13 best crab traps

Crab traps are devices used in fishing to catch crabs. They are designed to attract crabs with bait, entice them into the trap, and then prevent them from escaping. Here's what you need to know about crab traps:

  1. Types of Crab Traps:

    • Wire Mesh Traps: These are the most common types of crab traps and are made of wire mesh or netting material. They come in various shapes and sizes, including rectangular, cylindrical, and conical designs.
    • Box Traps: Box traps are typically square or rectangular and consist of a frame covered in mesh. They are often used for catching blue crabs.
    • Ring Traps: Ring traps are circular and usually have a bait bag in the center. They are commonly used for catching Dungeness crabs and snow crabs.
    • Cage Traps: These traps are cylindrical and have a bait container in the center. They are often used for catching larger crabs like king crabs.
  2. Baiting: Crab traps are baited with various types of bait, including fish heads, chicken necks, or other smelly substances that attract crabs. The bait is placed inside the trap to entice the crabs.

  3. Operation: When the crab is attracted to the bait and enters the trap, it can find its way in but struggles to find the exit due to the trap's design. Once inside, crabs are often unable to navigate the maze-like structure to escape.

  4. Escape Rings: Many crab traps have escape rings or openings to allow undersized or juvenile crabs to exit the trap, promoting sustainability by avoiding the capture of immature crabs.

  5. Buoyancy and Retrieval: Crab traps are typically weighted to sink to the bottom of the water. A line with a buoy is attached to the trap to mark its location and facilitate retrieval. Fishermen periodically check the traps and pull them up to collect the caught crabs.

  6. Regulations: The use of crab traps is subject to fishing regulations and seasons, which vary by location and crab species. It's important for fishermen to be aware of and adhere to local fishing laws to ensure responsible crab harvesting.

  7. Maintenance: Crab traps require regular maintenance to ensure they are in good working condition. This includes cleaning, repairing any damage, and replacing worn-out parts.

  8. Variations: Depending on the type of crab being targeted and local fishing traditions, there may be variations in trap design, baiting methods, and materials used.

  9. Crabbing Locations: Crab traps are used in various water bodies, including oceans, bays, rivers, and estuaries. Different crab species inhabit different types of habitats, so trap placement can vary accordingly.

Crab traps are an effective and widely used method for catching crabs for both commercial and recreational purposes. They offer a convenient and passive way to harvest crabs, making them a popular choice among fishermen and seafood enthusiasts.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best crab traps on the market
  

Danielson Pacific FTC Crab Trap-24in x 24in x 13in,Blue

Danielson

Based on 539 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Danielson Pacific FTC Crab Trab is constructed of vinyl-coated steel wire and measures 24" L x 24" W x 13" H. It features four entrance doors and two escape rings for small crabs with a fall-away rot-cord system to disable the trap should it not be retrievable. Folds flat for easy transport and storage.

  • As a favorite of sport and recreational crabbers throughout the Pacific Northwest for the last 40 years, the original folding crab trap for Pacific Northwest crabs has sold over 1 million traps
  • Constructed of vinyl coated heavy duty steel wire, its durable design stands up to heavy use in salt water
  • The trap expands to 24 x 24 x 13 inches and folds flat for easy transport and storage and features four entrance doors and two escape rings for small crabs
  • Proven effective at catching Dungeness and Rock Crabs and meets all legal requirements for crab traps in Washington and Oregon with a fall away rot cord system to disable the trap should it not be retrievable
  • Simple design ensures easy bait placement for bait cages or bait bags. Catch your own delectable crab

User questions & answers

Question: Does it come with the rod-cord
Answer: i do not know want a rod-cord. is if you are asking if it comes with a rope then no it does not
Question: Is there a bait cage in the trap
Answer: No you will have to get one. But the Danielson bait trap is great.
Question: after assembling the trap I broke the rubber bands off, are these supposed to stay on the entry doors I so how do the crabs get in
Answer: The rubber bands need to be removed. Crabs get in by pushing the doors in. They can't push out. If you are in California, you do have to modify the excapes ring with the cotton line to meet the new regulations.
Question: Can this cage catch lobsters
Answer: It won't catch any lobsters, unless it's pig size lobsters

Promar TR-555 Folding Crab Trap with top Door 24"" x 22"" x 13""", Multi

Promar

Based on 71 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Headquartered in Gardena, California – Promar is a global leader of fishing tackle accessories and outdoor products. With over 60 years of manufacturing and product development experience, we currently manufacture more than 500 products under our brands. Driven by innovation and rooted in quality, Promar premium products are designed, built, and customized to provide an enhanced experience for the outdoor enthusiast.

