Dungeness Crab
Metacarcinus magister
Also known as: Dungies; Dungie
Size & Weight
Average Length
6.0"
Max Length
10.0"
Average Weight
1.5 lbs
Max Weight
4.0 lbs
Lifespan
8 years
Habitat
Depth Range
0 - 750 ft
Water Temp
38-65°F
Sandy/muddy bottoms; eelgrass beds; bays; estuaries
Behavior
Spawning Season
Spring-fall mating; eggs carried Oct-Dec
Migration: Seasonal movements; deeper in summer; inshore fall/winter
Diet: Scavenger/predator: bivalves; worms; shrimp; fish; crabs
Fishing Tips
PNW Season
Dec-Aug varies by state; closed during molt
Techniques: Crab pots/traps; rings; snares
Best Bait: Fish carcasses; chicken/turkey legs; clams
Eating Quality
Edibility
Excellent
Sweet; delicate; premium crab meat
Fun Facts
Named after Dungeness Spit WA; only males harvested; must molt to grow; females store sperm 2+ years
How to Identify
Brown coloration; found sand/muddy bottoms; pointed lateral teeth; major commercial species
Official Resources
Sources: WDFW; ODFW; CDFW
Change History (Last updated Feb 02, 2026 at 10:33 AM)
| Date | Change | Old Value | New Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 02, 2026 10:33 AM | Updated Max Length | — | 10.0 |
| Feb 02, 2026 10:33 AM | Updated Avg Length | — | 6.0 |