trap/pound – $6 annual license

• 3-5 recreational crab pots with terrapin excluder devices (TEDs) – $36 annual license

• 3-5 recreational crab pots without TEDs – $46 annual license

Recreational crabbing licenses can be obtained from Virginia Marine Resources Commission offices, license agents, or by mail. Only Virginia residents are eligible.

When is the Recreational Crabbing Season in Virginia?

The recreational crabbing season in Virginia tidal waters runs from March 17 through November 30 each year. It is illegal to place crab pots or trotlines outside of this season. Specific seasons for licensed gear:

• Up to 2 crab pots: March 17 – November 30
• 3-5 licensed crab pots: June 1 – September 15
• Crab trotline or pound/trap: April 15 – October 15

Recreational Crabbing Possession Limits in Virginia

All recreational crabbers, whether licensed or not, are limited to the following per person, per day:

• 1 bushel of hard crabs

• 2 dozen peeler crabs

One bushel is approximately 40 pounds of hard crabs.

Size and Egg-Bearing Restrictions

Recreational crabbers must adhere to size and egg-bearing crab regulations. Help conserve the blue crab population by only keeping legal sized crabs.

Minimum size (tip to tip of spikes):

• Hard crabs: 5 inches
• Peeler crabs:
  • March 17 – July 15: 3.25 inches
  • July 16 – November 30: 3.5 inches
• Soft crabs: 3.5 inches

Egg-bearing crabs:

• Must return darker brown/black-colored “sponge” crabs June 16 – March 15
• May only keep lighter orange sponge crabs March 17 – June 15

Tips for an Enjoyable Day of Recreational Crabbing

Now that you know the licensing and regulations, here are my tips for an awesome day of crabbing in Virginia:

• Seek local advice on best crabbing spots and target tributaries like the Rappahannock and York Rivers.

• Go during peak season from July to August when crabs are plentiful.

• Use chicken necks, fish, or razor clams for bait. Change bait frequently.

• Check traps every 20-30 minutes and rebait to keep crabs trapped.

• Keep crabs cool and moist once caught. Don’t leave them sitting in the sun.

• Consider catch and release of undersized crabs and egg-bearing females.

• Be mindful of other boaters when setting crab pots and trotlines.