Where to Buy Crab Pots: The Ultimate Guide

Crab fishing is a popular recreational activity and hobby for many people. Nothing beats the satisfaction of pulling up a trap full of feisty, delicious crabs. But before you can go crabbing, you need to get your hands on some crab pots. Choosing and buying crab traps may seem confusing to beginning crabbers, but it doesn’t have to be. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to find the best crab pots for your needs.

Crab Pot Materials

Crab pots can be constructed from various materials, with the most common options being wire, plastic, and collapsible vinyl-coated metal frames. Each material has advantages and drawbacks.

• Wire Wire crab pots are the classic, old-school choice favored by many crabbers. They are durable, rigid, and inexpensive The openings in the wire allow water to flow freely through the trap The downside is that wire traps are bulkier and heavier than other options.

• Plastic: Plastic crab pots are lighter, easier to transport, and very affordable. They often feature multiple entrance points to entice crabs. However, plastic tends to degrade over time in saltwater. Plastic traps may not last as long as wire.

• Collapsible: Newer collapsible vinyl-coated crab pots offer the best of both worlds. They fold down for compact storage and transport. When set up, they are rigid and roomy. The vinyl coating resists corrosion. They are a great option, but cost more than basic wire or plastic versions.

Crab Pot Sizes

Crab pots range in size from around 12 inches across to over 24 inches across Consider what size crabs are abundant in your area,

• Small traps: Best for catching small crabs and working off docks or piers. Easier to manage. Often rectangular or pyramid-shaped.

• Medium traps All-around size good for medium crabs like Dungeness. Round shape provides good internal volume

• Large traps: Ideal for bigger crabs or commercial use. The most room to attract and catch many crabs. Bulkier to maneuver and haul.

Matching the cage size to the common crab size will optimize your catches. Of course, small crabs can still enter bigger pots.

Where to Buy Crab Pots

Once you know what kind of crab pot you need, where should you look to buy one? Here are some of the top options for purchasing crab traps:

• Local bait and tackle shops: Your neighborhood fishing store is a great place to find crab pots. They’ll have a good selection of pots in stock at various price points. You can see products first-hand before you buy. And you’ll be supporting a local business.

• Big box sporting goods stores: Major retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods have a strong crab pot selection, especially during peak crabbing seasons. You’ll find major brands and competitive pricing. The inventory may be more limited than a dedicated local shop.

• Online retailers: Websites like Fisheries Supply offer the largest selection of crab pots available. You can find specialty pots not available locally. Shipping large traps can be expensive, so factor that in. You can’t evaluate pots hands-on before buying.

• Direct from manufacturers: Some major crab pot brands like Lester’s Crab Pots sell direct to consumers through their own website. You may find discounts, and can ask customer service questions directly. Just be aware of shipping costs.

Key Crab Pot Features

Keep these features in mind when selecting your crab trap:

• Entrance designs: Look for pots with inward-slanting entrance tunnels. These make it easy for crabs to enter, but difficult for them to exit. Multiple entrance points further entice crabs.

• Bait compartments: Built-in bait containers help center and contain the bait, keeping it away from trapped crabs. Bait wells with secured lids are especially useful.

• Weighting: Weighted traps stay put on the bottom. Pots with reinforced bottoms hold up better over time.

• Line attachment: Sturdy pull lines must be secured well to the pot. Look for robust tie-down points or harnesses.

• Collapsible options: Folding pots with removable or telescoping frames take up less space for storage and transport.

• Escape panels: Recreational pots are required to have degradable panels that open after a certain time underwater, avoiding ghost fishing if pots are lost.

Crab Pot Accessories

Don’t forget extras like:

• Floats and buoys to mark and retrieve your pots.

• Rope/line for lowering and lifting traps.

• Bait bags and receptacles to hold and contain bait.

• Gloves to handle feisty crabs safely.

• Crab measuring tools to ensure legal-sized catches.

With the right gear, you’ll be ready to reap the rewards of crabbing in no time. Happy pot hunting!