Crabbing results were not awesome. The outer bay had some crab for those that worked it hard. I heard the northern part of the bay was full, not so much with crab but with crabbers. Sounds like fun. Inside Tomales Bay the king tides have made for, I guess, king currents? Whatever they're called, the strong currents between the higher high and lower low are making for lots of lost gear. Lots. The high tides also make launching for us impossible, as we wont get our tractors in the salt water. Some folks are deciding to go it on their own. The low tide in the afternoon is making it difficult for both them and us to pull the boats out. A rising tide floats all boats, as they say, but the falling tide seems to make it difficult for everybody, too. 

   Also, it's official; still no traps here (Zone 3): "

California Department of Fish and Wildlife Risk Assessment and Mitigation Program Update

November 21, 2022

California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) Director Charlton H. Bonham has assessed entanglement risk under the Risk Assessment Mitigation Program (RAMP) and continued the temporary trap restriction for the recreational crab fishery in Fishing Zones 3-6 due to elevated entanglement risk. However, the recreational crab trap restriction for Fishing Zones 1 and 2 will be lifted on Nov. 28, 2022 at 9 a.m. CDFW reminds crabbers that take of Dungeness crab by other methods, including hoop nets and crab snares, is allowed during a temporary trap restriction. The commercial Dungeness crab fishery in Fishing Zones 3-6 is further delayed due to continued presence of humpback whales and the potential for entanglement. The commercial Dungeness crab fishery opener has also been delayed in Fishing Zones 1 and 2 due to poor meat quality results. The next risk assessment and round of quality testing is expected to occur on or before December 7, 2022. This will inform a potential December 16, 2022 opener. The full news release can be found at the CDFW News Room and for more information, please visit CDFW’s Whale Safe Fisheries Webpage.

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