  • 4 entrances
  • Collapses flat
  • Hinged tending door
  • Two 4 3/8 inch escape rings

User questions & answers

Question: What do you use the trap for
Answer: This trap is designed for Dungeness, Rock, and Stone Crab. This trap is not recommended for Blue Crab.
Question: There were rubber bands on the trap doors when I got it but not in pictures. Are they required to keep doors shut
Answer: I think those are just for shipping. Legally, at least in California, it is required to have cotton rope which can rot away and release the crabs should the crab pot be lost.
Question: Are the grid openings small enough to prevent blue crabs from escaping
Answer: The escape holes are 4 3/8" and the grid is much smaller than that. Typical Legal limit for blue crab is 5" (at least here in SC) so this should be fine.
Question: Can the crab go outside the trap door or it’s one way open door
Answer: The entrance doors on this trap are one-way doors. The crab can get in, but not get out.

Product features

Promar TR-555

Perfect for crabbing, the Promar Folding Crab Trap makes a great choice for recreational and professional crab enthusiasts. Featuring four entrance doors, a tending door, and two 4 3/8" escape rings, you are able to catch and hold the desirable sized crabs you’re after. Construction of vinyl-coated steel wire, this durable trap folds flat for easy transport and storage.

Angler Access

Trap is constructed with harvest door on the top of the trap. Trap does not include a bait box/holder.

FJ Neil 225-CT Snap Trap Crab Trap,Black

FJ Neil

Based on 379 reviews Check latest price

Product description

FJ Neil 225-CT Snap Trap Crab Trap

  • Fj Neil 225-Ct Snap Trap Crab Trap
  • Package Height Of The Item Is 1.3"
  • Package Length Of The Item Is 15.8"
  • Package Width Of The Item Is 10.7"

User questions & answers

Question: Does it come with a bail cage inside
Answer: No
Question: Do this trap fold up
Answer: It could if you wanted it to but I would leave it unfolded after you open it the first time so you can keep it clean.
Question: Can this be opened from the top
Answer: No- two hinged doors fall open from the sides. When you pull the rope, those two doors close.
Question: What are the dimensions
Answer: This one works better- Jmkcoz 1PC Crab Trap Crawfish Lobster Shrimp Collapsible Cast Net Fishing Nets 10" x 17.7" (25cm x 45cm) Black Portable Folded Fishing Accessories https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JYLBX7Y?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

Bewinner Fishing Net Portable Folded Nylon Fish Baits Cast Mesh Trap Cage Automatic for Catching Smelt, Eels, Crab, Lobster, Minnows, Shrimp and Crawfish

Bewinner

Based on 49 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Description:

This automatic fishing net is best fishing accessory. It can raise your fishing efficiency, help you catch varies kinds of fish such as crab, minnow, shrimp, lobster and crawfish. 6 holes/12holes design helps you catch more fish.



Specifications:

Condition: 100% Brand New and High Quality

Material: Nylon

Size: 6 Holes: Approx. 58*22cm/22.8*8.6"

        12 Holes: Approx. 58*34cm/22.8*13.3''(optional)

Package Weight: Approx. 150g/195g



Packing List:

1 x Fishing Net

  • Easy to use, when pull the top rope, then quickly opened, needn't install, very convenient
  • Fishing Net Trap with six enter design are great for catching smelt, eels, crab, lobster, minnows, shrimp and crawfish
  • Use six solid steel bar bracket, so that the net could strong
  • Special zipper design for easy take out the fish, crab, lobster and crawfish
  • Qualified Nylon material, solid and strong, you can use it for a long time

Promar TR-530C2 Heavy Duty Crab Pot with Complete Rigging

American Maple Inc

Based on 281 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Promar tr-530 heavy duty crab pot is one of the most popular crab traps used in the Pacific Northwest for Dungeness, Stone, and rock crab. This trap is a proven force for recreational anglers who target these larger stature crab species. This purchase will also include the Promar ne-104 4 Arm crab pot harness and the ne-103cr kit. Essentially this purchase include all needed components for rigging the heavy duty crab pot.

