Best Crab Traps Reviewed and Rated in 2024

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
Danielson Pacific FTC
Test Winner: Danielson Pacific FTC
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Fishing and crab trapping are popular sports enjoyed by many throughout the world. Not only can it be a leisurely activity by the pier with your family and friends, but it can also provide delicious meals that you can make yourselves. Avid crab trappers can seek licenses to enjoy this sport, and this helps them enjoy their activities at the maximum level. To take advantage of the approaching crab trapping season, you may want to invest in a trapping aid that can help you catch the most crab you possibly can. These tools or nets can help you bait, lure, and catch crabs in the fastest, most efficient way possible. The type of crab bait you need depends on whether you are baiting crab for commercial or recreational use.

Standout Picks

Danielson Pacific FTC
This well-built crab bait is ideal for catching and luring all kinds of crab or lobster. With its large dimensions, many points of entry, and easily foldable features, this is one of the best baits on the market, for commercial or recreational use. These can work in the East or West Coast and is especially great for catching large amounts of Dungeness crabs.
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ICE SEA
This ICE SEA Foldable Fishing Net comes in a unique design and works in a different way from a cage. Similar to an umbrella, you pull the strings that are attached to open the net up, and it’s ready to use. This multi-functional fishing net is meant to catch not just crabs, but a number of different sea critters like shrimp, minnow, fish, and crawfish.
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RUNACC
This portable, folded fishing net has a unique foldable spring design that pops open when you’re ready to use. Similar to a laundry hamper, it’s spiral and circular in motion to encase a large number of fish tea lobster, crabs, fish, crabs, crawfish, and lobsters.
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Jmkcoz
This is a terrific, no-frills product for catching a large number of fish, lobster, shrimp, and crab. With it’s easy to use design and low effort, many customers are very satisfied with this product. What’s better than simply placing the bait, coming back in a couple hours, and seeing it filled with your future dinner?
Amazon Link
Noa Store
Similar to the ICE SEA Foldable Fishing Net, this Noa Store New FIshing Bait also opens in the same fashion. Simply pull the lever, place the bait, and wait. With its large holes, this fishing net is meant to catch a large number of crustaceans.
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KUFA
This highly durable crab bait is meant specifically for crabs and lobsters. With its large diameter and circular design, this crab bait is optimal for catching crabs and lobsters of all sizes. Customers are very satisfied with the success rate of this product, and some claim they catch more with this than a commercially sized pot!
Amazon Link
$59.99
Danielson  Jaw
This offers a very unique approach to catching crabs and lobsters that many may enjoy. As the title implies, this net acts as a “jaw” and springs closed once the prey has landed inside the net at the bottom (similar to a Venus Fly bait). Once you feel the tug, you pull it back up which allows the crab bait to entangle the prey.
Amazon Link
$14.35
Promar TR-530
This heavy duty crab pot was specifically designed for large Dungeness crab in the Northwest but can be used on the East Coast as well. Meant for large amounts of crab and long periods of soaking, this heavy duty crab pot is sure to catch a large number.
Amazon Link
$185.41
Goture
The Goture Double Ring Crab Baits are very popular in the Oregon and Washington coast, where larger crabs prevail. Because of this, the hoop net features a large circumference and deep net to ensure that it can hold large crabs. This works similar to a fishing net where you cast the net over with the line and pull it back up once you catch your prey.
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Palmyth
The Palmyth Wire Grid Bottom Crab bait is designed for the person who wants to get the most crab with every pull. Not meant for commercial use, but still large enough and effective enough to catch large amounts of crab, this crap trap can be enjoyed by everyone.
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Criteria Used for Evaluation

Model

As shown by the number of differences in the crab baits above, there are several criteria one should consider before purchasing a crab bait. You want one that best fits your geological location, your needs, and preference before making the purchase.

