Red Crabbing Essentials: Top 5 Tools You Need for a Perfect Catch

by Oleg Nikitenko September 04, 2024

Red Crabbing Tools

Crabbing is an exciting outdoor activity that promises a rewarding experience and a delicious seafood feast. To ensure success on your red crabbing trip, you'll need the right tools at hand. Whether you're new to crabbing or a seasoned pro, having the correct gear will increase your chances of catching more crabs and enjoying your day on the water.

In this guide, we’ll go over the top 5 red crabbing tools you need for a productive, safe, and enjoyable crabbing adventure. Let’s dive in!

1. Crab Pot: Your Primary Tool for Catching Crabs

A crab pot is a must-have for any crabbing expedition. This cylindrical trap is designed to lure crabs with bait and capture them as they try to retrieve the food. Crab pots come in various sizes and styles, so it’s important to choose one that complies with local regulations, including the required entrance size and material type. Using a crab pot not only simplifies the process of catching crabs but also ensures that smaller crabs can escape, preserving the population for future harvests.

Best Brands for Crab Pots:

Promar: Known for durable and highly effective crab pots.
KUFA Sports: Offers various crab pots designed for different types of crabbing.

Where to Buy: High-quality crab pots can be purchased at Bass Pro Shops , Amazon , and Tackle Direct . Depending on the size and brand, crab pots usually range from $25 to $70.

2. Crabbing Tongs: Safely Handle Your Catch

Handling crabs can be tricky, especially when dealing with their sharp claws. Crabbing tongs are the perfect solution for picking up crabs from your pot without risking injury. These long-handled tools allow you to grab crabs from a safe distance and transfer them to your bucket or cooler.

Top Crabbing Tongs Brands:

South Bend: Offers durable, rust-resistant tongs ideal for handling large crabs.
Danielson: Known for their well-designed tongs that make crab handling easier and safer.

Where to Buy: Find crabbing tongs at Walmart , Cabela’s , or Amazon , with prices ranging from $15 to $30.

3. Bait and Bait Bags: Attract More Crabs

The right bait can make all the difference in your crabbing success. Chicken necks, fish heads, and razor clams are among the most effective baits for attracting crabs. To ensure your bait stays secure in the crab pot while releasing its scent, use bait bags. These bags allow you to place the bait inside without worrying about crabs easily tearing it apart.

Recommended Bait Bags:

Promar Bait Bags: Designed to hold your bait securely, these are a top choice for crabbers.
KUFA Bait Bags: Durable and affordable, perfect for beginners and seasoned crabbers alike.

Where to Buy: Pick up bait and bait bags at Dick's Sporting Goods , Amazon , or Bass Pro Shops . Prices generally range from $5 to $15 for bait bags.

4. Measuring Gauge: Ensure Your Catch is Legal

To comply with local regulations and protect crab populations, it's essential to use a measuring gauge to check the size of your crabs. Most regions have size limits for harvesting crabs, and any undersized crabs should be released back into the water. A measuring gauge ensures that you only keep legally sized crabs, contributing to sustainable fishing practices.

Top Measuring Gauges:

Danielson Crab Gauge: A reliable and easy-to-use tool that helps you quickly measure your catch.
Promar Crab Measuring Tool: Offers accurate measurements for different crab species.

Where to Buy: You can find measuring gauges at Walmart , Bass Pro Shops , and Amazon for around $5 to $10.

5. Bucket or Cooler: Keep Your Crabs Fresh

Once you've caught your crabs, it’s important to store them properly until you’re ready to cook. A bucket or cooler is perfect for keeping your catch fresh. If you're crabbing for several hours, bring along a cooler with ice packs to ensure your crabs stay lively and safe for consumption.

Recommended Coolers:

Igloo Marine Coolers: These coolers are designed to keep your crabs fresh for hours, with high-quality insulation.
YETI Coolers: Known for their superior durability and insulation, perfect for long crabbing trips.

Where to Buy: Coolers and buckets can be found at Cabela’s , Dick’s Sporting Goods , and Amazon . Prices vary from $30 to $300, depending on the brand and size.

FAQs

Q1: When is the best time to go crabbing?

A1: The best time to go crabbing is during high tide, as crabs tend to be more active when the water level rises. Early morning or late evening is often an ideal time for crabbing.

Q2: What’s the legal size for harvesting crabs in my region?

A2: Legal size limits for crabs differ by location and species. Always consult local fishing regulations to ensure you're harvesting crabs that meet the size requirements.

Q3: Can I use chicken wings as bait?

A3: Yes, chicken wings can work as bait, but chicken necks and fish heads are more effective due to their stronger scent, which attracts crabs more easily.

Conclusion

Crabbing is a fun and rewarding activity, but having the right tools makes all the difference. Whether you’re crabbing in saltwater bays or tidal rivers, these top 5 red crabbing tools—a crab pot, crabbing tongs, bait bags, a measuring gauge, and a bucket or cooler—are essential for a productive and enjoyable outing. With the right gear, you'll increase your chances of a successful catch and ensure your crabs stay fresh until you're ready to prepare them.

Get your crabbing gear from trusted retailers like Bass Pro Shops , Walmart , or Amazon , and don’t forget to check local regulations to stay compliant with crabbing laws.

For a real seafood feast, consider trying some premium King Crab options:

With these tips and tools, you’ll be ready to enjoy your next crabbing adventure to the fullest!