Best Blue Crab Traps | Top 7 Best Crab Traps You Can Buy Now

Most people love crabbing because of two significant reasons. The first one is it doesn’t require a lot of experience and the second one is they can turn into delicious meals.

Catching crabs are very easy; even a newbie who has never held a rod before can do it in the right direction, provided that you are maintaining the right equipment.

To catch a bunch of crabs, the leading equipment you would need is a crab trap. The wrong trap will cause you to lose crabs that you might have caught easily.

And that is what makes it mandatory that you choose the best crab trap.

In this very article, I have come up with the 7 best blue crab traps, which are widely used for most crabs.

Go through all these traps; you will find different types of traps here, and then choose one that suits your need.

Here you go!

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7 Best Blue Crab Traps- Comparison Table

Top 7 Best Blue Crab Traps Reviewed

1. Promar TR-530 (Professional’s Choice)

Promar TR-530 probably won’t steal your heart at first glance. But as the old adage goes, don’t judge a book by its…you know the full version, right?

Behind the humble cover of the crab pot, I’ve found the construction to be so rugged that it can withstand the toughest conditions a crab trap can ever go through!

No wonder it’s considered to be one of the staples in crab fishing in the Pacific Northwest by experts. Its unparalleled durability is what makes it stand out from the crowd, making it perfect for professional usage.

In addition to that, it also comes a good number of accessories that allow you to get started with crab fishing right away without requiring anything else.

Prmar TR-530 surely comes with a steep price. But on the other hand, the cost of replacing the lesser expensive traps regularly can accumulate quickly too, you know.

Keeping that in mind, it will be a way better investment because of the longevity.

Overall, if you have the budget and plan on going for crabbing frequently, this heavy-duty crab trap will be the best for you.

2. 2-Pack of KUFA Vinyl Coated Crab Trap (Value for Money)

As you can guess already from the name, this is a pack of two. Now, it’s not the crab trap per se that gives you the most bang for your buck, it’s the combination package. If you’re a serious crabber, you’ll surely appreciate being able to catch more crabs with the help of two traps deployed at the same time. That being said, the trap itself is important too. Let’s check that out quickly.

Firstly, compared to similar traps, KUFA Crab Trap has more entrances that allow it to catch more traps. The durability is great and storage is easy as well- thanks to the fully collapsible and stackable design.

The package comes with plenty of accessories which is also another reason why it’s the most value for money trap you can get. The fewer additional equipment you need to purchase, the better – simple math.

In a nutshell, if you’re looking for something that will deliver the most value for your money – this two-pack crab trap is what you should get.

3. KUFA Round Crab Trap (Best for Beginners)

KUFA Round Crab Trap is one of the easiest to use crab traps on my list, which is exactly why I would highly recommend this for beginners. When the whole idea of crabbing is as simple as it can be, someone who’s just trying to get started shouldn’t ever be slapped with a trap that is a pain in the neck to use.

And this crab trap is the total opposite of that.

Starting from the basics, the prey removal process is a piece of cake. Placing the bait in is a no-brainer as well even if you have no prior experience. The accessory kit consists of everything you’ll need to get started with crabbing, so this trap can be used immediately out of the box.

Whether you’re a beginner or just want something that is easy to use, KUFA Round Crab Trap is very less likely to disappoint you.

4. Maryland Blue Crab Pot Trap (Best Blue Crab Trap)

It’s become a norm for crab traps to have escape holes that allows smaller crabs to escape to make sure they don’t make the trap overcrowded. That is a very necessary feature, indeed. Especially considering the fact that most people are into larger crabs.

Unfortunately, crab traps with such escape holes are totally unsuitable for blue crabs as they can also escape through them because of their small size. The only way to catch blue crabs is to use something that is designed for that purpose – Maryland Blue Crab Pot Trap is the perfect example of that.

Along with being suitable for blue crabs, this also has a few useful features like built-in TEDs,  bait holder and pretty good durability. Not to mention, its lightweight makes it easy to carry around too.

So, if you’re in the mood to trap some small crabs, Maryland Blue Crab Pot Trap would be a decent choice.

5. Promar TR-555 (Best Budget Trap)

Promar TR-555 is for those who are on a budget but not willing to compromise on quality.

