California Delays Dungeness Crab Season Again Over Whale Safety and Toxin Concerns

The season could potentially open in mid-December if whale migration and toxin levels improve, but officials remain cautious.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has postponed the commercial Dungeness crab season for the second time this year due to risks of whale entanglements and domoic acid contamination.
High numbers of humpback and blue whales in fishing zones prompted the delay to allow their safe migration to winter breeding grounds.
Domoic acid, a toxin found in some northern crab samples, has prevented necessary meat quality testing and poses health risks to consumers.
The next assessment of whale activity and toxin levels is scheduled for early December, with the earliest possible season start date being December 15.
While conservationists support the restrictions, fishing industry representatives express concern over the economic impact on coastal communities but emphasize their commitment to responsible practices.