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Washington State, with its extensive coastline and numerous water bodies, offers a plethora of opportunities for recreational crabbing. Among the various locales for this activity, Ocean Spray Beach Resort stands out as a prime destination for enthusiasts looking to indulge in the pursuit of the elusive Dungeness crab, as well as other species such as Red rock crab and Tanner crab.
What sets Ocean Spray Beach Resort apart is not just the abundance of crabs but the entire crabbing experience. The resort offers amenities and services that cater to crabbing enthusiasts, including guided crabbing tours and cooking facilities to enjoy the day's catch. This full-service approach allows guests to immerse themselves in the crabbing culture without the need for personal gear or extensive knowledge of the activity.
The resort's location offers an abundance of these crabs during the season, making for a rewarding experience for both novice and seasoned crabbers.
Established in the late 1800s, Tokeland Marina holds a storied history as one of Washington State's oldest and most cherished maritime destinations. Originally a hub for oyster cultivation and shipping, the marina played a crucial role in the economic development of the surrounding community. Over the years, Tokeland Marina has evolved into a beloved haven for fishermen, boaters, and nature enthusiasts, preserving its maritime heritage while offering a scenic retreat along the breathtaking shores of Willapa Bay.
Encountering our Captain, a seasoned mariner who has braved the tides for half a century, was an enriching experience. His generous sharing of knowledge on the delicate art of crabbing made this encounter truly unique, offering an unforgettable insight into the fascinating world of crustacean harvests.
We cruised to the perfect spot where traps, baited the night before, awaited the treasures of the deep. The crew member skillfully hauled the traps from the dark waters, revealing a bounty of Dungeness crabs. The excitement peaks as the crew shook the crabs loose from the traps - One, Two, Three…. with a total of ten traps.
Crew members measure the size of crabs. Legal-size Dungeness crabs are typically males with a carapace width of at least 6.25 inches, while Red rock crabs must be at least 5 inches across.
In total we caught 221 crabs, and kept 146 legal-size ones. Captain needs this data to prepare for the official crabbing season that will be open in few weeks.
Returning to the resort, each of us holds six crabs, making a total of 36 in 4 buckets.
Then we cook in the clam shed at resort.
Booking this crabbing adventure by sending inquiries at https://www.oceanspraybeachresort.net/contact/
The 2-hour tour departs from Ocean Spray Beach Resort, and transportation is self-drive. Ensure you have a shellfish license https://wdfw.wa.gov/licenses/fishing/types-fees for $17.40/adult, and children under 16 years old are exempt. Please bring a 5-gallon bucket for each person.
A mere 20-minute drive from the resort, meet with the captain for safety instructions before spending 30-40 minutes on the boat, observing trap picking, measurement, and counting. Seek tips from the captain on finding the best crabbing spots.
Enjoy some sightseeing at Tokeland Marina. Don't forget a visit to the Nelson Crab retail shop, before a 20-minute drive back. Conclude the day by cooking your crabs at the clam shed at the resort.
Prices start at $400 for 4 people, with an additional $60 per person. 6 crabs for about 10 lbs in total is included for each person (with license)
Receive 10% off if you stay at our Cottage Resort: https://www.oceanspraybeachresort.net/