It has an adequate number of trap entrances along with escape doors as well, to make sure those smaller crabs don’t crowd up inside. The construction is rigid enough to last you quite some time. As for portability and ease of storage, the full collapsibility and stackable design have got you covered.

Promar TR-555 is certainly not the best crab trap you can get yourself, but you can’t really go wrong with it given the price.

6. Danielson Pacific FTC Crab Trap

Danielson Pacific FTC Crab Trap has been chosen by over hundreds of thousands of crabbers in the last 40 years. Such a timeless trap it seems, right?

Let’s have a quick look at what it has and, of course, what it’s capable of.

The collapsibility comes first, it’s fully collapsible so transportation and storage would be a breeze. On the note of storage, it’s stackable which is another plus.

The fall away rot cord system is a total game changer that lets you to set the crabs free in case the trap can’t be retrieved (if it gets stuck somewhere, for example).

Lastly, with Danielson Pacific FTC Crab Trap, you don’t have to worry about whether you’re crabbing in the sea or fresh water – it handles both with ease.

Overall, this crab trap has a simple and effective design that is packed with a few nifty features. Given how long it’s been a popular choice for, this is definitely a contender worth checking out.

7. Promar Collapsible Crawfish/Crab Trap (Most Portable)

Promar Collapsible Trap has earned a reputation for being the multi-hyphenate one of crab traps and I must say, the title is very well-deserved.

When I took a look at the features, the first thing I noticed was this crab trap consumes lesser than an inch vertically when folded. To give you an example, even my good old Nokia 1100 probably takes up more space than this!

Talk about good first impressions. But wait, that isn’t what makes it multifaceted. The extremely low setup time and versatility do.

Take it out from the storage or boot and within seconds, it’ll be fully set up! Did you want more options for dinner? Genie from Aladdin must’ve overheard you, because you can catch both blue crabs and crawfish with this trap!

To wrap things up, this is a very versatile and portable crab trap that you can store and carry around easily. If versatility and portability are something you care about, this trap from Promar would be your best bet.

8.    ICE SEA Foldable Crab Trap

This one is not similar to the cage, it is different and not only for crabs, but fishers can also get used out of it even in catching shrimp and some other fishes such as crawfish. As the name suggests, it is also a foldable trap. You can fold it back to the case when not in use.

It is a 360 fishing trap, and there are some variations of this ICE SEA Foldable Crab Trap. The hole ranges from 6 to 20 and also has different hole sizes.

The more hole a trap has, the more crabs or shrimps it will be able to trap. And the larger the holes, the more giant crabs it will be able to catch.

It is a highly affordable crab trap and also very effective. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, then the ICE SEA Foldable Crab Trap is your thing.

And not to forget, when using this trap, you should keep in mind that you should not place it in a fast-running river.

9.    RUNACC Portable Folded Crab Net

This trap design little different; it comes with a unique folding technique and has a significant holding capacity. It has a spring design that pops up and folds easily when you are ready. The shape of this trap is like a laundry hamper.

The manufacturer has used top-notch spring wire, which is durable and also unique netting which won’t wear off quickly. It features two entrances and no escape holes that ensure nothing goes out from inside.

This net also features a pouch zipper in the middle from where you are supposed to put the bait or take out the crab, shrimp, or anything else trapped inside. Anglers can use this trap to store fishes that they would catch.

And lastly, this RUNACC Portable Folded Crab Net is reasonably priced and still offers excellent service.

10.    Danielson Four Door Octagon Crab Trap

Are you looking forward to catching only giant crabs? Then you might want to have a look at the Danielson Four-Door Octagon Crab Trap. The manufacturer has used top-notch vinyl-coated steel wire construction in this model, which makes it highly durable.

This trap has four entrances and no escape way for giant crabs. Small crabs can easily escape from the net holes, so this one is not for small crabs.

It also features a large top opening hatch along with a stretch tube and hooks closer. Removing caught crabs or anything else is very simple and easy. This trap also features a bait cage, which means that even the trapped crabs also won’t eat the bait.

The Danielson Four-Door Octagon Crab Trap is a little heavy, which makes carrying a little challenging. Without that, this is an effective cage trap that will bring you a good amount of big crabs.

Little More About Danielson Pacific FTC Blue Crab Trap

The Danielson Pacific FTC is one of the biggest crab traps you will find in the market right now, and it is perfect for catching giant crabs and lobsters. If you are looking forward to catching small crabs, this trap might not work well for you.

