This article is about crabbing in Coos Bay, Oregon, as showcased in a video by The Weekenders. The video highlights their preparations in the morning, including getting their boat, gear, and crab pots ready. The content covers their experiences of crabbing and fishing in the bay, encountering seals, and discussing the roughness of the ocean. They also talk about the various activities that can be done in the bay, such as fishing and clamming. The video shows the process of catching and measuring the crabs, as well as discussing the legality of certain sea creatures and the disappointment of not being able to keep certain fish due to regulations. They share their success in catching several legal crabs and the enjoyment of cooking and eating them.
In conclusion, the article provides an insight into the world of crabbing in Coos Bay, Oregon, showcasing the adventures and experiences of The Weekenders. The video captures their excitement and preparations, as well as the thrill of catching crabs and encountering seals. It also explores the various activities available in the bay, and the satisfaction of enjoying a fresh seafood meal. Overall, the article offers a conversational and engaging exploration of crabbing in Coos Bay, Oregon.
Crabbing Equipment and Preparation
Table of Contents
The Weekenders’ tools for crabbing
The Weekenders are prepared for their crabbing adventure in Coos Bay, Oregon. They have a trailer and a West coaster boat that they plan to use for crabbing and bottom fishing. They also have fishing rods, fishing gear, and a cooler for their crab catch. With all these tools at their disposal, they are ready to set out and have a successful crabbing experience.
Setting up in the morning
In the morning, the Weekenders are busy getting everything set up for their crabbing trip. They make sure that their boat is in good condition and ready to go. They gather their pots, fishing rods, and other gear that they will need for the day. They pack their cooler with ice to keep their catch fresh. Once everything is prepared, the Weekenders are ready to head down to the water and start their crabbing adventure.
Choice of crab pots and fishing gear
The choice of crab pots and fishing gear is crucial for a successful crabbing trip. The Weekenders have decided to use three crab pots on this particular outing. They choose pots that are durable and can withstand the rough conditions of the ocean. They also make sure to bring along fishing gear in case they want to do some bottom fishing while they wait for their crab pots to soak.
The role of coolers in preserving the catch
Preserving the catch is essential in ensuring that it stays fresh and delicious. The Weekenders understand the importance of keeping their crabs chilled until they can be cooked. They bring a cooler with them to store their crab catch and fill it with ice to maintain the proper temperature. By taking these steps, they can enjoy the taste of fresh crab meat when they cook their catch later.
Location and Environment
Crabbing in Coos Bay
Coos Bay, Oregon is the perfect location for a crabbing adventure. The Weekenders have chosen this bay as their destination because of the abundance of crabs found in its waters. Coos Bay offers a variety of spots where they can drop their crab pots and have a good chance of catching a plentiful bounty of crabs.
The benefits of dockside crabbing
One of the advantages of crabbing in Coos Bay is that there are docks nearby where the Weekenders can easily drop their crab pots. Dockside crabbing allows for easy access to the water and saves them the hassle of having to launch their boat. It also provides them with a stable platform to work from while they prepare their pots and wait for them to soak.
The weather conditions
The Weekenders are fortunate to have chosen a day with pleasant weather for their crabbing trip. The temperature is around 70 degrees, making it a comfortable day to be out on the water. The clear skies and calm winds create ideal conditions for crabbing and fishing. The Weekenders are grateful for the favorable weather and anticipate a successful day on the water.
Water depth significance
Knowing the depth of the water is crucial when crabbing. The Weekenders mention that the water depth in Coos Bay is around 26 to 27 feet. This information is essential for determining the length of the rope they need to use when dropping their crab pots. By considering the water depth, they can ensure that their pots reach the bottom and maximize their chances of catching crabs.
Crabbing Excursion
Initial excitement and anticipation
As the Weekenders set out on their crabbing excursion, there is a sense of excitement and anticipation in the air. They have been looking forward to this day and are eager to see what the bay has in store for them. The prospect of catching crabs and experiencing the beauty of the ocean fills them with a sense of adventure and wonder.
