how to catch blue crabs: blue crab fishing

How to Catch Blue Crabs: A Comprehensive Guide to Blue Crab Fishing

Blue crabs are a popular target for anglers and recreational fishers due to their tasty meat and thrilling catch. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or a beginner looking to try your hand at blue crab fishing, it’s important to know the different techniques for catching them. From traditional traps to handlining and even scooping crabs with a net, there are several methods to choose from. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover how to catch blue crabs, what equipment you’ll need, the best times to fish for them, and various techniques you can use to make your next blue crab outing a success.

What Are Blue Crabs?

Before we dive into the techniques for fishing for blue crabs, let’s briefly look at the species itself. Blue crabs (Callinectes sapidus) are found in both saltwater and brackish waters along the Gulf Coast, Atlantic Ocean, and even parts of the Pacific Coast. They are known for their blue claws, which is how they got their name, and their delectable meat that makes them a delicacy in many coastal regions.

Blue crabs live in shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and tidal rivers. They are omnivores and scavenge for food, making them relatively easy to catch if you know where and when to fish for them.

The Best Tide to Fish for Blue Crabs

The best time to catch blue crabs is often dictated by the tide. Blue crabs are most active during the incoming and outgoing tides, which help push food into their territory and encourage them to move toward shallower waters. Here’s what you need to know about timing your fishing trip based on the tide:

Incoming Tide (Flood Tide): This is the period when the tide is rising, pushing water into shallow areas. Blue crabs tend to move into these areas to hunt for food. The best time to fish for blue crabs is usually in the first couple of hours of the incoming tide when crabs are active and feeding.
Outgoing Tide (Ebb Tide): As the tide recedes, blue crabs will often follow it back toward deeper waters. This can be a productive time to catch crabs, particularly if they are in shallow areas or near the shoreline.
Slack Tide: The period between the incoming and outgoing tides, known as slack tide, is generally the least productive time for blue crab fishing. The lack of water movement can slow down their feeding and movement, making it harder to catch them.

For the best chances of success, aim to fish 1-2 hours before and after the tide changes during the incoming or outgoing tides. Always check local tide charts before heading out to ensure you’re fishing at the optimal times.

How to Catch Blue Crabs: Different Methods

There are several ways to catch blue crabs, each with its own unique set of tools and techniques. Depending on your location, budget, and preferences, you may opt for one method over another. Let’s explore the most popular methods for blue crab fishing:

1. Handline with Bait

Catching blue crabs with a handline is one of the most straightforward and enjoyable methods. A handline consists of a fishing line with a baited hook or a small weight attached to the end. This method works best when you’re fishing from the shore or wading in shallow waters.

How to Catch Blue Crabs with a Handline:

Bait: Use fresh chicken necks, fish carcasses, or mackerel as bait, as blue crabs are attracted to strong-smelling food. Attach the bait securely to the line.
Tackle: Use a sturdy fishing line (preferably 20-30lb test) and a small, lightweight hook or weight to hold the bait in place. Crabs are known to grab onto the bait, so you’ll want to give them enough time to latch on.
Technique: Drop the baited line into the water and wait for the crab to grab hold. Once you feel a tug or resistance, gently pull the line upward to bring the crab to the surface. Be careful not to pull too quickly, as this could cause the crab to release the bait.
Scooping: If you spot the crab hanging on the line, use a net to scoop it out of the water.

This method is ideal for people who are fishing from a dock, pier, or along the shoreline where crabs are known to roam. Check out our video on how to catch blue crabs: blue crab fishing!

2. Trot Line (Using a Boat)

A trot line is one of the most effective ways to catch blue crabs, particularly in deeper waters or areas where crabs are abundant. The trot line consists of a long, strong line that is anchored at both ends and baited with multiple pieces of food. Trot lines are generally used in conjunction with a boat because the line is set across a large area and needs to be pulled up regularly.

How to Catch Blue Crabs with a Trot Line:

Set Up the Trot Line: Attach pieces of bait (like chicken necks, fish, or squid) to the trot line at regular intervals, typically every 10-15 feet.
Anchor the Line: Position the trot line across known crab-rich areas. You’ll need to anchor the line securely at both ends (typically with weights or buoys) to ensure it stays in place.
Pulling the Line: After waiting for the crabs to latch onto the bait, pull the trot line in slowly. This method requires a boat to help you move across the line, checking each section for crabs.
Scooping the Crabs: As you pull the line, use a net or dip net to scoop the crabs off the baited hooks.

