Starting Oct. 1, winter crabbing will begin.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife announced this past week that the summer catch assessment allowed for more crab to be caught in all three marine areas around Whidbey Island.

That means that starting at 8 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 1, areas 8-1, 8-2 and 9 are open for more crab fishing. The season is open seven days a week through Dec. 31.

The daily catch limit in Puget Sound is five male Dungeness crab, in hard-shell condition with a minimum carapace width of 6.25 inches. Anglers can keep six red rock crab of either sex of at least 5 inches across per day.

All Dungeness crab caught must be recorded on winter catch cards, which are free to anyone who purchased a crab endorsement. Winter catch cards are valid through Dec. 31 and due to be reported to the fish and wildlife department by Feb. 1.

Anglers are still required to turn in their summer catch cards, which are due Oct. 1.

Other marine areas, as designated by the state, open to the winter crab season include 4, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12 and 13.