Catching Blue Crabs

Crabbing methods range from simple and inexpensive to an elaborate investment of time and money. A dip net is the primary catching device that also serves to transport the crab to your container. But what happens if the crab gets loose?

Crabs are quick and can bite or pinch with their claws. Although they seldom do more than draw a little blood, the bite can momentarily be painful. It is a good idea to learn how to handle a live hard-shelled crab with your bare hands.

A crab must be held from the back, away from the snapping claws. But in order to get hold of it, you must first find a way to keep it still. Press lightly on the top shell with a shoe, stick, or other device. Too much pressure will crack the shell.

The thumb(s) should then be placed on top of the swimming paddle where it meets the body (shell) and the forefinger(s) are placed underneath where the same swimming paddle meets the underbody. All of the other fingers are closed into the palm of the hand. Keep a firm grip on the crab. When it is held tightly, you can then pick it up without being bitten.

It is not possible for the crab to reach back and bite the fingers because of its body conformation. If you are a little nervous, or the crab seems rather large and strong, use both hands...one on each swimming paddle to pick it up!