  • Vinyl coated steel construction
  • 3 entrances
  • 4 Arm harness
  • 100 ft lead line
  • 5" X 11" Red and white PVC float

User questions & answers

Question: Is the 4 arm harness vinyl or steel
Answer: This 4 arm harness is vinyl with plastic hooks. I recommend replacing the 4 arm harness that comes with the kit with one that has metal hooks and is better secured from hook to rope. The one that it comes with can easily come apart from rope to hook. But everything else the kit comes with works perfectly.
Question: Doe this trap fold down to become flat for storing purposes
Answer: No, it does not fold down. However, there are other promar models and other brands that do. A tip is also use weights inside the trap, it’s a little light so it doesn’t necessarily drop straight down in currents.
Question: Is this California compliant? Are escape rings big enough? Is the biodegradable string and door compliant with regulations
Answer: This product is California compliant. The escape rings are 4.25" and the cotton cord is rigged according to CA regulation.
Question: What is the diameter and height
Answer: The diameter is 32", and height is 11".

Promar Collapsible Crawfish/Crab Trap 24"x18"x8" - American Maple Inc TR-101, Fishing Accessories, Multi, One Size

Promar

Based on 477 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Widely used by professionals, commercial fishermen, scientific groups, and recreational anglers to catch fish and crustaceans such as crawfish and crab. The fully collapsible design allows for easy baiting and tending as well as efficient transport and stowing. Once collapsed the traps take only a few seconds to set back up. Comes with starter drawstring bait bag, securing clamps, and easy carry handle. Measures 24-Inch Length, 18-Inch Width, 8-Inch Height. Check your local and state regulations for season and gear restrictions.

  • Trap collapses to less than 1-Inch for easy stacking, stowing, and transport
  • Takes seconds to bait and set up
  • 2 entrances
  • Effective and efficient

User questions & answers

Question: how heavy is this cage
Answer: It is not heavy the cage frame is about 8 gauge metal and the screening is like a nylon. I would say maybe 1-2lbs
Question: Can this be used to catch dungeness crabs
Answer: I am not sure, the trap opening(s) are a narrow slits that the crap actually has to push at nylon mesh to slip thru to get in to the trap. It worked great on Blue Crabs and the trap folds nice and flat, easy to transport. I got a metal clip for the center of the trap to make sure it did not open accidently and tied my buoy rope to the that clip.
Question: Does this work on an ocean pier
Answer: You would have to weigh it down to use it on a pier. I've caught plenty of blue crab off the pier. Works great!
Question: Will this trap hold up to for Blue Crabs and Stone Crabs
Answer: We only used it for blue crabs and it worked fine. We were pleasantly surprised that it worked given its collapsible feature.

Product features

Promar TR-101

Widely used by professionals, commercial fishermen, and scientific groups to catch fish and crustaceans, these multipurpose traps are popular simply because they are effective. Unlike traditional traps, their collapsible design allows fishermen to carry more traps while eliminating excessive bulk on board.

Angler Access

Centered hinged closure with locking snaps.

SOUTH BEND Hurricane F210 Hr Crab Trap Sq 10.5X10.5X10.5, Multi, One Size

HURRICANE

Based on 315 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Hurricane® offers a broad selection of rods, reels, combos, tackle and accessories that saltwater anglers turn to for high-quality, great performance, and exceptional value. We combine high-end technology and countless hours of on-water experience to meet the specific needs of the inshore, back country, offshore and blue water anglers. Sold on both coasts, and designed for use in warm gulf coast waters and icy Alaskan waters alike, Hurricane® offers one of the best buys in saltwater fishing tackle today.

  • Great Performance
  • Durable to withstand salt water use
  • Quality salt tackle at a great value
  • Fishing equipment nets & traps

User questions & answers

Question: What size is the mesh on this trap? I'm looking for 1 1/2" square mesh
Answer: These traps are garbage don't waste your money
Question: how do I ASSEMBLE THE SQUARE CRAB TRAP
Answer: I got it for a gift so I didn't assemble but my nephew we got it for figured it out easy so I guess it's not that hard but it layed flat in the water until till he pulled it up and out to trap them in.
Question: Are the steel pieces on this trap galvanized
Answer: I am not sure. However, it lasts for years without being rusted. It looks like good black paint.
Question: I am confused as to how the crabs are captured in this trap? Can someone explain it
Answer: When you submerge the trap and it hits the bottom the sides open; when you pull the trap back up the sides close.

KUFA Vinyl Coated Crab Trap Accessory Kit (100' Lead Corerope, Clip, Bait Case 11" Red/White Float) (2 Pack)

Zaltana Camping -- Dropship

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

KUFA sports crab traps and accessories offer sport fishermen a wide variety of proven styles and sizes of live traps for crabbing. Our traps/pots and all kind of accessories are fishing the Pacific ocean in California, Oregon, Washington, British Columbia and Alaska. Please chose the right trap and accessories according to your local fishery regulation.

