Where Can I Buy Crab Traps? Your Complete Guide

Crab trapping is a fun hobby and great way to get delicious crab meat But first, you need to get the right crab trap! Buying a crab trap may seem straightforward, but there are actually a lot of factors to consider. In this complete guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to find the best crab trap for your needs

Crab Trap Basics

A crab trap, also called a crab pot, is a wire cage used to catch crabs, typically blue crabs and Dungeness crabs. The basic design is simple – it’s a box-shaped trap made of wire mesh, with funnels at the entrances that allow the crabs to walk in easily. Inside there is bait to lure the crabs into the trap. Once inside, the funnel neck makes it difficult for them to walk back out. Traps have one or more compartments and may have floatation on the top to keep the trap off the sea floor.

Crab traps allow crabbers to set their gear and wait for crabs to come to them. This passive style of crabbing is less labor intensive than actively catching them with nets or lines. It also results in fresher, livelier crabs that are less likely to be damaged compared to other techniques.

When you go to buy a crab trap, there are a few key features to evaluate:

• Material – Most crab traps are made from vinyl-coated steel wire, which is strong, rigid, and corrosion resistant Some may be made from galvanized wire or plastic coated wire. Vinyl coating improves durability

• Mesh size – The openings in the wire mesh must be big enough for crabs to enter but small enough to trap them inside. Standard mesh sizes are 1, 1 1/4, and 1 1/2 inches.

• Dimensions – Common dimensions range from around 16 x 16 x 8 inches up to 24 x 24 x 16 inches or larger. The number of internal compartments also varies Larger traps catch more crabs.

• Entrance tunnels – Look for funnels at the entrance that make it easy for crabs to walk in and harder for them to exit. Multiple entrances improve trap efficiency.

• Escape vents – Regulated crab traps must have vents to allow undersized juveniles to exit. Make sure any traps you buy comply with local regulations.

• Bait holders – Bait bags and holders keep bait secure and centered in the trap. This attracts more crabs.

• Floats – Floats lift the trap off the sea floor, which also improves efficiency. You just have to tie them onto the traps.

• Door – Door style isn’t critical but something easy to open and close is preferable to access your catch.

Where to Buy Crab Traps

Now that you know what to look for in a crab trap, where are the best places to buy them? Here are some top options for purchasing crab traps and pots for recreational crabbing:

Online Retailers

Buying crab traps online gives you access to the widest selection and lets you easily comparison shop. Some top online retailers include:

• Lee Fisher Fishing – This is one of the largest online suppliers of crab and fish traps aimed at commercial fishermen. They have an extensive selection of different styles and sizes of crab traps made from vinyl-coated wire. Traps from simple minnow traps to large hardcore crab traps. Prices ranging from $42 to $165.

• Crab Trap USA – As the name suggests, they specialize in crab traps for recreational crabbing. Traps available include collapsible traps, floating traps, and standard rigid traps in multiple sizes. Prices range from $59 to $159.

• Amazon – You can find a surprisingly wide assortment of crab traps and pots on Amazon. Offerings range from cheap folding traps for under $30 up to larger rigid traps over $100. Look carefully at reviews and details.

• eBay – Similar to Amazon, eBay sellers offer lots of crab trap options. Just pay attention to details as quality can vary more on eBay.

One advantage of buying online is retailers will ship traps directly to your door. Just watch for high shipping costs on bulky traps. Also check if any floatation devices come separate.

Local Bait & Tackle Shops

Stop by local bait and tackle shops in your crabbing area. The staff are likely to be knowledgeable about regional crabbing. They can advise you on the best trap types and sizes for the species you’ll be targeting. You can see products in person before you buy. And you’ll support local businesses. Just be aware of limited inventory so call ahead.

Commercial Fishing Supply Stores

In coastal regions, you’ll often find supplies catering to commercial fishermen. These stores may have a great selection of heavy-duty crab traps at reasonable prices. And staff with inside expertise on commercial crabbing best practices. The traps and supplies are durable for repeated use. Just watch out for very large sizes meant for offshore crabbing boats rather than pier or shore crabbing.

Traps vs Collapsible Pots

One decision is whether to get a rigid welded wire trap or a collapsible crab pot. Rigid traps are heavier and bulkier but more durable for repeated use. Collapsible pots fold down when not in use for easier transport and storage. However, they aren’t as sturdy for big catches. Another option is floating ring traps that use floating rings instead of rigid wire mesh. These pack down like collapsible pots. In the end, consider if you want durability or compact storage.

Used and Rental Crab Traps

If you just want to try crabbing without a big upfront investment, buying a used trap or renting one are options. Check local classified ads, crabbing forums, or community boards for used gear. Some sporting goods shops or marinas also rent out crab traps and all the rigging you need. Just be sure to clean and sanitize used gear well. Also inspect for damage like rust, torn netting, or missing parts.

Crab Trap Regulations

One final note – be sure to check your local crabbing regulations for requirements on crab trap features like escape vents. And learn the rules on placement and labeling before deploying your new gear. Following the rules helps ensure sustainable crabbing for the future.

Equipping Your Crab Trap

The crab trap or pot itself is just the start. You’ll also need:

• Bait – Fresh fish parts work best. Popular baits include chicken, eel, shrimp, clam, mackerel, mullet, menhaden, and squid.

• Weighted rope or chain – This secures your trap on the sea floor. Don’t use a floating line.

• Buoy and line – Attaches to the trap for retrieval, with a buoy float on the surface. Mark according to regulations.

• Bait bags – Mesh bags keep bait contained instead of loose in the trap.

• Escape proof clips – These are added if your trap doesn’t have integrated bait containers.

• Gloves – Crab pots and lines can be hard on your hands, so bring protection.

Finding all the right accessories ensures your new crab trap will function at peak efficiency for plentiful fresh crab.

Get Trapping!

Hopefully this guide has covered everything you need to know to find the perfect crab trap for your needs. Focus on selecting a reputable brand, key features like entrance funnels, and an appropriate size. Consider ordering online for the widest selection or checking your local tackle shop. And don’t forget all the bait, rope, floats, and other accessories to go with your trap.

Soon you’ll be all set to head out and start trapping delicious Dungeness, blue crabs, or whatever your local favorites are. Just make sure to be safe on the water, follow all regulations, and respect other users and the marine environment. Responsible crabbing helps preserve the sport for the future.

For more on getting started crabbing, check out these articles:

• [Crab Trapping 101 – The Complete Guide]
• [Choosing the Right Crab Bait]
• [Crab Trapping Tips, Tricks, and Techniques]