Hobbies And Interests
Blue Crabs
Crabbing times change depending on the desired catch. When crabbing for blue crabs, early morning to late afternoon are the best times. A moving tide also brings a more bountiful catch. During the last few hours of a falling tide, crabs are often on the move toward open water; this provides a greater catching opportunity. It is a common method to set traps at night and gather them in the early morning, allowing for a fresh and hardy catch.
Dungeness Crabs
Dungeness crabs are the most commonly sported and eaten crab on the West Coast. Dungeness crabs move closer to shore during the change from low to high tide. Depending on your location, look at your tide table and see when this change occurs. This will provide the best chance for a good catch.
Stone Crabs
Stone crabs are popular Florida native crabs. They prefer reefs, bays and rock jetties. Make sure your crabbing spot fits these parameters. The early morning and the mid-afternoon are the best times to catch these crab species.
King and Snow Crab
King crabs and snow crabs are traditionally a commercial fishing catch. These animals live in extremely cold, deep, turbulent waters. The Discovery Channel's "Deadliest Catch" is a show based on commercial fishing of these two species.
Additional Information
In most states, a fishing license is required to go crabbing from any motorized boat. Also, each state has catch limits associated with crabbing particular species. These laws vary from state; check with your state's fish and game department for specifications on crabbing, including the crabbing season.