What is the best place to go crabbing in San Francisco?

Hey bass-hunter, even if you’re chasing lizards in the bass boat, SF Bay isn’t a bad place to scratch a crab itch between sessions. Here are the best, most accessible spots around San Francisco for recreational crabbing, plus a few pro tips that fit nicely between your next bass set.

Top spots around San Francisco

• Pier 39 / Fisherman’s Wharf (SF) – The iconic wharf is your easiest entry point. There’s usually action on Dungeness crabs in the Bay, and you’ll find local gear and tips from other anglers here. Gear up with a simple crab trap or snare, and target sheltered structures near pylons during a favorable outgoing tide. For a read on this vibe and setup, check out Best Dungeness Crab in San Francisco - Crab House at PIER 39.
• Crissy Field / Fort Point area – Near the Golden Gate, this spot draws steady local crabbers who like the rockier structure and current pushed by the tides. A short ride from a bass outing, you can drop traps along the shelves and let the tide do the work. See practical tips in Crabbing in San Francisco with a Crab Snare (Tips & Tricks).
• Berkeley Marina / Richmond side (San Francisco Bay) – A bit of a ride, but these spots offer more room and often calmer water than downtown SF. Great for a quick crabbing session after a morning bass work or on a windy day when the coast is blowing blind.
• Oyster Point / South SF Bay area – Accessible piers and docks make this a solid mid-Bay option. It’s popular with families and folks new to crabbing, yet you’ll still find keepers when the conditions cooperate.

If you want a cinematic overview of gear and techniques, these videos cover traps, snares, and how to set up near structures: How to Catch Crab - Tips and Tricks - Ocean Beach San Francisco and Crabbing San Francisco - Catch & Cook.

Gear & quick picks

• For quick, reliable gear, consider crab traps and snares from these options: AQWXC 6-Loops Crab Trap for Fishing Pole and A1FISHER 2 Packs Pacific Folding Crab Trap.
• Other handy gear: a crab gauge, gloves, a sturdy line, and a bait source (e.g., chicken necks or fish). A quick starter kit like Qualyqualy Crab Trap Set can get you off the dock fast.

Weather note for mid-summer SF (weather snapshot: SF, 57°F, Fog, wind 7.8 mph, humidity 89%)

• Weather-specific tip: Foggy mornings = glassy water early, which can slow the bite. As the sun climbs and winds shift, the water ticks up a bit and crabs start moving with the current. Plan your crabbing during a rising or outgoing tide in the mid-day window when visibility improves and the water warms just enough to fire up the creel.
• Seasonal summary: In mid-summer SF, expect cool temps, light to moderate winds, and variable visibility. The best crabbing often comes in the late morning to early afternoon on an outgoing tide washing along piers and rock piles.

Short technique for quick results: set two traps per person near structure (piles, rocks, or docks), bounce a bit with the current, and check every 20–30 minutes. This gives you more chances in the drift and keeps your boat handy for a quick switch if one spot goes quiet. 💡

Crab responsibly: check the current California crab regulations (size, slot, and keep limits) before you go. Here’s a quick link to the rules: California Dungeness Crab Regulations.,

You’ve got options, buddy—swap a bass outing for a Bay cruise between tides, and you’ll be surprised how fast you can stack a keeper haul. Tight lines and smooth water out there! 🎣🦀