The Barney Family  

Strictly a recreational activity, trapping crabs can be lots of fun and very productive. Since a boat is not required to trap crabs, it is becoming a popular method of crabbing. One method is to crab from a public bridge; you'll know when you find one because other crabbers will be there. Crabbing from a public pier or dock, say at a marina, is another great way to utilize a trap. Wading out into shallow water and tying off your traps to sticks or poles is yet another way. And of course, a boat makes an excellent crabbing platform!

The great thing about the various kinds of crab traps is that they work well with little effort and expense. You can purchase crab traps at tackle shops and some hardware stores for 8 to 12 dollars, depending on the size and type. Most traps have one feature in common; when they are in the water on the bottom, they collapse so that the sides are open to allow the crabs to enter and leave.

Crab net rings and the different shaped collapsible traps all operate in this way. When the crabber pulls on the cord, the sides are pulled up and if the crabs are eating the bait, they will be trapped inside.

Ring Net traps are the simplest and least expensive trap available. It consists of two rings each of a different diameter connected by netting. When baited and lowered to the bottom, the trap lies flat on the bottom. The crab will then approach and start to feed on the bait. When the trap is pulled up the top ring is lifted first this trapping the crab in the netting. The benefits of this trap are its simple design, ease of use, ease of storage (it folds completely flat), and its low cost. The drawbacks are that it only works in relatively calm water with flat sandy or muddy bottoms and that it must be lowered very slowly straight down.

Pyramid and Box traps work similarly in that they are made of metal and have sides that swing down or open when resting on the bottom. They are more expensive and complicated than the ring net but can be used in stronger currents and bottoms covered with small rocks and marine growth. They can be "thrown" or "swung" into position. The pyramid trap can be easily stored since it folds completely flat but is very cumbersome to use and fouls frequently. The box trap is bulkier an does not collapse, but works consistently and remarkably well. The box trap is the crab trap of choice among recreational crabbers.

Chicken necks and backs are a good bait for crab traps. Necks and backs are inexpensive and easy to find in the meat department of most grocery stores. You may use fish parts for bait, but the bone in the chicken allows for secure attachment to the trap, and it holds up longer against the ripping and tearing as the crab feeds. Tie the bait to middle of the bottom part of the trap with wire or heavy cord. Lower the trap in the water with enough cord or rope so that it sits on the bottom. Then tie the other end of the cord to the pier.

If you are crabbing from some place on shore, it is best if the tide is rising. Wait five to ten minutes, then check each trap from one end of the line to the other. Check each line carefully by pulling it up with a sharp pull to close the trap and pull the trap quickly to the surface with even tension so that the side panels do not open to release the crab. Pull the trap upward; hand over hand, you will see if the crab is in the trap as you near the surface. Once the trap is up keep the sides closed so your catch does not escape.

After you have trapped your crab, you need the proper container to keep it alive. The best container is a wooden bushel basket obtainable at any fruit or vegetable store. Always protect the crabs from the hot sun, cover them with wet burlap or a wet towel and occasionally dip the container in the water or pour water directly over the crabs to keep them wet and cool. A pail or bucket is not advisable because air cannot flow through this type of container and the crabs will die due to lack of oxygen. If you have no other option, then be sure to replenish or change the water often.

Crabs are transferred to the container by moving it over your basket and letting one side panel open. The crab should drop into the container with a little shaking. Sometimes the crab will hold onto the trap with his claws, be patient he will let go in a few moments. Sometimes crabs get loose so you should learn how to handle live crabs with tongs, gloves, or better yet with your bare hands. Always use caution and care and you will keep yourself from being "bitten".

If you catch a "buster" or "soft-shell" do not place it into the same receptacle with the hard-shell crabs as they will either eat or kill this crab. If you intend to keep these "soft-shell crabs" separate and place them in another container.

If you intend to keep your crabs for longer than a day, then consider constructing a crab box. This is usually a wooden structure made of slats to allow the circulation of water. The crab box is tied to the pier and supported in the water with floats. Feed the crabs leftover bait until you have enough fattened up for a feast!