Lobster Fishing In Washington

Lobster fishing in Washington is novel compared to East Coast lobster fishing in the way that most lobster fishing in Washington is done in freshwater. These freshwater lobsters, also known as crayfish, crawfish or crawdad's can be found in Washington streams, lakes and rivers and they are mostly caught for personal consumption.

Washington Lobster

Washington lobster fishing is fishing primarily for what Washington natives call "crayfish," according to the Washington Department of Fish and Game. There are even fisheries which hatch the crayfish to put out in the water. Crayfish are essentially freshwater lobsters.

Significance

Lobsters are a high-priced food because of their delicious flavor. In addition to their flavor, they are a low-fat food that is high in protein. Fish and shellfish are known for this and lobsters are no different. Lobster fishing in Washington is almost exclusively for private consumption.

Features

Lobster or crayfish fishing in Washington can be done using a crab or shellfish trap or a traditional lobster pot. These mesh like traps are positioned in the water with buoys indicating where they are and bait is placed to lure the lobsters into the traps. Recreational lobster fishing in Washington can be done using single wooden lobster pots that also have bait as traps. The lobsters crawl into the pot and then cannot get out.

Regulations

Washington Department of Fish and Game put a daily limit of 10 on native crayfish or lobster fish species while non-native species do not have a daily limit. Also, fishermen must return any and all females with eggs or young attached to the water immediately. No shellfish or seaweed license is required for lobster fishing in Washington.

Considerations

Lobster and crayfish fishing is best done in Washington during the proper season, which is the beginning of May through the end of October. Additionally, the Washington Department of Fish and Game suggests fishing for these types of shellfish at night near rocks, boulders and other coverings where they will hide.