This year’s commercial Dungeness crab season has been delayed until at least December 16. Oregon’s crab have passed both meat fill and biotoxin tests, but the season cannot open until Oregon, Washington, and California all meet the shared West Coast standards.
Dungeness crab plays a major role in Oregon’s coastal economy. It is the state’s most valuable single species fishery, bringing tens of millions of dollars into coastal communities each year. In Newport, the fishery shapes fishermen’s earnings, processing jobs, and what appears on winter menus. A strong season supports hundreds of families and helps steady coastal economies during the quietest months of the year.
Before the season opens, state biologists run two critical tests. Meat fill tests measure whether crab are full enough to provide a quality product and ensure fishermen are not harvesting lightweight crab that will not command a fair price. Biotoxin tests detect domoic acid, confirming the crab entering the market is safe to eat. Some Washington test sites are still showing low meat fill, which remains the main reason for the delay.
Last year’s opener brought record starting dock prices due to strong demand and limited early supply. With a later and more coordinated opener this year, early indicators point toward a buyer’s market, with lower starting prices more likely.
The delay comes with real benefits. The crab will be fuller and higher quality. Fishermen will enter the season with more stable pricing. Oregon consumers will get a better product on day one.
We will continue to monitor updates and share news as soon as an official opener is announced. And when Oregon crab finally hits the docks, Amber and the team will be ready with the freshest of the fresh.
For more about Local Ocean in Newport, go to localocean.net
Follow Oregon Dungeness Crab Commission for updates on the season opening.
Learn more about Oregon seafood here: https://www.pnwseafood.net/oregon-seafood