Migration Octopus make inshore-offshore migrations in keeping with seasonal temperature changes and food availability. A general migration offshore into deeper water may occur in the fall with a return migration to shallower water the following spring. Population Little is known about the abundance, distribution, and population trends of octopus off the Oregon coast. Incidental catches in commercial fisheries provide some information. The majority of octopus is taken as an incidental catch in the Dungeness crab pot fishery as well as groundfish trawl fishery.
Limited markets exist for octopus at present.
It is sought in Alaska as bait for halibut fisheries. Japan is an exporter of food grade octopus. Species smaller than giant octopus appear to be sought preferentially for human food in foreign and domestic markets. Pots or traps appear to be the best method for a directed fishery on octopus. Management Present Regulations Octopus harvest is regulated under general provisions for foodfish.