There are three major different type of crab baits available. As listed in the list, one of the major types is box crab baits or crab pots. These are commonly used today in both commercial and recreational purposes because of its effectiveness in catching large amounts of crabs. These tend to be larger and more heavier-duty and are meant to be in the water for long periods of time to ensure the largest catch. Because these type of pots catch so many at once, it can be extremely hard to pull the box up by itself, so this activity is often done by fisherman or in groups of people. These crab baits have multiple entrances for maximum catching and are made from heavy-duty wires made of metal. These can often be shaped in a cube or circular pot shape with multiple entrance points. These are very difficult to store for the average person because of its large size and inability to be folded or compressed into a smaller size.

This is why so many fishermen use these types of crab pots for commercial use because it is extremely effective in catching large amounts of crab. The type of crab pot can also vary based on the geological location- there is a difference between a Maryland crab pot and a West Coast crab pot, because of the size of the crabs in those areas. Maryland crab pots tend to have smaller openings because blue crabs are smaller than Dungeness crabs of the west coast. Make sure you look for the description and see the specifications of the type of crab these pots are meant to catch.

Another popular type is the ring net crab bait or hoop net crab bait. There are a few of those items listed in our list. The general design of these type of crab baits is that it sports two metal rings, one smaller and one larger, that are wrapped in a durable, high-quality mesh net. The large ring should be the entry point for the crabs and is perfect for luring them in and bait ping them. The bait should be stored in the middle of the rings so the crabs can get easily trapped. These are very lightweight and convenient because they are easy to be folded, stored, and cleaned. This type of crab bait is also enjoyed by many as a hobby because the act is similar to fishing, in that it requires patience and the ability to spot the tug and retrieve the line quickly.

This type of crab net requires special positioning and attention- unlike heavy duty crab pots, you want to watch the rope carefully to ensure that the crab has been caught, and pull them back up quickly so they don’t escape.

There are also pyramid crab baits that mimic the pulling of an umbrella. These are very easy to use because all you need to do is open the pyramid bait- there should be a number of hole-shaped entry points or openings that lure the crabs in. Once the grabs seek the bait, the pyramid should snap and bait them. These are not meant to be used in fast moving river conditions as they are free-standing and require a base or ground to be propped up on.

10 Best Crab Traps

1. Danielson Pacific FTC

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Danielson Pacific FTC
Amazon Link

This well-built crab bait is ideal for catching and luring all kinds of crab or lobster. With its large dimensions, many points of entry, and easily foldable features, this is one of the best baits on the market, for commercial or recreational use. These can work in the East or West Coast and is especially great for catching large amounts of Dungeness crabs.

This crab bait is one of the largest out there on the market- with dimensions of 24” by 24” by 13”. Built from very sturdy and heavy wire, this crab bait provides enough support and weight to contain a large amount of bait and crabs.

This features four entrance doors and two escape rings for the smaller size crabs, so you’ll be sure the crabs won’t be able to escape. All you need to do is set the bait for the crabs, wait, and lift up your crab bait! You’ll be surprised to see how many crabs this can hold.

Considering that this is one of the largest crab baits or crab pots on the market, this bait is a bargain! If you are an avid fisherman, crabman, or lobsterman, you understand how expensive it is to buy seafood at the market or restaurant. This bait ensures your time is well spent. Also, it is constructed of vinyl-coated steel wire, ensuring it’s durability in harsh conditions.

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2. ICE SEA

Where to buy
Amazon Link
ICE SEA
Amazon Link

This ICE SEA Foldable Fishing Net comes in a unique design and works in a different way from a cage. Similar to an umbrella, you pull the strings that are attached to open the net up, and it’s ready to use. This multi-functional fishing net is meant to catch not just crabs, but a number of different sea critters like shrimp, minnow, fish, and crawfish.

This fishing net comes in a number of different variations, depending on how many holes you want on your fishing net. This is a 360-degree fishing net and can range from 6 holes to 20 holes. You want to get the ones with larger holes if you want to use this to catch larger crabs- for smaller crustaceans, get the one with smaller holes.

This comes with a red color 360-degree you pull which causes the entire fishing net to open in a 360-degree net. All you would need to do is place the bait in the middle of the net, and the special bottom hole allows you to remove the fish or crabs very quickly. Once you’re done, it’s easy to fold back up and place back into the carrying pack it comes with.

