The Outdoor Line Forum

Anyone know if this map applies to crabs?

https://fortress.wa.gov/doh/eh/maps/bio ... toxin.html

That site documents filter-feeding mollusk toxicity levels.

The phenomena at work here is that filter-feeding clams, mussels and oysters work a tremendous amount of seawater through their systems in order to filter out enough phyto and zooplankton to make a living. Unfortunately, that large quantity of water also has some toxins that can be harmful to humans.

Crabs and shrimp are crustaceans that occupy a niche a bit higher in the food chain. In other words, drop those pots and enjoy your dungeness crab!

Awesome!!!!!!!!

I just came across this from the Washington State Dept of Health

Puget Sound crab get “two pinchers up” for safe eating


Analysis shows low level of contaminants; spot prawn heads & crab butter should be limited


OLYMPIA –Washington State Department of Health (DOH) issued the first consumption advisory for Puget Sound Dungeness crab and spot prawn today.

In partnership with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), testing and analysis was done to find out where, how much and how often Dungeness crab or spot prawn can be safely eaten.

Dungeness crab meat and spot prawn tails can be eaten safely by following the guidelines on the Puget Sound Dungeness Crab and Spot Prawn Consumption Advisory.

Crab butter and spot prawn heads have high levels of contaminants, and can only be safely eaten when harvested from a small number of locations and in limited amounts. Locations where contaminants are a concern can be found in the advisory.

Shellfish and fish are important parts of a healthy diet. Understanding the health benefits along with potential risks of contaminants is important.

The best advice is, "eat fish, be smart, and choose wisely!"

Information on areas where shrimping and crabbing are allowed is on the WDFW website.

The Department of Health website (doh.wa.gov) is your source for a healthy dose of information. Also, find us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.