This technique is particularly useful when targeting blue crabs in deeper channels, bayous, or river mouths. It allows you to cover a large area and increase your chances of catching multiple crabs.

3. Collapsible Crab Traps

Collapsible traps are an excellent choice for anglers who want to leave their traps in the water while they wait for crabs to enter. These traps are flat and designed to fold out and create a three-dimensional structure that traps crabs once they enter. Collapsible traps are easy to use, store, and transport, making them a popular choice for recreational crabbers.

How to Catch Blue Crabs with Collapsible Traps:

Bait: Place a piece of bait (such as chicken necks or fish) inside the trap. The bait should be secured so it doesn’t float away.
Setting the Trap: Drop the trap to the bottom of the water and let it sit. Collapsible traps generally don’t require much effort beyond the initial setup. You can leave them in the water and check them every 30 minutes to an hour.
Pulling Up the Trap: After the trap has been sitting for a while, pull it up vertically. Be cautious, as crabs might scurry out if they feel the trap being lifted too quickly. Slowly and steadily pull the trap to avoid spooking the crabs.
Check Regularly: Collapsible traps are best checked often, as crabs may leave the trap once they finish the bait. Aim to pull them up at least once an hour.

This method is ideal for anglers who want to catch crabs without having to constantly monitor the line. It’s perfect for areas where crabs are abundant, and you can easily check the traps throughout the day.

4. Regular Crab Traps

A more traditional method of blue crab fishing involves using regular crab traps, which are typically box-shaped traps that sit on the bottom of the water for extended periods. These traps are larger and can be left out for several hours or overnight, making them suitable for long-term fishing.

How to Catch Blue Crabs with Regular Traps:

Bait: Similar to other methods, use chicken necks, fish heads, or other smelly bait to attract the crabs. Place the bait securely inside the trap, making sure it’s within reach of the crabs once they enter. Check out our article on the best bait for blue crabs!
Setting the Trap: Lower the trap to the bottom of the water and allow it to sit for an extended period (4-12 hours). You can leave the trap overnight if necessary.
Checking the Trap: After waiting for several hours, return to check the trap. If you’re successful, you should find a few crabs inside. Slowly pull the trap out of the water and carefully remove the crabs.

While this method requires more patience, regular crab traps can yield a substantial number of crabs when used in the right locations, particularly in areas with high crab populations.

5. Catching Blue Crabs with Your Hands

If you’re in shallow waters or near the shoreline, you might even try catching blue crabs with your hands. This method can be both challenging and rewarding, as it requires patience and a keen eye.

How to Catch Blue Crabs with Your Hands:

Find the Crabs: Look for blue crabs in shallow waters, especially near submerged rocks, grass beds, or sandy bottoms.
Sneak Up on the Crabs: Gently approach the crabs from behind. Blue crabs are fast, so you’ll need to move cautiously and slowly.
Grab the Crab: Once you’re close, carefully grab the crab from behind its legs, holding it firmly by the back legs. Avoid grabbing the claws, as they can pinch you.

This method requires great timing and quick reflexes but can be very rewarding when done correctly.

Tips for Success

Use Fresh Bait: The fresher your bait, the more likely you are to attract blue crabs. Consider using chicken necks, fish heads, or mackerel as they are some of the best options.
Wear Protective Gloves: If you’re using your hands or handling traps, wear gloves to protect yourself from crab pincers.
Check Local Regulations: Ensure you’re aware of local fishing regulations, such as limits on crab size, daily catch limits, and specific seasons for crabbing.

Conclusion

Catching blue crabs can be an exciting and rewarding experience for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you’re using a handline with bait, a trot line, a collapsible trap, or simply grabbing crabs with your hands, the key to success lies in knowing the best techniques and timing your outing with the proper tide. By following the tips in this guide, you can maximize your chances of catching blue crabs and enjoy a delicious seafood feast! Happy crabbing!