How to Crab Using Recreational Nets
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Use a dip net for harvesting crabs in shallow areas.Jupiterimages/BananaStock/Getty Images
Search in shallow areas where crabs congregate, such as areas around pilings, bulkheads and piers. Chase the crabs with a dip net and scoop them down with the net from under then pull up. Dip nets are recreational crabbing nets attached to a long wooden handle. - 2). To reach farther, use dip nets with longer handles when crabbing from a boat. Move your boat slowly in shallow waters with reed or high grass and in protected marshes where crabs tend to rest or linger at the surface. Move as close as possible and then scoop crabs with your net. Crabs in these spots are typically soft-shelled.
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Use a hoop net if you prefer baiting and trapping crabs. A hoop net is tied to a long string and has two circle rings interwoven with a nylon net. The smaller ring at the bottom typically has an attached bait cage. Use baits such as raw pieces of chicken, eel, squid or fish. Place the bait inside the bait cage and secure with zip ties. Hoop nets can be dropped from a pier, kayak or fishing boat. Tie the end of the rope to a secure structure, then hold the hoop and toss like a Frisbee into the water. Keep holding the rope until you feel it stop pulling. Wait for about 10-15 minutes then pull the rope up in a rapid but calm fashion. - 4). Examine your catch before harvesting. Ensure that you keep only the crabs allowed by your state regulations. Carefully return any crabs you can't keep into the water.
- 5). Harvest the crabs and transfer to your catch container or crab box. Use tongs and crabbing gloves to protect your hands from their sharp claws.
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