Dungeness Crab Catching on Vancouver Island

Finding the prime time to capture Dungeness crabs on Vancouver Island is essential for maximizing your catch. Dungeness crab season, when they are most abundant and meaty, extends throughout the year; however, targeting them during specific months optimizes your success. The optimal time, known as the Best Time to Catch Dungeness Crabs on Vancouver Island, typically spans from October to January. During this period, these delectable crustaceans are at their largest, with numbers peaking following spawning.
It's important to note that the commercial crabbing season commences on July 1st. Thus, engaging in crab fishing during this period isn't advisable, as most Dungeness crabs will be undersized. To ensure a fruitful crabbing expedition, plan your outing between October and January for the best chances of success.
When considering what time of day is best for crabbing on Vancouver Island, targeting slack water, also known as slack tide, is paramount. Slack water refers to the interval between high and low tide when the water current is minimal. During this period, Dungeness crabs are less likely to be driven around by strong currents or waves, making them more accessible for foraging along the beach. So, to optimize your crabbing venture, aim for slack water times for the most fruitful harvest.

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If you're wondering, "where are the best Dungeness crab fishing spots near me," you're in luck because Vanisle Fishers have the answers. Crabbing is a year-round activity on Vancouver Island, ensuring fresh catches whenever you visit. Among the top Dungeness crabbing locations on Vancouver Island are Fanny Bay Pier, Port McNeil and Clam Cove Beach Trail, James Island Pier Near Sidney, and Port Renfrew Docks, renowned for its exceptional whale watching opportunities.
For those pondering, "where can I catch crabs from the shore," it's essential to first ensure that the area permits Dungeness Crab harvesting. Prime spots for shore crabbing include Swy-a-lagoon pier in Nanaimo, Victoria Sidney Pier, and Sooke.
If you find yourself in the capital city, Victoria, BC, consider crabbing at James Island Piers or the public docks in Sooke. Additionally, James Bay presents itself as a promising option for Dungeness crab enthusiasts. Explore these locations for a rewarding crabbing experience on Vancouver Island.

Catching Dungeness crabs on Vancouver Island is definitely something you would have to prepare in advance. Crabbing will let you catch these crustaceans freshly from the water. The good news is that gear for ocean crabbing, sea crabbing, or even river crabbing is different. The basics for joyful Dungeness crab fishing on Vancouver Island are:
Crab Trap: You may throw the net or the cage into the water.
Spool: A wire that connects your crab trap to a boat or dock (Some just use a stick or piece of wood, or you can wrap the line around your folding crab trap instead)
Bait Bag: This bait bag is a favourite among crabbing professionals. On the other hand, others swear by dollarama's bird suit cages. The bait bag that comes with the traps is OK, but it tears open with time, and you can't fit as much bait in it.
Zap Straps, Scissors, and Pliers: If needed, bring them for mending your catch.
Crab Bucket: To keep your catch safe! The best option is to use a bucket from a hardware shop. Just enough water to cover the Dungeness crab in the bucket. This enables them to lift their faces to obtain more air.
Crab Measuring Tool: To know how big your catch is.
Wagon or Cart: to transport your catch and equipment (it becomes heavy if you catch your limit!)
Gloves: When it comes to crabbing, you'll need gloves that adequately protect your hands, fingers, and wrists. The Dungeness crab's pinchers may easily break your hands' skin. This is not only unpleasant, but it also has the potential to get infected if not treated promptly.
Note that the last two gears mentioned above are entirely optional for your Dungeness crab harvesting on Vancouver Island.

In British Columbia, all fishermen must obtain a licence to fish in tidal (salt) waterways. Because many fishing spots lack an Independent Access Provider that offers fishing licences, it is preferable to acquire your licence online before heading out for a Dungeness crab harvest.
Annual licences are available and are valid from April 1 to March 31. To know more about fishing and crabbing licences on Vancouver Island, read our complete guide in this regard.