You can’t beat fresh crab and, in our opinion, it tastes even better when you catch it yourself. Going crabbing doesn’t require a lot of gear so if you’re lucky enough to live near a coast where you can find blue crab, you could grab some crabbing gear today and start scooping them up tonight if the season is right.
Where Can You Catch Blue Crab
Blue crab live along the Atlantic Coast of the Americas from Nova Scotia to Argentina including the Gulf of Mexico. They’re typically found in oyster reefs and in underwater grass beds in shallow brackish water or deeper, saltier waters. In warm weather, they prefer shallow water areas but will move to deeper parts of the bay and burrow into the sediment in winter.
When Can You Catch Blue Crab
Timing
Blue crab are nocturnal so you’ll have the best chance after dark.
Seasons
Late summer to early fall is a great time to find blue crab.
What Kind of Gear Do You Need To Catch Blue Crab?
There are a few popular ways to catch blue crabs and the method you choose will determine what gear you need.
Wadding and Hand Netting
This is the easiest method and requires the least amount of gear. You’ll need a long handle net, a bucket, some water shoes or waders and a flashlight. Walk the shoreline until you spot a crab, slowly dip your net into the water behind the crab or on the opposite side of the crab from you and scoop it up.
Hand Line
For this method you’ll need some heavy fishing line or cord, a bucket, some bait and a long handle net. Tie the bait to your line and toss it out into the water. You’ll know you have a crab on the other end when the line goes tight. Slowly pull the line in until the crab is in reach of your net.
Traps
A lot of people prefer crab traps because they can set them and wait for the crabs to come to them. Attach bait inside the trap, put it under the water and check it every 15-20 minutes. Remove any crabs in the trap when you pull it up, check the bait, replace it if needed, drop it back in the water and repeat.
Keeping and Cooking Your Catch
Transfer crabs directly from your net to a bucket or cooler. The farther you can keep your fingers away from their claws, the better. If you have to pick up a crab, only grab the back part of the top and bottom of its shell. Make sure your fingers aren’t too far forward because crabs can reach pretty far underneath their body with their front claws.
Crab is best when it’s fresh so boil them up and share them with a few buddies as soon as possible. Many people boil them the same night they catch them as a reward for a good night of crabbing.
Need More Help?
West Marine is the perfect place to get ready for your next catch. We stock locally assorted tackle and fishing gear in most of our stores for species in your area and with plenty of anglers on our crew, we have the know-how you need to get ready. Find your store here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to catch blue crabs?
The best time to catch blue crabs is during their active seasons, typically in the warmer months from late spring to early fall. Blue crabs are most active during the day, especially during high tide, when they move around more. Early morning and late afternoon, around dawn and dusk, are also great times to catch them, as they tend to be more active.
What type of bait should I use to catch blue crabs?
Blue crabs are opportunistic feeders and are attracted to a variety of baits. The most popular baits include:
Chicken necks:
A favorite among crabbers, they are inexpensive and work well.Fish carcasses:
Blue crabs are scavengers, and fish parts such as heads, guts, and frames are very effective.Baitfish:
Small fish like menhaden or mullet can also work well for attracting crabs.What equipment do I need to catch blue crabs?
To catch blue crabs, you'll need a few basic pieces of equipment:
Crab traps or pots:
These are placed on the bottom and left for a period of time to catch crabs.Hand lines:
A simple rope with bait tied to the end, used for pulling in crabs.Dip nets:
Used to scoop up crabs that have been attracted to your trap or bait.Crab gauge:
To ensure that the crabs you catch are of legal size.How do I identify if a blue crab is the right size to keep?
The legal size for blue crabs varies by region, but typically, a male blue crab must have a carapace (the hard shell) width of at least 5 inches. Female crabs may have different regulations depending on local rules. Use a crab gauge to measure the width of the crab’s shell between the tips of its spines (the points on the sides of the shell). Be sure to check local regulations to ensure you are keeping crabs within legal size limits.
What are the best places to catch blue crabs?
Blue crabs can be found in brackish waters, especially in estuaries, marshes, and shallow coastal areas. They tend to congregate around structures such as piers, docks, and submerged debris, where they can find food and shelter. Look for them near the mouths of rivers and in bays, where freshwater and saltwater mix. Tidal flats and areas with mud or sandy bottoms are also prime spots for crabbing.
