CHARLESTON BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Two Hours on the Edge: Dungeness Crabbing and Coastal Wildlife off Charleston, Oregon
A focused 2-hour ocean charter that pairs targeted Dungeness crabbing with a close-in scenic run past sea lion haulouts and coastal landmarks—this guide explains what to expect, regulations, and how to plan.
Two Hours on the Edge: Dungeness Crabbing and Coastal Wildlife off Charleston, Oregon.
This two-hour outing carries you into the open ocean close to the shoreline for targeted Dungeness crabbing, with a scenic tour that takes in Simpson Reef’s sea‑lion haulouts, Baltimore Rock, the Tenmile Creek inlet and other coastal highlights.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Dungeness crabbing up close
The trip focuses on finding the larger Dungeness crab in season; anglers should be prepared to measure and keep legal male crabs within the per‑person limits.
Simpson Reef and sea‑lion viewing
The route passes Simpson Reef, a favored haulout where sea lions congregate—an easy wildlife encounter layered into the crabbing and scenic run.
Coastal landmarks and inlets
In addition to crabbing, expect memorable views of Baltimore Rock, the Tenmile Creek inlet and the nearshore shelves that make this stretch of coast compelling.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
Over two concentrated hours you’ll run into the nearshore ocean, set gear for Dungeness crab, and move between scenic points—short stints of active fishing punctuate time spent scanning reefs and inlets for wildlife.
THE CATCH
Dungeness crabbing up close
The trip focuses on finding the larger Dungeness crab in season; anglers should be prepared to measure and keep legal male crabs within the per‑person limits.
THE WILDLIFE
Simpson Reef and sea‑lion viewing
The route passes Simpson Reef, a favored haulout where sea lions congregate—an easy wildlife encounter layered into the crabbing and scenic run.
THE SCENERY
Coastal landmarks and inlets
In addition to crabbing, expect memorable views of Baltimore Rock, the Tenmile Creek inlet and the nearshore shelves that make this stretch of coast compelling.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and regulatory limits to know.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Crabbing is legal year‑round, but trips are normally best beginning in late July and lasting through February; book early as the trip fills up fast.
Confirm specific gear recommendations with the operator before departure; plan for a short (2‑hour) ocean outing and dress for wind, spray and cooler offshore temperatures.
The charter is priced at $75 per person and takes up to 6 people.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Dungeness crabbing and scenic tour?
The outing is a two‑hour trip.
How much does the charter cost?
The price is $75 per person.
How many people can the charter accommodate?
The charter takes up to 6 people.
When is crabbing best on this trip?
Crabbing in Oregon is legal year‑round but is normally best beginning in late July and lasting through February.
What are the legal limits for Dungeness and Red Rock crab?
The limit for Dungeness crab is 12 per person; Red Rock crab limits are 24 per person. Dungeness kept must be male and meet the legal size requirement.
What is the legal size requirement for Dungeness crab?
The legal size for Dungeness crab is 5 ft 3/4 inches across the back, measured in front of the spike on the widest part of the shell.