The Alaska Department of Fish and Game is accepting bids through April 27 from commercial operators to harvest and purchase golden king crab in the eastern Aleutian Islands to fund crab research and observer programs.

The state aims to generate $500,000 through the harvest in Area O, the waters east of 174 degrees west longitude. The revenue will support the Aleutian Islands crab observer and research programs. Bids are due by 2:00 p.m. Alaska time on April 27.

Qualified bidders must submit proposals by email to [email protected]. The invitation to bid document contains full requirements and specifications.

The cost recovery program requires commercial operators to help fund the state programs that monitor and study crab populations. Golden king crab fisheries in the Aleutians operate under state management to ensure sustainable harvest levels.

Bidders can contact procurement officer an unnamed participant at [email protected] with questions. The full bid document is available through the state's online public notice system.

The department issued the solicitation on April 6. Selected contractors will harvest crab during the 2026 season under terms specified in the winning bid.