2004-09-14: Baiting the Trap
We decided that since we were here, we should learn the art of crabbing. Jim was a fine teacher. Prior to going out on the boat, one must prepare the trap. We bought turkey legs that were wired to the inside of the trap.
2004-09-14: Captain Jim
After loading the three traps and students on board, Captain Jim headed out into the bay.
2004-09-14: Big Jelly
We lowered the baited trap into the water and then cruised the bay for around 20 minutes hoping the crabs were hungry enough to go for the turkey leg. This huge jelly was gaily floating around.
2004-09-14: The Catch
Pulling the first trap up we found there were indeed some hungry critters. All females as well as smaller crabs must be thrown back. We were pretty lucky - we got 10 legal crabs in three pulls. We probably would have stayed out longer but Tryna got a bit woosy.
2004-09-14: Ready to Eat
Returning to camp, Suzy had the crab cooker ready to cook our catch. Don't they just look yummy!
2004-09-14: Picking and Eating
The first four crabs out of the cooker were picked and consumed. Sitting out at the picnic benches, using newspaper for placemats it was a big crab picking party.
2004-09-14: Clowning
Here's Jim clowning around with one of the catch.
2004-09-15: Shore Acres
Louis Simpson, an early timber baron, built his estate here in the early 1900's. Today, the Oregon State Park system maintains the botanical gardens for the enjoyment of all. Two beautiful bronze herons grace the pond.
2004-09-15: Beautiful Flowers
The rain we've had on and off during the day made the fuschia most picturesque.
2004-09-15: Cape Arago Lighthouse
Cape Arago Lighthouse stands as a sentinel on this rugged part of the Oregon coast.
2004-09-15: Simpson Reef
Simpson Reef and Shell Island are home to many marine animals. If sound were included here, you would be deafened by the chatter of the seals, sea lions and elephants. What an incredible place!