5.0(2 Reviews)Dungeness Crabbing Charter – Reedsport, Oregon
5.0(2 reviews)
Shared Trip
Inshore Fishing
One-hour Dungeness crab charter in calm inshore watersAll gear provided with hands-on pot setting instructionKeep legal limit catch with optional cleaning service
Looking for a quick but rewarding coastal adventure? This one-hour Dungeness crabbing charter out of Reedsport puts you right in the heart of Oregon's prime crabbing grounds. Whether you're a first-timer wanting to learn the ropes or an experienced angler short on time, this shared trip delivers hands-on action in the calm inshore waters where Dungeness crabs thrive. Captain Dave and the Ocean Obsession Guide Service crew know these waters like the back of their hand, and they're ready to show you how to work crab pots like a pro. You'll walk away with fresh Pacific Northwest seafood and stories worth telling – all in just one hour on the water.
This charter keeps things simple but effective. You'll meet your guide at the Reedsport marina and board a fully equipped vessel that's been set up specifically for crabbing success. The boat features wheelchair accessibility and onboard facilities, making it comfortable for everyone in your group. Once you're underway, your captain will navigate to productive crabbing spots in the protected inshore waters around Reedsport, areas known for holding good numbers of keeper-sized Dungeness. The calm conditions make this trip perfect for families with kids or anyone who gets queasy in rough seas. Your guide handles all the navigation and boat positioning, so you can focus on learning the techniques and enjoying the experience. No prior crabbing knowledge required – your captain will teach you everything from proper bait selection to reading the bottom structure where crabs like to hang out.
All the crabbing gear comes provided, which means you don't need to invest in pots, rings, or specialized equipment before your trip. Your guide will show you how to properly bait the crab pots using the most effective baits for Dungeness crabs in these waters. You'll learn the ins and outs of pot placement, including how to read the tide, current, and bottom structure to maximize your chances. The actual process involves dropping baited pots to the seafloor, waiting for crabs to enter, then hauling them back up to check your catch. Your captain will demonstrate proper crab handling techniques, including how to measure for legal size limits and distinguish between male and female crabs. Oregon regulations are strict about crab harvesting, so you'll get a crash course in identifying keepers versus throwbacks. The hands-on approach means you'll be actively involved in every step, from baiting pots to pulling in your harvest.
"If there was an option for 500% I would select it. Hands down a solid good person which we all know there is very few like him left. His boat is accessible to all including wheelchair bound folks. Bathroom on board and well you also get to spend an amazing day on the big pond with Dave." - Rhett
"Great crabbing trip! Captain Dave was awesome and professional and friendly and, oh yes, made sure we got our limit of crab! highly recommend ... and hope to have the opportunity to go again!" - Susan Crowder
Dungeness crabs are the crown jewel of Pacific Northwest shellfish, and the waters around Reedsport offer some of Oregon's most consistent crabbing action. These crabs typically range from 6 to 8 inches across the shell, with males generally running larger than females. Only male Dungeness crabs measuring at least 5¾ inches can be legally harvested, which your guide will help you measure accurately. Peak crabbing season runs from December through August, though the best action often happens during the winter and spring months when crabs are most active in shallow water. Dungeness crabs prefer sandy or muddy bottoms where they can bury themselves and hunt for food, which makes the protected bays and estuaries around Reedsport perfect habitat. What makes these crabs so sought after is their sweet, delicate meat that's considered some of the finest seafood on the West Coast. A single legal-sized male can yield a substantial amount of meat from both the body and claws, making them incredibly rewarding to catch. These crabs are also surprisingly strong and can deliver a solid pinch, so your guide will show you proper handling techniques to avoid getting nipped while ensuring the crabs stay healthy until you're ready to cook them.
This one-hour Dungeness crabbing charter offers the perfect introduction to Oregon's coastal bounty without requiring a full day commitment. You'll learn valuable skills, potentially fill your legal limit of premium seafood, and experience the satisfaction of harvesting your own dinner from the Pacific. The combination of expert guidance, provided equipment, and productive local waters makes this trip an outstanding value for both beginners and experienced crabbers looking for a quick but productive outing. Captain Dave's reputation for putting guests on crabs, combined with the accessible boat setup and professional approach, has made this charter a customer favorite among locals and visitors alike. Crab cleaning and packing services may be available depending on conditions, so discuss your needs with your guide when booking. Don't wait too long to secure your spot – word travels fast about top-rated crabbing charters, and the best dates fill up quickly during peak season. Book your Reedsport Dungeness crabbing adventure today and get ready to experience why Oregon's coast is renowned for some of the Pacific's finest shellfish harvesting.
The 31' Raider cuts through Oregon's coastal waters with serious power, thanks to twin 300HP Suzuki engines that can push this fishing machine up to 50 knots when you need to cover ground fast. Built for serious crabbing, she's equipped with everything you need to locate and haul Dungeness crab from the productive waters around Reedsport. The fish finder helps pinpoint the best spots, while GPS and radar keep you on course and safe in changing conditions. With comfortable seating for up to 9 anglers, an icebox to keep your catch fresh, and even a multimedia system for the ride out, this boat balances fishing functionality with comfort. The wireless trolling motor lets you work the crab pots quietly without spooking anything below. Wheelchair accessible with a convenient side entry door, plus an onboard head for longer trips. Whether you're dropping pots in the bay or running out to deeper water, the Raider handles coastal conditions with confidence while giving you the platform you need for a successful day of crabbing.
5.0 out of 5.0If there was an option for 500% I would select it. Hands down a solid good person which we all know there is very few like him lef...
Great crabbing trip! Captain Dave was awesome and professional and friendly and, oh yes, made sure we got our limit of crab! hi...
Oregon