Alaska
Guide

Alaska Crab Fishing

Crab fishing in Alaska is an important part of the Alaskan economy. Crabs caught in Alaska are shipped all over the world. Alaska is known for its large king crab populations, although this has declined dramatically over the past few seasons.

Crab fishing takes place in the winter months of October to January off the coast of Alaska. There are three species of king crab caught during this season. These are the red king crab, blue king crab and the golden king crab. Importantly, there are strict quotas on the numbers and types of crabs which can be caught.

Crab fishing season is generally quite short with red king crabs only being able to be caught during a period of four days. Crab fishing is a highly dangerous job with many fatalities being recorded due to drowning and hypothermia as well as injuries from heavy machinery.

King crabs have declined in population due to the millions of pounds caught each year. Regulations have been stepped up to ensure that populations recover again. For this reason the golden king crab is becoming the largest catch rather than the preferred and prized red king crab.

Animal rights groups continually campaign against crab fishing in Alaska due to the suffering the crabs undergo when plucked from the water. Some freeze and burst, others attack each other in the cramped conditions.

Discovery Channel aired a documentary (also available on DVD) called Deadliest Catch which tells the story of this dangerous industry.

Next article:

• The Best Alaska Fishing Books