If you’ve ever wanted to spend a day outdoors in Metro Vancouver with a bit of adventure, fresh air, and a tasty reward at the end, crabbing is one of the best experiences you can have. The region is blessed with an abundance of Dungeness and Red Rock crab, and you don’t need to be a commercial fisher to enjoy the thrill of pulling up a trap loaded with dinner. Whether you’re setting out in a small boat or casting a trap from a pier, Metro Vancouver offers some fantastic crab and prawn trap spots that blend nature, ocean, and excitement.
Why Go Crabbing Around Vancouver?
Crabbing is more than just fishing—it’s about the salty ocean breeze, the quiet wait, and the rush of anticipation when you feel the tug of a full trap. It’s also one of the most affordable seafood adventures in British Columbia. A tidal fishing licence, some basic gear, and a few hours of patience are all you need. The reward? A bucket of fresh, sweet crab that tastes far better than anything from the grocery store. If you’re new to the hobby, check out this handy guide on how to catch crabs before you head out.
Now let’s get into the best places in Metro Vancouver to drop a trap.
1. Jericho Pier
Located in Vancouver’s West Side, Jericho Pier is a favourite among locals. It’s easy to access, family-friendly, and offers a backdrop of downtown Vancouver and the North Shore mountains. The pier stretches out far enough into Burrard Inlet to give crabbers a fair shot at Red Rock crabs. Weekends can get busy, so it pays to arrive early, but the atmosphere is lively and fun. To improve your odds, try using FirstMate Prawn & Crab Bait Pellets for a strong scent that attracts crabs faster.
2. Belcarra Pier
This is hands-down one of the best crabbing spots in Metro Vancouver. Tucked inside Indian Arm, Belcarra Pier offers calm waters and a reliable catch of both Red Rock and Dungeness crab. The pier is long and sturdy, perfect for setting traps without worrying about boat traffic. It’s also surrounded by parkland, so you can make a full day of it with a picnic and a hike after you’re done pulling up traps. Many crabbers here use the Kufa Stainless Steel Wire Crab Trap 30 because of its durability and ease of handling.
3. Cates Park (Whey-ah-Wichen)
Over in North Vancouver, Cates Park is another hot spot for crabbing. The pier extends into the sheltered waters of Burrard Inlet, and there’s always a buzz of activity—fishermen, kayakers, and families enjoying the waterfront. It’s a great place to try your luck, and the park has amenities that make it easy for families with kids. A great option for this location is the Sea King Jumbo Folding Crab Trap, which folds down for easy transport.
4. Ambleside Pier, West Vancouver
Ambleside Pier offers incredible views of Lions Gate Bridge and Stanley Park, and the crabbing here is excellent too. It’s especially popular for Red Rock crab. The pier is wide, with plenty of space to spread out, and it’s close to the seawall for those who want to combine fishing with a scenic walk. Serious crabbers often go with the Kufa Crab Trap Large 30″ Diameter Round Coated Steel for its strength and reliability.
5. Rocky Point Pier, Port Moody
Rocky Point is more than just an ice cream and boardwalk stop—it’s also one of the best places in the Tri-Cities for crabbing. The pier stretches into Burrard Inlet’s sheltered waters, and while it’s often busy with locals, it’s an accessible and rewarding spot. If you’re lucky, you can finish the day with fresh crab followed by fish and chips at the nearby park concession.
6. White Rock Pier
One of the longest piers in Canada, White Rock Pier stretches nearly half a kilometre into Semiahmoo Bay, giving crabbers access to deeper waters without a boat. It’s a beautiful spot with a lively boardwalk, and while you’ll mostly find Red Rock crab here, the setting makes the trip worthwhile. If you’re planning to fish here, portable gear like the Kufa Folding Crab Trap – Galvanized Steel is an excellent choice.
7. Barnet Marine Park, Burnaby
Tucked along the north shore of Burnaby, Barnet Marine Park offers a smaller pier and shoreline access where locals often set traps. It’s quieter than some of the more famous piers, with great views of the inlet and a chance at both Red Rock and the occasional Dungeness. A simple but effective option for this spot is the Danielson Deluxe Folding Crab Trap 24″ Square.
8. Dundarave Pier, West Vancouver
A little west of Ambleside, Dundarave Pier is less busy but still a solid crabbing spot. The pier juts into Burrard Inlet with clear, rocky-bottom waters that attract Red Rock crabs. The nearby beach and seaside village vibe make it a nice place for a full day out. For versatility and storage ease, many locals prefer the FlexFold Collapsible Crab & Prawn Traps.
9. Steveston, Richmond
While many think of Steveston for its bustling fish market and historic cannery, it’s also a good launch point for crabbing. Locals use the shoreline and docks in the area, and if you have access to a small boat, you can drop traps just offshore in the Fraser River’s tidal waters, and use a strong rope like the Leaded Crab or Prawn Line 5/16″ to secure your traps in tidal waters.
10. Deep Cove, North Vancouver
Known for its kayaking and stunning views, Deep Cove also offers opportunities for crabbing from shore and small boats. The sheltered waters of Indian Arm are teeming with Red Rock crab, and if you venture out further, you might find Dungeness as well.
Tips for Crabbing in Metro Vancouver
- Get your licence: A British Columbia tidal fishing licence is required, and make sure to carry it with you.
- Know the rules: Size limits, daily quotas, and gear restrictions are strictly enforced. Always measure your crab before keeping it.
- Bring the right gear: A folding trap with bait (fish heads, chicken, or FirstMate Prawn & Crab Bait Pellets works great), a sturdy rope, and a bucket are essential.
- Check the tides: Crabbing is often best during a change of tide when the water movement brings crabs closer to shore.
- Be patient: Sometimes the traps come up full, sometimes they’re empty. That’s the adventure.
The Adventure of Fresh Catch
There’s something unforgettable about cooking crab you pulled from the ocean just hours earlier. Boil them in seawater, crack open the shells, and dip the meat in butter—it’s one of those simple, perfect West Coast experiences.
So whether you’re on the hunt for a weekend activity, looking to introduce the kids to fishing, or just want to taste the freshest crab around, Metro Vancouver’s piers and waters are calling. Pack a trap, grab some bait, and get ready for the thrill of the catch.