  • Vinyl coated crab trap (24"x24"x12")
  • 5/16 inch x100' lead core line; crab Clipper (good for WA,or & al); durable 4 arm harness
  • Bait bag with rubber locker easy to open and classes;5"x11" Red/White float

KUFA Vinyl Coated Crab Trap Accessory Kit (100' Lead Corerope, Clipper, Bait Case & 14" Red/White (2 Pack)

Zaltana Camping -- Dropship

Based on 51 reviews Check latest price

Product description

KUFA sports crab traps and accessories offer sport fishermen a wide variety of proven styles and sizes of live traps for crabbing. Our traps/pots and all kind of accessories are fishing the Pacific ocean in California, Oregon, Washington, British Columbia and Alaska. Please chose the right trap and accessories according to your local fishery regulation.

  • Vinyl coated crab trap (24"x24"x12")
  • 1/4 inch x100' lead core line; crab Clipper (good for WA, or & al); durable 4 arm harness
  • Bait bag with rubber locker easy to open and classes; 6"x14" Red/White float
  • Country of Origin:China

User questions & answers

Question: Can I use them in California
Answer: I use them in CA although they have to be altered. The escape holes need to be bent in a little to satisfy CA’s size opening of 5”.
Question: Will this work for everyone
Answer: I’d say no!! They’ll only work for crabs.
Question: Are they great for the Delaware bay
Answer: I dont know i use them in the ocean but i had to put weights in the bottom of them to make them sink fast but other than that they are great
Question: Do the traps collapse for easier storage
Answer: Yes, it can collapse to almost flat. Thanks!

Product features

KUFA Vinyl Coated Crab Trap Accessory Kit (100' Lead Corerope, Clipper, Bait Case & 14" Red/White (2 Pack)

  • Vinyl coated crab trap (24"x24"x12")
  • 1/4 inch x100' lead core line; crab Clipper (good for WA, OR & AK); durable 4 arm harness
  • Bait bag with rubber locker easy to open and>

Drasry Crab Trap Bait Lobster Crawfish Shrimp Portable Folded Cast Net Collapsible Fishing Traps Nets Fishing Accessories Black 23.6in x 11.8in (60cm x 30cm)

Drasry

Based on 579 reviews Check latest price

Product description

►Made from 0.16" high-quality steel wire and thickened polyethylene mesh for better catching perfor mance and durability, the simple design is the perfect gift for casual anglers.

►The open design makes it easier to remove the prey captured in the net. Avoid being bitten by prey during operation

►Round fold able design saves storage space and is easy to carry

►Can apply for returns or exchanges within 30 days of purchase if you are not happy for any reason.

Easy to use:

Simply place the bait in the bait bag, then hang the bait bag into the middle of the net. place the trap in the water, and wait for the prey to enter the trap from both sides of the entrance.

Specifications:

SIze: 11.8" x23.6" (30cm x 60cm);

Material: Nylonand alloy

Mesh Size: 0.39in *0.39in (1cm *1cm)

Enter Diameter: 5.1in/13cm

Notice

*Please put the fishing net in theventilation place to dry up and then folded up, in order to make it moredurable.

  • MAterial: The galvanized 0.16 in steel wire is used as a circular spring cage, and the mesh of the polyethylene mesh is hand-processed to provide stability and durability and convenience. Suitable for salwater and fresh water
  • DESIGN: 7.1in (18cm) network entrance and 0.39in/1cm mesh design to help you catch more prey you want to catch
  • ADVANTAGE: The special openable design makes it easier to take out the captured prey. Avoid being bitten by prey during operation. Package: 1* Fishing Trap, 2 * 32 Feet(10Meter) Hand Ropes, 1 * Bait Bags, 1* Trap Bag
  • EASY TO CARRY: Size: 11.8 in x 23.6 in (30cm x 60cm), foldable design, easy to carry up without taking up space. It is the first choice for most outdoor recreational fishing.
  • APPLICATION: It can be used to catch crabs, baits, lobsters, crayfish, shrimps, reptiles, etc. Simply place the bait in the bait bag, then hang the bait bag into the middle of the net, place the cage in the water, and wait for the prey to enter the cage from both sides of the entrance

User questions & answers

Question: Do you think a 1lb mudcuat could fit through. Black Bullhead where im from, sometimes yellow
Answer: Absolutely
Question: Will this fit on a kayak? And what bait for fresh water shrimp
Answer: Can be used when the kayak is docked There are many kinds of foods that shrimps like. Most shrimps prefer carcasses of animals and plants. You can choose dead fish, bread crumbs or dog food.
Question: can you catch blue crabs
Answer: Yes, Great for blue crabs.
Question: How would you catch shrimp with it
Answer: I been catch alot of crawdads and crabs with this. Caught a few cat fish so I pretty sure shrimps will be easy to catch. Once in they cant get out.