This is a very affordable product. The design is guaranteed to catch something because of it’s foolproof bait and bait design. The material is meant to withstand still water conditions, but you want to be wary of using this fishing net in fast river conditions.

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3. RUNACC

Where to buy
Amazon Link
RUNACC
Amazon Link

This portable, folded fishing net has a unique foldable spring design that pops open when you’re ready to use. Similar to a laundry hamper, it’s spiral and circular in motion to encase a large number of fish tea lobster, crabs, fish, crabs, crawfish, and lobsters.

This fishing net has been upgraded to feature 100% brand new and high-quality springy wire with great netting capabilities. This makes it highly durable and resistant to wear, and perfect for entrapment.

There is a unique bait and pouch zipper access, which makes it easy to place your bait to bait your fish, and even easier to take out what you caught. There are also 2 no return entrances that are designed to catch even more fish and crab.

This fishing and crab bait is highly affordable. Considering that it’s made from quality material that is resistant to tear and meant to hold a large number of crabs and fish, this fishing net is a perfect purchase. It is a necessary tool for all fishing lovers.

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4. Jmkcoz

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Jmkcoz
Amazon Link

This is a terrific, no-frills product for catching a large number of fish, lobster, shrimp, and crab. With it’s easy to use design and low effort, many customers are very satisfied with this product. What’s better than simply placing the bait, coming back in a couple hours, and seeing it filled with your future dinner?

This is made from galvanized steel wire and nylon. It’s also upgraded to be waterproof, ensuring that it’s stronger in water and increase the amount of fish or crabs you can catch. You can tailor it according to your needs, depending on how deep it needs to go. This increases the service life of the net, ensuring that you’ll use this tool with you on all your fishing trips.

Customers love how easy this is to use- simply put the bait in the cage after it has been sprung open, and place the cage in the water, and wait! The fish, minnow, shrimp, etc will swim through the two (front and rear) entrances of the cage and won’t be able to come out again. Simply come back and lift up your cage and you’re good to go!

This product comes in at best value on our list, with it having the most affordable price point. This product is quality guaranteed and JMKCOZ will give you a three-month replacement guarantee if you are not satisfied with the product. Considering that is is made to be durable and waterproof, this is a safe bet.

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5. Noa Store

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Noa Store
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Similar to the ICE SEA Foldable Fishing Net, this Noa Store New FIshing Bait also opens in the same fashion. Simply pull the lever, place the bait, and wait. With its large holes, this fishing net is meant to catch a large number of crustaceans.

This fishing bat has 12 large entrances when it’s folded open, making it a perfect entry point from any angle. Because this springs out in a 360 circular pattern, your prey is guaranteed to hit all entry points. Customers boast that this net can hold up to 30 large fish when they pull it back up.

The last thing you want is for your prey to escape, or for your net to lose traction and float away. The solid steel bar bracket embedded within this net ensures that the net stands strong, even when filled with moving fish, minnow, shrimp, and crabs.

This product comes at a very reasonable price point and is perfect for those shallow and still waters. Similar to the ICE SEA fishing net, these types are meant to stand still and not ideal for fast-moving waters, which is not helpful to catch fish and keep them trapped.

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6. KUFA

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$59.99
KUFA
Amazon Link

This highly durable crab bait is meant specifically for crabs and lobsters. With its large diameter and circular design, this crab bait is optimal for catching crabs and lobsters of all sizes. Customers are very satisfied with the success rate of this product, and some claim they catch more with this than a commercially sized pot!

This design has two concentric rings that are held together by heavy-duty polyethylene 18-inch netting with a 16-inch deep ring that makes this perfect for catching and holding crabs. This makes this ideal for long soaks and inclement weather.

This product is designed specifically for these clawy creatures and ensures that your crab bait is protected to last. The steel ring ensures durability in tough condition, and the bright orange rope provides visibility in harsh conditions.

Because this product is made from a higher-grade netting and larger in size than most fishing nets, it comes with a higher price point. Customers boast that the success rate of this is great, being able to catch a large amount of crab and lobster, so this may definitely be worth the price point.

