When you think of lobster, places like Maine, Nova Scotia, and Cape Cod likely come to mind first. But did you know that you can actually catch lobsters right here in Oregon? While not as abundant or large as their East Coast relatives, there are small lobsters dwelling along the Oregon coast if you know where to look
As an Oregon fishing enthusiast I decided to do some digging into the prospects for lobstering in local waters. Here’s what I discovered about landing these elusive crustaceans off Oregon’s shores.
Oregon’s Native Lobster Species
Oregon is home to two native lobster species
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California spiny lobster – Found from Monterey, California up to Point Conception. They lack large front claws.
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Spotted spiny lobster – Ranges from Point Conception north to British Columbia. Has white spots on a reddish body.
Neither species grows larger than 2 pounds in Oregon waters. And unfortunately, regulations prohibit harvesting both species recreationally. But some lucky divers do encounter them on deep offshore reefs.
Rogue Caribbean Lobsters
While small native lobsters are off limits, another non-native lobster is fair game in Oregon. Caribbean spiny lobsters likely first arrived in the 1980s as escaped live seafood imports.
This warm water species took hold and spread locally near the Columbia River mouth where underwater canyons create a unique pocket of tropical conditions. Anglers and divers soon discovered these exotic interlopers dwelling on rocky reefs 100+ feet down.
While only reaching 2-3 pounds typically, hooking one of these bright red alien lobsters still makes for a unique and tasty prize. They can be retained under general shellfish limits.
Best Areas to Catch Lobsters
Prime spots to hook Caribbean spiny lobsters include:
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Deep water reefs near the mouth of the Columbia River
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Underwater canyons and rocky outcroppings off Cannon Beach and Nehalem
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Submerged reefs surrounding Tillamook Bay
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Deep water dropoffs by Depoe Bay leading to stone reefs
Your best bet is finding areas holding rocky structure, especially with vertical faces, in 100-300 feet of water. This mimics their native habitat.
Techniques for Catching Lobsters
The two main methods for targeting lobsters in Oregon are trapping and diving.
Trapping:
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Use rigid mesh traps weighted to sink to bottom
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Bait traps with fresh fish scraps to attract lobsters
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Soak traps overnight in promising areas
Diving:
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Use SCUBA or surface supplied air to reach lobster depths
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Search cracks and holes in rocky reefs
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Catch lobsters by hand or with a long pole net
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Use underwater lights at night to spot them easier
Trapping allows covering more territory while diving offers a more active and selective pursuit. Both can be rewarding when lobsters are present.
Regulations and Seasons
Before lobstering in Oregon, be sure to consult current regulations. Key rules include:
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License required for shellfish harvest
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No minimum size on Caribbean spiny lobsters
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Daily limit of 12 lobsters per person
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Closed October 16 – November 30 for native spiny lobster species
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Gear limits on number of traps
Following the regulations ensures sustainably harvesting this non-native delicacy.
Preparing and Cooking Your Catch
Lobsters must be cooked prior to eating. Consider steaming, boiling, grilling, or adding to pasta or tacos. Remove the meat from the shell and Enjoy!
So while lobsters will never rival Dungeness crab or salmon in abundance here, you can experience these tasty crustaceans right off the Oregon coast. With knowledge of their habitat, proper gear, and adherence to regulations, grabbing a few lobsters can add a tasty highlight to local seafood adventures. Just be prepared for deep water action and light tackle to snag these invaders from the deep.