Documenting the crabbing experience
The Weekenders are committed to capturing their crabbing experience on video. They want to document every aspect of their adventure, from setting up their gear to pulling in their catch. By recording their experiences, they hope to share their love for crabbing with others and inspire them to try it themselves.
Experiences in the water
Once they are on the water, the Weekenders immerse themselves in the crabbing experience. They drop their pots and wait patiently for them to soak, taking in the beauty of the bay and enjoying the peacefulness of the water. They keep a close eye on their pots, eagerly anticipating the moment when they can pull them up and see their catch.
Encounters with ocean wildlife
While crabbing, the Weekenders have the opportunity to encounter various ocean wildlife. They mention spotting seals in the water, adding an element of excitement and wonder to their experience. These encounters with marine life remind them of the beauty and diversity of the ocean and make their crabbing adventure even more memorable.
Fishing and Other Bay Activities
Benefits of the boat for bottom fishing
In addition to crabbing, the Weekenders are also interested in bottom fishing. They mention that their boat is equipped for this type of fishing and express their excitement about the opportunities it presents. By having a boat, they can explore different areas of the bay and try their hand at various fishing techniques.
Discussion of fishing issues and catches
As the Weekenders engage in bottom fishing, they discuss various fishing issues and share their catches. They mention the challenges they face, such as the rough conditions of the ocean and the difficulty of reaching certain areas. Despite these challenges, they are still able to catch fish and enjoy the thrill of the catch.
Exploration of clamming and other fun bay activities
The bay offers a multitude of activities aside from crabbing and fishing. The Weekenders mention the possibility of clamming in Coos Bay, a popular activity in the area. They discuss the different areas where they can find clam beds and express their interest in trying it out. The bay provides a diverse range of activities for everyone to enjoy.
The Catching Process
The mechanics of catching crabs
The Weekenders explain the process of catching crabs with their pots. They discuss the mechanics of attaching the pots to their rope, dropping them into the water, and allowing them to soak. They emphasize the importance of securing the pots properly to ensure that they stay in place while the crabs are being lured in.
Measuring the crab catches
Once the crabs are caught, the Weekenders take the time to measure them. They mention the need for a measuring device to determine the legality of their catch. By abiding by crabbing regulations and catch limits, they can ensure the sustainability of the crab population and protect the ecosystem.
Crabbing regulations and catch limits
Crabbing regulations and catch limits are crucial in maintaining the health of crab populations. The Weekenders are aware of these regulations and follow them diligently. They mention the number of crabs they are allowed to catch and express their commitment to responsible crabbing. By adhering to these guidelines, they contribute to the sustainability of the crab population.
Bait and Catch Success
State of the used bait
The Weekenders discuss the condition of the bait they use to attract crabs to their pots. They mention using chicken as their bait and note that it has been torn up by the crabs. Despite the bait being partially consumed, they consider it a sign of success as it indicates that the crabs are enticed by the scent of the bait.
Discussions on their successful catches
The Weekenders share their excitement about their successful catches. They mention the number of legal crabs they have caught and express their satisfaction with the outcome. The abundance of keepers in their pots fills them with a sense of accomplishment and fuels their enthusiasm for crabbing.
Refreshment of ice to maintain the fresh catch
To ensure that their catch stays fresh, the Weekenders periodically refresh the ice in their cooler. They understand the importance of keeping the crabs chilled, as it enhances the taste and quality of the meat. By taking the necessary steps to preserve their catch, they can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal later.
The Catch and Regulations
Interactions regarding size and legality of catches
During their crabbing adventure, the Weekenders engage in conversations regarding the size and legality of their catches. They mention that they might have caught a male crab, but are unsure if it is legal to keep it. This discussion highlights their commitment to following crabbing regulations and their desire to ensure that they only keep legal catches.
