Crab fishing can provide you with delicious crab meat for dinner, and can also be a lot of fun. Catching crabs is quite easy and inexpensive. With just a string, some bait and a net, you can bring in tasty crabs, one after another. Crabs are creatures of habit and will come quickly to properly presented bait. A few simple tips and some careful handling are all you need to be successful at catching crabs.
Bait
Bait selection is very important. Crabs are scavengers and will eat just about anything that is made of protein. This can include a range of meat products. It's best to choose tough items that the crabs will hang on to in order to feed. Good examples of bait include dead fish, fish heads or chicken necks. Check with your local fish monger or butcher for scrap fish or chicken parts that may even be available for free.
Location
Crabs can be caught easily in shallow areas along brackish rivers, estuaries and other areas of calm water. Try fishing for crabs from a dock or pier. Look for areas where the water is relatively clear. This will allow you to watch your bait and see when a crab is ready to be caught.
Line Fishing
The simplest technique for catching crabs is to use a number eight line, bait and a fishing net. Tie a piece of fish or chicken to the line, and toss it into the water. When a crab begins to feed on it, slowly and carefully pull the line up to the surface. When the crab is within reach, scoop it up with a net.
Traps
Traps are also a very popular method of catching crabs. There are two basic types: the ring net and the wire folding trap. The ring net consists of two wire rings and cotton or nylon netting that forms the basket. Bait is tied to the center of the basket. When the ring net drops to the bottom, it lays flat. When a crab begins to feed on the bait, the ring net is pulled up and the sides come up around the crab, trapping it. The wire folding trap works in a similar manner, although when this trap is pulled up, the walls of the cage fold up, trapping the crab. Both of these traps are inexpensive and easy to use.
Handling Crabs
Crabs do not bite. They do, however, pinch--and hard. The easiest way to handle crabs is with a pair of tongs or thick gloves. Sometimes, crabs can be handled by holding them at the back of their shell. This makes it impossible for the crab to reach you with its pincers. Place the crabs in an empty 5-gallon bucket and cover them with a wet towel. Never fill the bucket with water, as the crabs will use all the oxygen in the water and eventually suffocate. As you add each new crab, remove the towel, place the crab in the bucket quickly, then immediately cover them with the towel. This will keep them fresh and prevent them from fighting with each other.
Crabbing Laws
Be sure to understand and carefully follow the laws of your state concerning recreational crabbing. Some states have limits on both the season and the number of crabs that can be taken. For example, in Florida, you can keep up to 10 gallons of crabs per day, but female crabs bearing eggs need to be released.
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