The Best Places to Buy Crab Pots for Your Next Catch

Crab fishing is a popular hobby and pastime for many anglers. Nothing beats the satisfaction of pulling up a trap full of feisty crabs ready for eating. But first, you need the right crab pot to catch them. I’ve rounded up the best places to buy crab pots and traps for your next crabbing adventure.

Overview of Crab Pot Styles

Crab pots come in a variety of shapes sizes and designs. The most common types are

• Round pots – A wire circle cage design that’s collapsible for easy storage and transport Round pots are versatile and work well for most crab species

• Square/rectangular pots – Square wire traps that fold down flat. Rectangular designs offer more interior space. Good for larger crabs like Dungeness.

• Pyramid or heart pots – Specialized cone-shaped traps used to target spider crabs. The tapered shape makes it hard for crabs to escape.

• Ring/hoop nets – Basic net bags attached to a metal ring. More portable than rigid pots but less durable. Best for pier or shore crabbing.

Consider the species you’ll be targeting and your crabbing location to choose the best crab pot style.

Top Places to Buy Crab Pots Online

Shopping online makes it easy to find crab pots and have them shipped right to your door. Here are some of the top online retailers to buy crab traps and accessories:

1. Fisheries Supply

Fisheries Supply is my top pick for crab pots thanks to their huge selection. They carry all the major brands and pot styles. Prices range from budget to premium. I like their collapsible round and rectangular wire pots which make storage and transport a breeze. They also have packages with complete rigging kits so your pot comes ready to drop.

Crab Pot Selection: Round, rectangular, pyramid, and specialty pots from makers like Promar, Frabill, and SMI. Over 75 options.

Price Range: $25 – $150

Accessories: Crab trap kits, rope, buoys, bait bags, gauges, storage options. Can purchase a la carte or as bundles.

Special Services: Custom fabrication for cages and commercial fishing gear.

2. Amazon

With its massive online selection, Amazon is another great option for getting crab pots delivered to your home. They carry the popular brands and offer both entry-level and heavy-duty traps. Shop by pot shape and size. Look for free shipping options. The user reviews help take the guesswork out of which pots work best.

Crab Pot Selection: Very wide selection of round, square, and other designs. Brands like Promar, Frabill, and Happy Crabbing.

Price Range: $25 – $200

Accessories: Rope, floats, and bait bags available but less variety than specialty retailers.

Special Services: Free standard shipping on most items for Prime members. Can filter by Prime eligibility.

3. Crab Pots Plus

For a dedicated crab pot supplier, Crab Pots Plus can’t be beat. They are crabbing specialists with an emphasis on high-quality traps made in the USA. I like their rugged heavy-duty commercial pots. While prices are on the higher side, the pots are built to last season after season. They also have entry-level options.

Crab Pot Selection: American made round and square wire pots. Heavy-duty or recreational grades.

Price Range: $70 – $250

Accessories: Complete crabbing kits with rope, buoys, and bait containers available. More limited accessory selection.

Special Services: Custom wire pot fabrication. Quantity discounts.

Buying Crab Pots Locally

Besides online retailers, there are some good options for picking up crab pots locally:

• Sporting goods stores – Major chains like Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shops, and Sportsman’s Warehouse carry crab pots during crabbing season. Selection is limited but you can inspect pots.

• Marine supply stores – Salty’s, West Marine, and local marine outfitters offer crab pots and accessories. Helpful staff can advise you on the best gear.

• Boat shops – Retailers near crabbing hotspots often sell pots, particularly in the Pacific Northwest and East Coast. Support small local businesses.

• Commercial fishing supply – For heavy-duty commercial style traps, commercial retailers are the way to go.

• Hardware stores – Big box and farm & ranch stores sell recreational crab pots during peak crabbing season.

Shop around to find the best prices locally and compare to online options.

Key Features to Look for When Buying Crab Pots

Keep these things in mind when picking out crab traps:

• Construction – Look for vinyl-coated steel wire which won’t rust or corrode. Traps should have reinforced entry holes and a sturdy frame. Avoid cheap plastic pots which break.

• Mesh size – Smaller mesh helps keep small crabs and bait inside. 1/2 to 1 inch mesh is ideal for many crab species.

• Entry type – Funnel, ramp, or throat entryways make it easy for crabs to enter but not escape. Commercial pots often have double entryways.

• Collapsible – Folding pots with interlocking corners take up minimal storage space. Quick to set up and haul.

• Escape panels – These allow undersized crabs to exit while keeping legal catches inside. Helpful for recreational crabbing and conservation.

• Size – Bigger isn’t necessarily better. Match pot size to the crabs you’re targeting so it’s easy to manage when hauling gear.

Prioritize durability so your pots will last many seasons of crabbing fun!

Must-Have Accessories for Rigging Crab Pots

Crab pots are just one piece of the puzzle. You’ll need accessories like rope, floats, and bait containers to make your traps operational. Here are some must-have add-ons:

• Floats – Strong plastic or foam buoys are essential to mark and retrieve your pots. Crab pot floats with flags make pots more visible.

• Line – Use sinking rope designed for crabbing and commercial fishing. Thickness depends on depth. Add swivels or clips for easy rigging.

• Bait box – Mesh bags or plastic jars keep bait contained while allowing crab scent to escape.

• Measuring gauge – Required gear in most areas to confirm captured crabs meet legal size requirements.

• Escape rings – Cheap plastic rings allow undersized crabs to walk free while retaining legal keepers.

• Gloves – Protect your hands from snapping claws and rope burn when hauling up loaded pots.

Many crab pot packages and kits include all the rigging you need for under a hundred bucks.

Setting a Budget for Your Crab Fishing Gear

Crab fishing can be an affordable hobby. Basic gear for recreational crabbing costs:

• Crab pot: $30 – $70
• Line, floats, bait cage: $25
• Gloves, gauge: $15

Total: $70 – $110 per pot

For dedicated crabbers, invest in heavier commercial-grade pots that will last for years. High-end pots cost $150 – $250 but pay for themselves after a few seasons.

Buying multiple pots increases your odds of a big catch. Start with 2-3 pots and add more once you learn the ropes.

Finding crabs to fill your traps will be a fun adventure. With the right gear, you’ll be hosting crab feasts in no time!