Amazon Link
$59.99

7. Danielson Jaw

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$14.35
Danielson  Jaw
Amazon Link

This offers a very unique approach to catching crabs and lobsters that many may enjoy. As the title implies, this net acts as a “jaw” and springs closed once the prey has landed inside the net at the bottom (similar to a Venus Fly bait). Once you feel the tug, you pull it back up which allows the crab bait to entangle the prey.

This works similar to a fishing line in that you attach the net to the rope, and wait for the pull to bring it back up. Because it is bait ready and spring-loaded, the net can catch up to 3-5 crabs at once and secure your crabs safely. It is meant to be used in crab-ready areas and not meant to be left for long periods of time.

The spring coil in this fishing net is able to snap into place quickly once the prey has caught the bait. You will get a quick tug from the recoiling of the spring and should retrieve the net quickly. The net can even hold up to chicken leg for bait, and some customers state this works even better than a large crab pot.

This is a very highly rated product that can even catch blue crabs, so you know it’s worth the price point, which is very affordable. This type of crab trapping can be enjoyed by all ages, and you can’t put a price point on memories!

Amazon Link
$14.35

8. Promar TR-530

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$185.41
Promar TR-530
Amazon Link

This heavy duty crab pot was specifically designed for large Dungeness crab in the Northwest but can be used on the East Coast as well. Meant for large amounts of crab and long periods of soaking, this heavy duty crab pot is sure to catch a large number.

These have a large, sturdy design that is meant to hold the largest of crabs. These are also meant to weigh down and withhold harsh climates without swaying from side to side. The dimensions at 30-inches by 10-inches, made of blue steel that is meant to keep put.

With its circular pot design and large openings, this crab pot is sure to catch the largest of crabs and lobsters. This design also makes it very easy to place the bait and open the large hatch easily to remove the crabs at once.

Being that this is a heavy duty crab pot, it does come at a higher price point than most on this list. This crab pot is not meant for one individual, as it can be very heavy to hoist the crab trap up by oneself when it is full. Although this may cost more, you are getting more for your money with the amount of crab you can catch at once, which may well be worth it.

Amazon Link
$185.41

9. Goture

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Goture
Amazon Link

The Goture Double Ring Crab Baits are very popular in the Oregon and Washington coast, where larger crabs prevail. Because of this, the hoop net features a large circumference and deep net to ensure that it can hold large crabs. This works similar to a fishing net where you cast the net over with the line and pull it back up once you catch your prey.

These have a large, sturdy design that is meant to hold the largest of crabs. These are also meant to weigh down and withhold harsh climates without swaying from side to side. The dimensions at 30-inches by 10-inches, made of blue steel that is meant to keep put.

With its circular pot design and large openings, this crab pot is sure to catch the largest of crabs and lobsters. This design also makes it very easy to place the bait and open the large hatch easily to remove the crabs at once.

Being that this is a heavy duty crab pot, it does come at a higher price point than most on this list. This crab pot is not meant for one individual, as it can be very heavy to hoist the crab bait up by oneself when it is full. Although this may cost more, you are getting more for your money with the amount of crab you can catch at once, which may well be worth it.

Amazon Link

10. Palmyth

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Palmyth
Amazon Link

The Palmyth Wire Grid Bottom Crab bait is designed for the person who wants to get the most crab with every pull. Not meant for commercial use, but still large enough and effective enough to catch large amounts of crab, this crap trap can be enjoyed by everyone.

The bottom ring features wire material with a solid bait attachment, ensuring that the crabs can easily go to the bait and get trapped. The design also makes it easy for you to pull up ensure the crabs get caught effectively in the net.

This comes with an extra gift bait clip that you can secure to the bottom ring, which ensures that you can catch more crab. Because it is secured to the bottom, you know that the crabs will remain trapped inside the nets.

This price point is comparable to standard crab nets- with a galvanizing coating, polyethylene roping, and a 50’ rope netting, this is a solid purchase that guarantees a bait.

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