Crabbing from our pontoon: where it’s allowed and the rules
Crabbing is open in Indian Arm and Burrard Inlet east of Second Narrows, and closed in Vancouver Harbour. Licences, size limits and what to bring.
Dropping a crab trap on the way out and pulling it on the way home makes a good rhythm for a full day. The rules matter here, because DFO has prosecuted people for illegal crabbing in Burrard Inlet and Indian Arm for years, and local crab stocks have suffered for it.
Where you can crab
Crabbing is allowed in Indian Arm and in Burrard Inlet east of the Ironworkers Memorial Bridge at Second Narrows. It’s closed in Vancouver Harbour, between Second Narrows and the Lions Gate Bridge. That puts Coal Harbour off limits, and most of our operating area open.
What you need
- **A tidal waters sport fishing licence** for each person crabbing.
- **Legal traps,** within the per-person trap limit, marked with your name as the rules require.
- **A crab gauge** to measure across the widest part of the shell.
What you can keep
- Males only. Return every female straight to the water.
- Dungeness crab must measure at least 165 mm (6.5 inches) across the shell.
- Red rock crab must measure at least 115 mm (4.5 inches).
- Stay within the daily limit.
Rules change, so check the current DFO regulations for Area 28 before your trip.
How to do it from our boat
- Bring your own traps, bait and rope long enough for the depth. Indian Arm gets deep close to shore.
- Set traps in water where the chart shows a sensible depth, away from docks and navigation channels.
- Mark your float clearly and note where you dropped it on your phone.
- Pull every trap before you come back. Don’t leave gear in the water after your rental.
Pair crabbing with fishing or a swim at Twin Islands while the traps soak. Book a full day.