That is because it comes with four entrance and two escape ring which is for small crabs. It constructs with vinyl-coated steel wire, and it can last for really long if cared for properly.

Except for all these, I loved the most about this trap because it is collapsible and stackable, which makes it easy to carry and store. Overall, the Danielson Pacific FTC is a large trap that can easily hold a large pool of crabs and lasts for an extended time.

More About Promar TR-555 Folding Crab Trap

If you want a trap that you can easily carry anywhere and catch a good amount of big crabs, then the Promar TR-555 crab trap is what you are looking for. The best feature of this model is, it is collapsible.

You can fold it flat when not in use; this makes it suitable for many crabbers. It can use to catch different types of crabs. Like few others in the list, this one also got vinyl coated steel wire construction, making it highly durable.

Moreover, this cage trap is entirely rust and corrosion-resistant. Unlike a few similar models, this Promar TR-555 comes with four entrances, and that gives you more crabs at once. This trap cage is for giant crabs; it has two small holes for small crabs to escape.

How to Choose the Best Crab Pot?

Hundreds of options out there can make anyone confused, and if you are a newbie, then there is significantly less chance that you will pick the right crab trap. This guide is for newbies who don’t have any idea about crabbing or traps.

I have demonstrated some factors that you have to consider right before you purchase a crab pot. 

So here you go!

Types of Crab Traps 

Crab traps come in different types suitable for different needs. There are mainly four types of crab traps, and among them, two are widely used.

Handline trap: 

This one is a very simple trap, a weighted hook is attached to the end of the rope, and the weighted hook prevents the bait from floating up. You have to tie the other end of the rope with something strong enough so that the crab doesn’t pull all the line into the water.

( Have you checked the list of top crab baits yet?)

By hooking the bait properly, you can eliminate the risk of crab escaping the bait easily. When everything is set correctly, the hook is thrown into the water at least 28 to 10 ft.

You can throw the hook from the bank or the side of the boat, and when the hook is down into the water, wait until you see any line movement.

If you see the line moving, that is because the crab is trying to get the bait, and exactly that is when you would want to pull the line up slowly. Once the bait comes closer and you can see it, there should be a crab.

If there is no crab, then bad luck. Throw out the bait and add new and then again repeat the process. But if you see a crab holding the bait, then you have to be a little careful.

Do not pull the crab up immediately; keep that inside the water and scoop the crab out with the help of a net. Make sure you pick a bigger net than the crab you just have caught; otherwise, you will lose the crab.

Box Trap: 

This type is widely used by avid crabbers because this is a very effective way to get hands-on a good amount of crabs. Box crab traps come with a lot of entrances, ranging from four to twenty. The more entrance a trap has, the more crab it can trap.

Box crab traps construct of metal wires, and they also come in two types. Some box traps are collapsible, which means you will be able to fold them flat after use, making it easier for you to carry and store the case.

And some are not collapsible; carrying and storing these types of box traps are a little challenging. 

Lastly, box traps are highly durable.

Ring Net Trap: 

These crab traps are priced cheaply and not as durable as box traps. Well, if you don’t know what ring net traps are, they include two metal rings, one small and one big. And they are wrapped around a net.

This trap looks like a basketball net. The only difference is, basketball doesn’t have a closed and small ring attached to the bottom. Ring net traps are straightforward to carry and store. They are very lightweight.

Pyramid Crab Traps: 

These traps are a little similar to the box traps, composed of metal wires and pyramid-shaped. That is why they are called pyramid crab traps. Bait places in the middle of the trap, and when crab comes in, there is no way to go out. This is how pyramid crab traps work.

Commercial crab: 

Commercial crab traps are not commonly used since they require a license. These traps are large, and they are placed in water for a couple of days. Hence they also bring a large pool of crabs.

Capacity

How many crabs do you want to catch at once? You have to the amount, and then you have to pick a trap according to that. Knowing the capacity will allow you to find the best fit for you. Whether you are a regular crabber or an occasional one, it would be wise to pick a medium-high capacity trap.

Another thing is, all traps are not ideal for all sizes of crabs. There are crab pots that only trap big crabs. So if you are looking forward to catching small crabs, make sure you choose the right.