Product features

Openable-cover design fishing trap:

Expanded size: 23.6in x 11.8in (60cm x 30cm)

Material: polyethylene mesh, 0.16in thickness steel wire

Mesh size: 0.39in * 0.39in (1cm * 1cm)

Entrance: double entrance, 5.1in (13cm) network entrance

Foldable design for easy carrying and space saving

KUFA Sports Stainless Steel Frame Casting Crab Trap with 100' Rope (CR56)

KUFA Sports

Based on 189 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This trap can be cast by hand or with use of a fishing rod Includes 100 feet of smooth casting braided rope A great trap for use from the dock, shore or boat; for depths down to 100 feet Size: L 22 x H 12 x W 2 Weight 1lbs

  • This trap can be cast by hand or with use of a fishing rod
  • Includes 100 feet of smooth casting braided rope
  • A great trap for use from the dock, shore or boat; for depths down to 100 feet
  • Stainless Steel frame with plastic bait bag
  • Trap Dimension: 22" (open Diameter); Weight: 1lB

User questions & answers

Question: Does it come with the bait box
Answer: It have a bait bag in the center (The black one). Thanks!
Question: Is it spring loaded to stay open
Answer: Yes it is!
Question: can you use this to catch blue crabs? Thanks
Answer: I live in off of the Puget Sound in Washington State where we have dungenuss and red rock crabs. I've lived in Virginia where I've have fished for blue crab and would imagine this trap would work as well.
Question: What size are the eyes (holes
Answer: 5cm single side.

Joy Fish Maryland Blue Crab Pot Trap, PVC Coated Wire mesh, Heavy Duty, Two T.E.D. (Turtle Excluder Device), Two Escape Rings, Float, Rope, Ready for use,

Lee Fisher International Inc.

Based on 81 reviews Check latest price

Product description

**Commercial grade wire mesh heavy duty ** Two escape rings to meet regulation **2 funnel to catch more crabs **come with 15 ft rope with white float to pull and release easily. **Float to identify trap location. **PVC coated wire mesh **Two T.E.D.(Turtle Excluder Device) meet regulation.

  • Maryland Atlantic blue crab, heavy duty, two escape ring, two TED(Turtle Excluder Device) meet regulation

User questions & answers

Question: Will this trap collapse
Answer: Not sure. I leave mines whole and, slide it back into the box it came with.
Question: what are the demensions of this pot
Answer: 24" width x 12" length x 12" height with floats, hand line
Question: The photo shows two traps? Does it come assembled
Answer: Hi; It is only one trap that is assembled. It has a bait box in the center and, one end opens up to pull or shake out the crabs. I have this trap also.
Question: Is this foldable
Answer: No

Protoco Economy Crab Ring, Blue/Orange, 24 X 17-Inch

Protoco Enterprises

Based on 63 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Economy Crab Ring was designed for the person who wants to catch the most crab with every pull. Simply toss the Crab Ring into the ocean and let the Crab come climbing to the delicious bait. The Crab Ring measures an impressive 24" diameter x 17" high. This is a perfect Crab Ring when space is limited. The mesh that is used is tarred so you do not have to think about it rotting.

  • These pots are favorites of sports and commercial crabbers
  • All Economy Crab Rings include a Free Orange Polyethylene coated bait box to keep your bait where the crabs have to come in for a little nibble
  • The steel frame is coated in an extremely durable Blue Polyethylene coating to protect against all of the elements of the salt water
  • The wire used is Stainless Steel to prevent corrosion and add years of uninterrupted service
  • Protoco also uses tarred netting to withstand the elements of the ocean

User questions & answers

Question: Will this work for blue crab
Answer: Yes
Question: is this a commercial fishing pot will i get in trouble if i use it
Answer: Not a commercial pot, however check your local laws to see if you need a permit for crabbing as many municipalities require one even for recreational crabbing/lobstering
Question: Does it come with something to hold the bait
Answer: Yes, a small metal screen box. I zip tie chicken quarters to it.
Question: What tis the difference from the protoco standard vs economy crab ring
Answer: it Comes down to you get what you pay for.Since i bought the standard and have had no problems other than a sore back from pulling many limits of tasty Crab. I would recommend going with the standard.

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