Catching Crayfish

Gathering Crayfish Basics

Equipment:

Method #1

• Wire mesh wastebasket, broom handle, 5 gallon bucket, books

• Can also be caught by hand or dip net

Method #2

• Crayfish pots - 2, rope, float with ID on it, bait (meat & fish products), bucket CRAYFISH POTS-2, ROPE, FLOAT WITH ID ON IT, BAIT (MEAT & FISH PRODUCTS) BUCKET*

• Generally need to soak pots 24-48 hours for best results

License:

• Shellfish License now needed in Washington, as of June 2024

Regulations:

• 10 pound limit

• Minimum 3-3/4 inch for native, any size for non-native

When:

• 1st Monday of May through October 31

Where:

• Slow moving water with rocks or weeds for crayfish to hide in. streams ditches lakes

Tips:

• Keep alive with fresh water until ready to cook

• I generally remove food vein from tail after cooking but before eating

Benefits:

Fun to catch, great eating – visit YouTube for recipe ideas.