Domoic acid (DA) is a naturally occurring toxin that can sometimes appear in crab. Testing is conducted in designated coastal sampling areas under state and federal protocols. A sampling area can only be cleared to open based on DA when test results show levels are below the state’s regulatory action level. If an initial sample exceeds that level, the area remains closed for DA until two additional sample sets, collected from the same area at least seven days apart, both show levels below the threshold.

Crab quality refers to meat recovery percentage. In the Northern Management Area (NMA), quality is evaluated under Tri-State Protocols, established by California, Oregon, and Washington. Testing at determines whether crab meet the minimum meat recovery percentage required. If results do not meet that standard, the area remains closed for quality until follow-up testing confirms the required level. The Central Management Area does not have crab quality test requirements.

Risk Assessments are conducted under the Risk Assessment and Mitigation Program (RAMP) to evaluate whale entanglement risk and determine whether adjustments to the commercial Dungeness crab fishery are necessary. These assessments occur on a scheduled basis using available data sources. The Dungeness Crab Gear Working Group does not make decisions; it provides recommendations for the CDFW Director’s consideration under RAMP. The Director has the authority to delay, modify, or close an area based on these assessments.

The table above shows recent confirmed entanglement reports and their associated impact scores under RAMP. This data was verified by CDFW 10/22/25.

The commercial Dungeness crab fishery will be delayed in all Fishing Zones due to numerous reported entanglements this year, high abundance of humpback whales, and presence of leatherback sea turtles. This delay will allow whales and sea turtles to migrate out of California waters prior to the opening of the commercial fishery. This delay was broadly supported by the Dungeness Crab Fishing Gear Working Group and the Pacific Coast Federation of Fisherman’s Association (PCFFA).

“Another year of a delayed commercial Dungeness crab season is incredibly difficult for our fleet and port communities. However, given the current risk assessment process, the commercial fleet supported this outcome as the most practical path forward,” said Lisa Damrosch, PCFFA Executive Director. “We appreciate CDFW and Director Bonham listening to input from the Dungeness Crab Gear Working Group and providing the needed clarity for planning. Although none of this is easy, we thank CDFW for their responsiveness, which reflects the cooperation that will be essential to meeting the challenges ahead for this fishery and our fleet.”

CDFW anticipates the next risk assessment will take place in mid-December to inform a possible opening of the commercial fishery around the New Year.

During the mid-December Risk Assessment, the CDFW Director will evaluate all available data, including a recommendation from the Dungeness Crab Fishing Gear Working Group to determine whether the commercial fishery can open.

Beginning in the 2025–26 season, all surface (trailer) line must be marked in purple and black. Line may be manufactured with two purple strands and one black strand, or painted in alternating solid purple and black bands (6–12 inches, full circumference) and maintained so the colors remain visible.

The upper 15 fathoms of vertical line will be phased in over several seasons, with full implementation by 2028–29.

Buoy ID rules have not changed. There is no new “D” buoy marking requirement.

Description Beginning in the 2025–26 season, all vessels must have an approved EM unit installed and transmitting before fishing. Archipelago is the current approved provider, and the device must have an active subscription that automatically sends location data to CDFW. If you already have a unit, it must be installed and activated. Having the hardware by itself doesn’t meet the requirement. The hydraulic pressure sensor is optional under current guidance. Archipelago FishVue Lime devices have been distributed. Their website is being updated. For questions email whalesafefisheries@wildlife.ca.gov