Spring means crabbing in waterways throughout New Jersey. Blue claw crabs are abundant in the state’s waters, and they are a favorite of recreational crabbers in New Jersey, according to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.
Before heading out to catch your own crustaceans, there are some important regulations and tips to know. No license is required for recreational crabbing in New Jersey if using collapsible traps or scoop nets. The crabbing season runs from mid-March through November, except in Delaware Bay where it goes until mid-December. There are size restrictions on the crabs you can keep – peeler or shedder crabs must be at least 3 inches point to point, soft crabs 3.5 inches, and hard crabs 4.5 inches. The daily catch limit is one bushel per person.
Some essential gear for crabbing includes traps, bait, a knife, rope, zip ties, gloves, boots, weights, a bushel basket, and a measuring device. Snare or pyramid traps work well for recreational crabbing. Fish, chicken, and razor clams all make good, smelly bait to attract the crabs.
A few popular crabbing spots include: Near Atlantic City along Mays Landing-Somers Point Road in Egg Harbor Township, the Route 52 Causeway fishing pier, and the bridges entering Atlantic City on Routes 322/40 and 30. In Ocean County, the Berkeley Island County Park, Mantoloking Bridge Fishing Pier, South Green Street Park, and West End Avenue Crabbing Pier. Grassy Sound Marina in North Wildwood, Cape May County. Navesink River in Monmouth County. In Cumberland County, the Dividing Creek Boat Rentals.
The best time to crab is the few hours before and after high tide. Fall tends to yield the meatiest crabs after they’ve fattened up for winter. Practical tips include making it a several-hour outing, bringing chairs and snacks, wearing sun and bug protection, keeping hand sanitizer on hand, using gloves to avoid pinches, and keeping your catch alive in a cooler until cooking.
With the right preparation and some patience, a day of crabbing in New Jersey can be a fun family activity that puts fresh blue crabs on the dinner table. Just be sure to follow the regulations, use the proper gear, and get your timing right for the most successful haul.
