Mussels The recreational harvesting of mussels is OPEN from the Columbia River to the California border. This includes all beaches, bays, rocks, piers, docks, etc.
Bay clamsThe recreational harvest of bay clams is OPEN along the entire Oregon Coast from the Columbia River to the California border.
Crab
Recreational crab harvest: Status map
Recreational crab harvesting is OPEN from the Columbia River to Bandon.
Recreational crab harvesting is CLOSED from Bandon to the California border for elevated levels of domoic acid toxin. Always check the ODFW website for season openings, rules and licensing requirements for recreational harvesting and recreational crab seasons. Call the ODFW Newport Office at 541-867-4741.
It is always recommended you eviscerate the crab and discard the "butter" (viscera or guts) prior to cooking. When whole crab are cooked in liquid, domoic acid may leach into the cooking liquid. It is recommended you discard the cooking liquid, and do not use it in other dishes, such as sauces, broths, soups, stews, stocks, roux, dressings, etc. The consumption of crab viscera is not recommended.
- Recreational seasons and licensing requirements: Visit the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife website.
- Commercial crabbing information: Visit the Commercial Crab Biotoxin Information webpage.