Are you gearing up for crabbing season but unsure where to get your hands on the perfect bait? Chicken necks have long been the go-to choice for recreational crabbers across the country, and for good reason! As an avid crabber myself, I’ve spent years perfecting my bait strategy, and I’m here to share everything I know about sourcing those magical chicken necks that crabs just can’t resist.
Why Chicken Necks Are a Crabber’s Best Friend
Before diving into where to buy them, let’s quickly understand why chicken necks are so darn popular for crabbing:
- Super affordable compared to other bait options
- Strong scent that travels far in water (crabs can smell these babies from a distance!)
- Excellent durability that holds up well during long soaking times
- Easy to rig on various crabbing setups
I remember my first crabbing trip when I used some fancy commercial bait that cost a fortune My buddy brought chicken necks and caught twice as many crabs at a fraction of the price Lesson learned!
Top Places to Buy Chicken Necks for Crabbing
Finding quality chicken necks doesn’t have to be a wild goose chase (or should I say chicken chase?). Here are your best options in 2025:
1. Local Grocery Stores with Butcher Counters
Your neighborhood grocery store is often the most convenient option, especially if you’re making a last-minute crabbing trip. Head straight to the meat department and ask the butcher if they have chicken necks available.
Pro tip Call ahead to check availability especially during peak crabbing season when demand can be high. I’ve found that building a relationship with your local butcher can sometimes get you a better deal or even a call when fresh necks arrive.
2. Asian Supermarkets
Asian markets are absolute gold mines for crabbers! These stores typically stock a wider variety of poultry parts than standard grocery stores, including plenty of chicken necks Check the frozen meat section if you don’t see them in the fresh meat counter.
What I love about Asian markets is that they often sell chicken necks at much lower prices than regular grocery stores. Last summer, I found them for almost half the price of my local supermarket!
3. Specialty Bait and Tackle Shops
Bait shops in popular crabbing areas often carry chicken necks specifically packaged for crabbing. The advantage here is that the staff can provide expert advice on using them effectively.
I’ve found that these shops sometimes charge a premium compared to grocery stores, but the convenience factor can be worth it when you’re already at your crabbing destination.
4. Captain Bruce’s Crabbing Supplies
If you’re serious about your crabbing game, specialty suppliers like Captain Bruce’s Crabbing Supplies offer high-quality bait options. Their online store offers:
- Chicken Necks – 5lb bags for $10
- Fowl Necks – 10lb bags for $15 or 40lb boxes for $45
- Other Options – They also sell razor clams and shrimp heads if you want to experiment
The best part? You can pre-order your bait online and pick it up at their Crabbing Barn in North East, MD. Just remember to text Tim at 443-967-3041 before picking up to confirm your order!
5. Direct from Poultry Farms or Butcher Shops
For the most cost-effective option when buying in bulk, consider going directly to the source. Local poultry farms or dedicated butcher shops often sell chicken necks at wholesale prices.
My experience: I made friends with a local poultry farmer last year and now get my chicken necks at almost half the retail price when buying 20+ pounds at a time. Perfect for those weekend-long crabbing trips!
6. Online Retailers (Use Caution)
While some online retailers do sell chicken necks, I’d approach this option with caution. Shipping costs can be high, and there’s always the concern about freshness. This option makes sense only if you’re buying in bulk and having it shipped frozen.
How to Choose Quality Chicken Necks for Crabbing
Not all chicken necks are created equal! Here’s what to look for:
- Freshness: Look for pinkish or reddish color. Avoid discolored necks or those with a funky smell.
- Fat Content: Some fat is good for scent, but too much leads to faster disintegration in water.
- Size: While size isn’t super critical, larger necks are sometimes easier to handle and rig.
Proper Storage for Maximum Effectiveness
Once you’ve scored your chicken necks, proper storage is crucial:
For Long-Term Storage:
- Divide necks into portion sizes suitable for a single trip
- Place in airtight freezer bags or containers
- Freeze immediately
For Short-Term Use:
- Store in the refrigerator in sealed containers to prevent odors from spreading
- Use within 1-2 days for optimal freshness
Thawing Before Use:
Always thaw frozen chicken necks in the refrigerator, NOT at room temperature. Room-temp thawing can promote bacterial growth and create a smelly mess in your cooler!
Pricing: What to Expect in 2025
Chicken neck prices vary by location and supplier, but here’s a general guide:
- Grocery Stores: $1.50-$3.00 per pound
- Asian Markets: $0.50-$2.00 per pound (best value!)
- Bait Shops: $2.00-$4.00 per pound
- Specialty Suppliers: Captain Bruce’s offers 5lb bags for $10 ($2/lb)
- Bulk Purchases: Can be as low as $0.50-$1.00 per pound when buying direct
I’ve found that buying in larger quantities almost always saves money in the long run, especially if you freeze what you don’t immediately need.
Alternative Baits Worth Considering
While chicken necks are my go-to, I sometimes mix things up with these alternatives:
- Razor Clams: More expensive but highly effective (Captain Bruce’s sells these from $20/gallon to $70/bushel)
- Shrimp Heads: Great alternative with strong scent ($55 for a 40lb box at Captain Bruce’s)
- Bunker Fish: Works well but deteriorates faster than chicken necks
- Commercial Crab Baits: Convenient but typically more expensive
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Necks for Crabbing
Can I use frozen chicken necks for crabbing?
Absolutely! Frozen chicken necks work perfectly fine. Just make sure to thaw them properly before use. I actually prefer buying them frozen and thawing as needed.
How do I rig a chicken neck for crabbing?
The simplest method is tying the neck directly to your crab trap or line using twine or fishing line. Some crabbers (myself included) prefer using mesh bait bags to contain the neck and prevent it from being easily picked apart by smaller crabs.
How often should I replace chicken necks in my trap?
This depends on water temp and crab activity, but generally, replace them every 2-3 hours or when they no longer emit a strong scent. In really warm water, you might need to replace them more frequently.
Are there any regulations about using chicken necks for crabbing?
Always check your local and state regulations. Some areas have restrictions on bait types or crabbing locations. And please, dispose of used chicken necks responsibly!
Can I reuse chicken necks after crabbing?
I wouldn’t recommend it. Used chicken necks may be contaminated with bacteria and will have lost much of their scent. Fresh bait = better results!
Final Thoughts
Finding quality chicken necks for crabbing doesn’t have to be complicated. With the options outlined above, you should be well-equipped to source the perfect bait for your next crabbing adventure.
My personal strategy? I buy in bulk from my local Asian market at the beginning of crabbing season, freeze what I don’t need immediately, and always keep a backup supply of commercial bait for those days when I can’t get fresh necks.
Remember, successful crabbing isn’t just about having the right bait—it’s about using it effectively, knowing the best spots, and enjoying the experience. But having a good supply of fresh chicken necks certainly doesn’t hurt!
What’s your go-to place for buying chicken necks for crabbing? Have you tried any of the sources mentioned above? I’d love to hear your experiences in the comments below!
Happy crabbing, friends!
This article was last updated in September 2025 to reflect current prices and availability. Prices may vary by location.
Are razor clams really worth the money? Find out! We conducted a bait test.
24/7 (Text Tim at 443-967-3041 for confirmation before coming out to pick up your bait).