6-28-2018
OAK HARBOR, Wash. — With recreational crab fishing season scheduled to open this Saturday, June 30th in much of the Puget Sound, the state Department of Transportation is reminding fishers to keep crab pots and lines away from ferry lanes, docks and terminals.
The department says tangled lines caused three boats to temporarily be taken out of service last summer, causing hundreds of missed sailings.
Crabbing doesn’t open in Bellingham Bay until July 14th.
Improper deployment and disposal of nets and equipment can cause trouble for seals, porpoises, salmon, and other marine animals. For tips on protecting the habitat while catching more crab, check out these resources provided by the Northwest Straits Foundation.