Where to Buy Crab Pots Near Me: A Complete Guide

Crab pots are a great way to catch fresh crab for a tasty meal. But where can you find crab pots for sale nearby? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about buying crab traps locally.

What Are Crab Pots and How Do They Work?

Crab pots also known as crab traps are cage-like devices used to catch crabs. They are typically cube or pyramid shaped, with one or more funnel-like openings that allow crabs to enter but not exit.

Bait is placed inside the pot to lure crabs in. Once inside, the crabs cannot get back out through the funnel opening. The pots are then lowered into the water and left to soak. After some time has passed, the pots are retrieved and the crabs collected.

Crab pots work well for both recreational and commercial crabbing. They are an easy, effective way to haul in a fresh bounty of delicious crabs.

Where to Buy Crab Pots In-Store

Looking to buy crab pots in person rather than online? Here are some of the top retailers to check out

Sporting Goods Stores

Major sporting goods stores like Dick’s Sporting Goods and Academy Sports + Outdoors carry a wide selection of crab pots and traps from trusted brands. You’ll find collapsible crab pots, wire pyramid traps, bait cages, and more.

Dick’s has over 15 different crab pot options available both in-store and online. Brands carried include Promar, Marathon, and Lee Fisher. Academy also stocks crab traps and accessories from brands like Promar and Happy Crabs.

Fishing and Marine Supply Stores

Local fishing, boating, and marine supply retailers are another go-to option for finding crab pots in stock. Stores like West Marine, Bass Pro Shops, and Cabela’s have aisles dedicated to crabbing and crab trap supplies.

West Marine has a “crabbing corner” in some locations with everything from folding crab traps to crabbing nets. Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s also stock crab pots and accessories from trusted manufacturers.

Hardware Stores

Major hardware chains such as Home Depot and Lowe’s sell crab pots and accessories, usually during peak crabbing seasons. Stock is more limited compared to sporting goods stores but you may be able to find a basic folding crab trap kit or collapsible pot.

Local Bait and Tackle Shops

Mom and pop bait and tackle shops in coastal areas often carry crab traps and gear. Support a local business while also getting expert advice on the best crabbing spots and techniques for your area.

Just keep in mind that small tackle shops may have limited inventory that sells out quickly during peak crabbing season. Calling ahead to check availability is recommended.

Buying Crab Pots Online

In addition to in-store retailers, there are tons of options for purchasing crab pots online and having them shipped directly to your door. Here are some top e-commerce sites to browse:

• Amazon: Choose from dozens of crab pot styles with free Prime shipping on many items. Top brands carried include Promar, Happy Crabs, FTC, and Danielson.

• Walmart: Walmart has a dedicated online selection of over 35 crab traps and accessories with free 2-day shipping on orders over $35. You’ll find collapsible traps, bait cages, and complete crab trap kits.

• Cabela’s: The online selection at Cabelas.com rivals what you’ll find in-store. Shop crab traps and pots from brands like Promar, Frabill, and Marathon.

• Academy Sports + Outdoors: Browse and buy crab traps online at Academy with options for in-store pickup or delivery. Find folding traps, bait cages, and accessories.

• West Marine: West Marine has a “Crabbing Corner” online with a variety of crab pots, plus lines, nets, and bait boxes for a complete setup. Free shipping on orders over $49.

When buying crab pots online, be sure to factor in any shipping costs. Retailers like Amazon and Walmart with free shipping options can sometimes be cheaper than buying locally with the convenience of delivery.

What to Look for When Buying Crab Pots

Keep these tips in mind when shopping for crab pots:

• Material: Pots made of vinyl-coated steel wire are durable and rust-resistant. Avoid cheaper plastic models that can break.

• Entries: Look for at least two funnel-shaped openings so crabs can easily enter from multiple angles.

• Size: The larger the pot, the more crabs you can catch. But make sure any pot will fit on your boat or dock.

• Portability: Folding or collapsible pots are great if you need to transport to different locations.

• Extras: Some pots convert to bait boxes or come with accessories like bait bags, trap lines, and weights.

Do You Need a License to Use Crab Pots?

In most states, you need a fishing license that covers crabbing in order to legally use crab pots. Some states require an additional license or permit specifically for crabbing. Research your state’s recreational crabbing regulations to make sure you have the proper credentials.

There are also often rules related to:

• Crab pot sizes and number of pots allowed
• Crabbing seasons and geographic limitations
• Keeping only male crabs of a certain size
• Using biodegradable trap lines

Make sure to follow all regulations to avoid getting ticketed and having your equipment seized. The local fish and wildlife agency website will have specifics on licenses and legal crabbing in your area.

Tips for Using Your Crab Pot

Once you’ve purchased your crab pot, use these tips for success:

• Add bait: Bait your pot with fresh fish, chicken, or clams. Place the bait in a bait cage or bag attached inside the pot.

• Weight it: Add weights to the bottom of the pot so it sinks and doesn’t shift around.

• Use a line: Attach a line to retrieve the pot later. Use a cotton or biodegradable line if required.

• Situate the pot: Lower your baited pot into a crabbing “hot spot” like rocky outcroppings or estuaries.

• Give it time: Let your crab pot soak for at least 30-60 minutes before pulling it up.

• Check regulations: Make sure you’re following local rules for pot placement and soak times.

• Retrieve carefully: Slowly pull up the pot, being careful not to lose any crabs.

• Measure crabs: Double check all caught crabs are legal size and male or female as required.

• Reset the pot: Bait and lower the pot again for your next haul.

With the right crab pot and location, you’ll be on your way to a successful fresh crab feast. Use this guide to find crab pots and traps available near you.