The Weekenders express their disappointment when they are unable to keep certain fish they caught due to regulations. They understand the importance of conserving fish populations and protecting the ecosystem, but also feel a sense of frustration when they are unable to bring home the fish they intended to catch. Despite these setbacks, they remain determined to make the most of their crabbing adventure.
Decision to concentrate on crabbing after illegal catches
After encountering some regulation-related issues with their catches, the Weekenders make the decision to focus their efforts on crabbing. They recognize that crabbing provides them with a more consistent and legal catch, ensuring that they can still enjoy a successful day on the water. This decision allows them to make the most of their crabbing adventure and enjoy the experience to the fullest.
Crab Cooking and Tasting
Preparing and cooking crabs
Once the Weekenders have caught their crabs, they turn their attention to preparing and cooking them. They clean the crabs and prepare them for cooking by removing any unwanted parts. They discuss different cooking methods, such as boiling or steaming, and determine the best approach for their meal.
Use of Zatarain’s crab boil seasoning
To enhance the flavor of their crabs, the Weekenders use Zatarain’s crab boil seasoning. They mention the delicious aroma that fills the air as they cook, thanks to the combination of spices in the seasoning. They consider this seasoning an essential ingredient in creating a flavorful and enjoyable crab feast.
Opinions on flavor and freshness of crabs
After cooking and tasting their crabs, the Weekenders share their opinions on the flavor and freshness of their catch. They are pleased with the taste of the crab meat, describing it as sweet and succulent. The freshness of the crabs contributes to the overall enjoyment of the meal and reinforces their satisfaction with the day’s catch.
Outdoor crab feasting experience
The Weekenders take the opportunity to enjoy their crab feast outdoors. They mention eating the crabs in the dark and emphasize the unique experience of dining in the open air. The combination of good food, good company, and the natural beauty of their surroundings creates a memorable and enjoyable dining experience.
Unfortunate Events and Mishaps
Loss of big fish and crab pot
Not all aspects of the crabbing trip go as planned for the Weekenders. They mention losing a big fish and a crab pot during their adventure. These unfortunate events serve as reminders of the unpredictable nature of the ocean and the potential challenges that can arise when engaging in outdoor activities. Despite these setbacks, the Weekenders maintain a positive attitude and continue to make the most of their experience.
Problems encountered with trolling motor and regulator
The Weekenders also encounter some technical difficulties during their trip. They mention having issues with their trolling motor and regulator, which can affect the functioning of their boat. These problems require troubleshooting and adjustments on the spot, highlighting the importance of being prepared for unexpected challenges and having the knowledge and skills to address them.
Conclusion
General satisfaction of the crabbing adventure
As their crabbing adventure comes to an end, the Weekenders express their general satisfaction with the experience. Despite the challenges and setbacks they encountered along the way, they were able to have a successful day of crabbing and enjoy the beauty of Coos Bay. The memories they created and the delicious food they enjoyed make the trip a memorable and worthwhile experience.
Recap of the experience
The Weekenders recap the highlights of their crabbing adventure, emphasizing the excitement they felt when first setting out and the joy of catching their legal crabs. They mention the encounters they had with marine life and the various activities they engaged in during their time on the water. This recap allows them to reflect on the experience and appreciate the memories they created.
Highlighting memorable moments
Among the many moments that stood out in their crabbing adventure, the Weekenders highlight the encounters with seals in the water, the deliciousness of their cooked crabs, and the beautiful weather they experienced. These memorable moments add depth and joy to their overall experience, providing them with stories to share with others and memories to hold onto.
Potential of repeat or similar activities in the future
The Weekenders conclude their conversation by discussing the potential for repeat or similar activities in the future. They express their desire to return to Coos Bay and continue exploring the bay’s offerings. Their enthusiasm for crabbing and the experiences they had during their trip leave them eager to plan future adventures and create new memories.