Let me give you an idea if a crab pot net whole is big; smaller crabs will escape easily, so that is not for small crabs. Small crab traps will have very small net holes through which there is no way that a single crab will escape.

Collapsible

Some box traps are pretty irritating since they are heavy and hard to carry. And that is why few manufacturers have invented collapsible crab traps. These traps will go flat when not in use, making it easier for you to store and carry them anywhere.

Even though collapsible crab traps are a bit expensive, but they worth every penny. I would suggest everyone go with foldable box crab traps.

Durability

You won’t be changing the crab traps after every couple of use. And that is what makes it mandatory that you choose a trap that can last for a long period. So what you have to do is you have to check which materials the manufacturer has used in the construction.

Is the material used durable? You can make a quick search on the internet to know about that material. Even if you have to spend more bucks, pick a durable one. To save some money, people choose cheap quality products, and they spend more money in the long run.

How to use Crab Pots to Catch Crabs Easily?

Since there are different types of crab traps available, there are various ways too. You can use other traps, you can use a fishing rod, and even you can catch crabs with your hand. But do not try to catch crabs with your hand if you have never done it before.

They might hurt you badly. There is no point in buying a top-notch crab trap if you don’t know how to use it, and that is why now I will show you how to use each type of crab trap to catch crabs easily.

Let’s go!

Ring Trap

Ring traps stay flat on ocean ground, enabling crabs to enter the trap easily, and once they walk in, you have to pull it up. Remember, if crabs can walk in easily, they can walk easily too, so you have to wait for the right time.

You can’t remove your attention from the ring when underwater, and you have to check on it often since nothing will prevent the crab from escaping. You have to do all the work.

It is easy to catch crabs with a ring trap when you can see the crab walking in, which means when the water surface is not too far. And if you have thrown the ring into deep water, you can still feel when the crab is coming in by the rope’s movement you are holding.

When pulling up the ring net, make sure you do it fast. The water pressure will prevent the crab from escaping from the ring; otherwise, crabs will run easily.

Box Traps

Box traps are more versatile effective than other crap traps. These boxes have a place for baits at the center, and even some box has bait case too, which makes sure that crabs inside also don’t get the bait.

When crab sees the bait, they look for ways to get to that, and that is when they find out the trap entrances, which only allow the crab to go inside. Once they go inside, there is no way that they would get out of it.

You don’t have to pay much attention to the box trap when crabbing. Just put a couple of box traps in the water and do something else.

In my case, when I go fishing in the morning, I put four or five traps in the water, and then I don’t even think about it. When I am done with my fishing, I pull all of them, and I have never been disappointed. 

( Have you check top-trending ultralight reels in the market yet?)

Some major advantages of using box traps are collapsible, which are very easy to carry and store. Box traps are highly durable, and they are effective for trapping a good amount of crabs securely.

Crab Hawk Trap

Crab Hawk traps are like a book, and it has two sides which close smoothly. These traps consist of two wire panels wrapped with a durable net, and there is a place for bait in the middle. Hawk traps are attached to the fishing line and cast by rods. 

Talking about rods, have you checked the top list of spinning rods yet?

Yeah, it will give you a different feel of fishing for sure. Here is how crab falls into the trap. When you cast the hawk, and it reaches the base of the water, both sides lie flat in the ground. And only the bait remains exposed.

When crab walks over the hawk to get bait, that is when you have to pull the rod. Pulling the rod will close the hawk and will trap anything in the middle. But how could you know when a crab is stepping in?

You will need a little bit of experience to be able to detect that properly. You have to pay close attention to the line movement. When anything touches the hawk, the line will move, and you have to guess what’s hopping down there.

There are a few reasons why most people like this trap. The first one is, Crab hawk traps are very cheap; they come at an extremely affordable price. Second, these traps are very small and lightweight that makes them easier to carry and store.

And the last reason is, crabs get appropriately trapped in it. Not as secure as box traps, but still, if once a crab gets trapped, it wouldn’t be able to escape. Plus, when they walk on the net, their legs get tangled.

Most Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

So this is it. These are the best blue crab traps you can find in the market right now. Saying again, you can trap almost all kinds of crabs by these crab pots. However, hope you have found the right fit for you, and with that said, I am wrapping this article up. Happy Crabbing!!!

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