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How to Catch Pond Crayfish

Crayfish, also known as crawdads or crawdaddies, are of interest for several reasons. They are eaten in some areas, used for fish bait and even kept as pets as new varieties are developed for the pet trade. Additionally, they are of great concern to ecologists as they are extremely invasive or able to invade new areas and disrupt ecosystems. Whatever your motivation, it is not difficult to catch crayfish in any body of water where they are present.

Things You'll Need

Minnow traps (the funnel-style works well)
Zip-ties
Rope, around fifteen feet
Flagging (optional)
Wet cat food, hot dogs, fish scraps or commercial crayfish bait
Bucket or cooler with lid

Instructions

- 1
  Assemble your minnow traps. There are several different designs, follow any instructions. Some require zip-ties to fit together.
- 2
  Attach your minnow trap to your length of rope. Zip-ties can hold them, though many designs are made of mesh that is easily tied to a rope.
- 3
  Tie flagging to the other end of your rope. This is optional. If the area you are working in is highly vegetated, it can help you find your trap later.
- 4
  Add your bait, this can be cat food, hot dogs or any similar meat-based product. Larger bait may need to be secured with zip-ties.
- 5
  Toss your trap into the water. Make sure part of the trap is above water in case you accidentally catch something other than crayfish. Tie the other end to a secure anchor on the land, like a tree, and wait at least 24 hours.
- 6
  Pull your trap back in. Place crayfish in a bucket and remove anything other than crayfish.

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