Crab Pots, Permitsđź“‹, and Pre-Season Prep: How We Get Ready for Crabbing in Juneau, Alaska!
Spring is in full swing here in Juneau, Alaska — the days are getting longer, the water is waking up, and the harbor is buzzing with boats getting ready for another unforgettable summer on the water. At Morsa Marine Tours, we’re deep in the behind-the-scenes hustle of getting ready for crabbing season — and trust us, it’s a lot more than just tossing pots overboard and hoping for Dungeness crab.
Whether you're cruising to Juneau or planning your own Southeast Alaska adventure, here’s a peek at what goes into preparing for our authentic Alaskan crabbing tours — and why every detail matters.
Step One: The Unseen Work at ADF&G
Before we can drop a single pot, we head over to the Alaska Department of Fish & Game (ADF&G) to register for the season. It’s not glamorous, but it’s essential — every crab pot we use must be individually tagged and accounted for. These pot tags make sure we’re fishing legally and sustainably, following all the regulations that help protect Alaska’s rich marine ecosystem.
It’s a crucial part of running a responsible commercial crabbing operation — and we take pride in doing things the right way.
Next: Pot Inspections and Repairs
Once the paperwork is done, it’s time to go pot by pot. Literally. We inspect every single Dungeness crab pot from top to bottom:
Is the mesh secure?
Are the frames solid and rust-free?
Do the doors open and close properly?
Does any rotten cotton need to be replaced?
If there’s a problem, we patch it. If it’s questionable, we fix it. Every small repair ensures that the pots are ready for the real thing. Our gear needs to perform every single day — not just for looks, but for pulling in real crab.
All the Details That Make It Work
The final weeks before the season starts are filled with little tasks that make a big difference:
Cleaning and painting buoys for maximum visibility
Splicing and organizing ropes
Prepping bait jars
Conducting boat and gear safety checks
Restocking supplies like gloves, rain gear, and life vests
These are the things that guests don’t often see — but they’re what make our tours run smoothly. When you’re out there pulling a crab pot from the cold, clear waters of Juneau, it’s all this behind-the-scenes work that makes it possible.
An Authentic Alaska Crabbing Experience
At Morsa Marine Tours, we offer more than just sightseeing. Our hands-on Dungeness crabbing excursions give you a real taste of life on the water in Southeast Alaska. You’ll help haul up crab pots, check the catch, and learn what goes into this traditional Alaskan livelihood.
Sometimes the crabs play hard to get, but one thing’s for sure — you’ll have a blast and come away with a genuine Alaska crabbing adventure you won’t forget!
Ready to Go Crabbing in Juneau?
If you're looking for something truly unique to do in Juneau, Alaska — whether you're here on a cruise ship or exploring on your own — come join us on the water.
The crab pots are ready. The gear is dialed in. And our team can’t wait to show you what real Alaska crabbing is all about.
Book your tour today and be part of the action!
