Catch Your Limit: Winchester Bay Crabbing Charter

Crabbing Adventure in Winchester Bay

Get ready for a taste of the Pacific Northwest's finest seafood tradition with our 2-hour crabbing trip in Winchester Bay, Oregon. This hands-on adventure lets you haul in your own Dungeness crabs straight from the rich waters of the Pacific. It's a perfect mix of outdoor fun and culinary delight that'll have you hooked from the moment you step aboard.

Trip Overview

Our crabbing charters run from December 1st through October 14th, giving you plenty of chances to get out on the water. You'll be joining a small group of up to 12 guests, making for a cozy and personalized experience. At $100 per person, it's an affordable way to spend a morning or afternoon doing something truly unique. Whether you're a local looking for a fresh catch or a visitor wanting to try something quintessentially Oregon, this trip delivers big time. And the best part? You can take home up to 12 Dungeness crabs per person - that's a lot of crab feasts in your future!

Crabbing 101

If you've never been crabbing before, don't sweat it. Our experienced crew will show you the ropes (literally). We use crab pots, which are basically underwater traps baited to lure in those tasty crustaceans. You'll help drop the pots overboard, then comes the exciting part - pulling them back up to see what you've caught! It's a bit of a workout, but the anticipation makes it all worthwhile. While we wait for the crabs to find our pots, you'll get to soak in the stunning Oregon coastline. Keep your eyes peeled for seals, sea lions, and maybe even a whale spout in the distance.

What Crabbers Are Saying

"Very kind. Great time with kids!" - Brian

All About Dungeness Crab

Dungeness crab is the star of the show on this trip, and for good reason. These hefty crustaceans are prized for their sweet, tender meat and can weigh up to 2 pounds each. They're named after Dungeness, Washington, but we think Oregon's are the best (don't tell our northern neighbors). Dungeness crabs love sandy and muddy bottoms, which is why Winchester Bay is such a hotspot. They're most active at night, but our pots do a great job of luring them in during the day too. The best part? Dungeness crab is considered a sustainable seafood choice, so you can enjoy your catch guilt-free. Fun fact: these crabs can regrow lost limbs, which is pretty handy in the rough and tumble world under the waves.

Why Winchester Bay Rocks

Winchester Bay isn't just any old fishing port - it's a crabber's paradise. Nestled where the Umpqua River meets the Pacific, it's got the perfect mix of nutrients and habitat to support a thriving crab population. The protected waters of the bay make for smoother crabbing, even when the open ocean's a bit choppy. Plus, the scenery is knockout gorgeous. You've got the rugged Oregon coast on one side and the lush coastal forests on the other. It's the kind of place that makes you glad to be alive, especially when you're hauling in a pot full of crabs.

What to Bring & What to Expect

Dress for the weather and expect to get a little wet and salty. Layers are your friend out here - the coast can be chilly even in summer. Bring a waterproof jacket, sunscreen (yes, even on cloudy days), and maybe a hat. We provide all the crabbing gear, but feel free to bring a camera to capture your big catches. Oh, and don't forget to bring a big cooler for your haul - you'll want to get those crabs on ice ASAP. The boat has some cover, but you'll want to be out on deck for the action, so be prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws our way.

Crab Feast 101

So you've caught your limit of crabs - now what? First off, pat yourself on the back because you're in for some seriously good eating. Dungeness crab is delicious simply steamed and served with melted butter and lemon. But if you're feeling adventurous, try making crab cakes, crab linguine, or even a crab eggs benedict for breakfast. Just remember, the fresher the crab, the better it tastes. That's why catching your own is such a treat - it doesn't get any fresher than right off the boat.

Family-Friendly Fun

This trip isn't just for the hardcore anglers - it's a blast for the whole family. Kids love the excitement of pulling up the pots and seeing what's inside. It's like a marine treasure hunt! Plus, it's a great way to teach them about marine ecology, sustainable fishing, and where their food comes from. Just be warned: once they taste fresh-caught crab, they might turn their noses up at the store-bought stuff.

Beyond the Boat

While the crabbing is the main event, Winchester Bay has plenty more to offer. After your trip, take a stroll along the marina, check out the local seafood markets, or head to the nearby Oregon Dunes for some sandboarding or ATV riding. If you're making a weekend of it, Umpqua Lighthouse State Park is just a stone's throw away and offers great hiking and whale watching opportunities.

Book Your Crabbing Adventure

Ready to get your hands on some of Oregon's finest seafood? This Winchester Bay crabbing trip is calling your name. It's more than just fishing - it's a chance to connect with the ocean, learn a new skill, and make memories that'll last way longer than your crab dinner (though that'll be pretty unforgettable too). Spots fill up fast, especially during peak season, so don't wait to book your adventure. Whether you're a local looking for a fun day out or a visitor wanting an authentic Oregon coast experience, this trip delivers. So grab your friends, round up the family, and let's go crabbing!