December 19, 2023 — For decades, fishers have earned a living selling Dungeness crab out of San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf. But many, like Shawn Chen Flading, have struggled over the last five years as the state has consecutively delayed the commercial season.
“Every delay is difficult. Right now, I have zero income as a fisherman,” Flading said. He told KQED that he’s been working side jobs to financially stay afloat.
The season, which has historically started on Nov. 15, is delayed until at least New Year’s Day to protect migrating humpback whales. Crabbers like Flading hope to catch the tail end of the holidays to recoup what they’ve lost.
This is also primetime for crab sales as many San Franciscans prepare festive meals that feature the crustacean as opposed to turkey or ham.
“It’s something people like to splurge on to create a feast,” Flading said. “But with the delay, we’ve lost all the holiday markets.