You're standing at the seafood counter watching Dungeness crab sell for $25 per pound, knowing these delicious crustaceans are crawling along the ocean floor just miles away. For the price of two pounds of crab, you could own a quality trap and feast on fresh Dungeness all season long.
But with hundreds of crab traps for sale flooding the market, choosing the right Dungeness crab catcher feels overwhelming. Should you invest in a heavy-duty round pot or save money with a collapsible trap? What about bait choices and proper setup?
The Promar TR-530C2 Heavy Duty Round Pot, SMI Heavy Duty Crab Trap, and Danielson Pacific FTC Crab Trap consistently outperform others for catching Dungeness. Each excels in different conditions, which we'll explore in detail.
This comprehensive guide reviews 15 proven traps, reveals commercial crab bait for Dungeness secrets, provides setup instructions, and shares money-saving tips that'll have you catching limits while others go home empty-handed.
Top 3 Best Crab Traps for Dungeness
Promar TR-530C2 Heavy Duty Round Pot
The Promar TR-530C2 dominates West Coast crabbing with its 20-pound steel construction and vinyl coating. Three entry doors with one-way gates ensure crabs check in but don't check out. At 30 inches wide, this trap holds plenty of keepers.
Commercial crabbers choose this design because it withstands rough Pacific conditions. The included 4.5-inch escape rings meet legal requirements in California, Oregon, and Washington. Its weight eliminates the need for additional sinkers, even in strong currents.
Best for Beginners: Danielson Pacific FTC Crab Trap
The Danielson Pacific FTC makes crabbing accessible with its collapsible design and affordable price point. Measuring 24"x24"x13", this trap offers ample space while folding flat for easy transport and storage.
Four side entrances maximize catch rates, while the vinyl-coated steel wire construction resists corrosion. Setup takes seconds, making it perfect for newcomers learning the ropes. Many Pacific Northwest crabbers started with this exact model.
Best Collapsible: SMI/Beau Mac Folding Trap
SMI and Beau Mac collaborated to create the ultimate collapsible crab trap. Rubber-wrapped components prevent rust while maintaining durability. The clever folding mechanism allows storage in tight boat compartments.
These traps excel in protected waters like Puget Sound where portability matters more than extreme weight. The large top opening simplifies sorting keepers from throwbacks without dumping the entire catch.
Best 15 Dungeness Crab Traps
Heavy-Duty Round Pots (For Ocean/Strong Currents)
1. Promar TR-530C2 Heavy Duty Round Pot
This commercial-grade trap earns top honors through proven performance. The 20-pound weight keeps it anchored in 3-knot currents. PVC-coated steel mesh resists crab claws that would shred lesser materials.
Key features include a massive top door for easy access and rubber-wrapped bottom bars preventing damage on rocky surfaces. The $100+ price tag pays for itself within a dozen crabs at current market prices.
Specifications:
- Weight: 20 pounds
- Diameter: 30 inches
- Height: 10 inches
- Escape rings: Two 4.5-inch
- Warranty: 2 years
2. SMI Heavy Duty Crab Trap
SMI revolutionized trap design with stainless steel components and rubber-coated rebar weighting. Three elevated entrance ramps guide crabs inside while preventing escape. The complete kit includes lead rope, buoy, bait box, gauge, and harness.
Professional crabbers appreciate the oversized sorting door. Instead of dumping catches onto deck, you reach through to grab keepers. This feature alone saves time and prevents losing crabs overboard.
3. Commercial-Grade Round Pots
Several manufacturers produce commercial-style round pots ranging from $150-250. These 25-30 pound behemoths target serious crabbers running multiple traps. Stainless steel frames with galvanized mesh provide decades of service.
Look for models with hinged lids covering 50% or more of the top. Smaller access doors make sorting difficult when you've hit the crab jackpot. Pacific Marine Foundation recommends minimum 28-inch diameters for commercial operations.
Best Collapsible Crab Traps
4. Danielson Pacific FTC Deluxe
Beyond the standard model, Danielson offers a deluxe version with upgraded components. Heavier gauge wire increases lifespan while maintaining the convenient folding design. Pre-attached escape rings save setup time.
The square shape stacks efficiently in truck beds or boat storage. Many crabbers run 5-10 of these traps simultaneously, taking advantage of the compact storage. Color-coded models help identify your gear in crowded crabbing spots.
5. SMI/Beau Mac Collapsible Models
These collaboration traps blend SMI's rubber coating technology with Beau Mac's folding expertise. Available in multiple sizes from 24-32 inches, they adapt to various boat capacities. The proprietary hinge system outlasts competitors.
Puget Sound regulars swear by these traps for protected water crabbing. While lighter than round pots at 10-15 pounds, optional weight clips accommodate challenging conditions. Understanding crab behavior patterns helps maximize these traps' effectiveness.
6. Promar TR-55 Folding Trap
Promar's collapsible offering targets recreational crabbers prioritizing convenience. The 24-inch square design fits standard coolers when folded. Vinyl-coated mesh resists barnacle buildup common in saltwater environments.
Setup requires no tools - simply unfold and secure corners with included clips. The central bait box accepts various bait types while keeping them secure. At under $50, it's an excellent entry point for casual crabbers.
Budget-Friendly Dungeness Crab Catchers
7. Offshore Angler Square Trap
Bass Pro's house brand delivers surprising quality at rock-bottom prices. The 10.5-inch cube design works for short soaks while bank fishing. Heavy gauge steel wire construction handles aggressive crabs.
This trap shines for pier crabbing where you'll check frequently. The simple design means fewer parts to break or maintain. Pair several together for better coverage at minimal investment.
8. Promar NE-111 Cotton Net
Sometimes simple works best. This traditional ring net costs under $20 while effectively catching crabs. The 18-inch top ring and 10-inch bottom create a cone shape crabs can't escape when lifted quickly.
Cotton mesh eventually biodegrades if lost, reducing environmental impact. Kids love the hands-on experience of ring netting. It's perfect for introducing youngsters to crabbing from docks or piers.
9. Entry-Level Pot Options
Generic square traps flood sporting goods stores each season. While build quality varies, $30-40 models work adequately for occasional use. Look for vinyl coating and proper escape ring placement.
These budget options let you test crabbing interest before major investments. Many experienced crabbers keep a few as backups or loaners for friends. Just don't expect multi-season durability from bottom-tier products.
Specialty Traps and Crab Traps for Sale
10. Maryland Blue Crab Pot (Dual-Purpose)
This versatile trap catches both blue and Dungeness crabs effectively. The modified entrance funnels accommodate different crab sizes. Eco-friendly turtle excluders prevent accidental captures.
While marketed for blue crabs, West Coast crabbers discovered it excels for Dungeness in calmer waters. The unique pyramid shape increases internal volume without expanding footprint. Multiple tie-down points secure bait anywhere inside.
11. Drasry Portable Fishing Bait Trap
This innovative collapsible design targets multi-species fishing. Fine mesh sides retain smaller baits while allowing scent dispersal. The 23.6 x 11.8-inch size handles everything from crawfish to Dungeness.
Ultralight construction appeals to kayak crabbers with limited storage. The black color blends with bottom structure, potentially increasing catch rates. Spring-loaded doors snap shut when lifted.
12. Bauer Crab Traps
Bauer produces semi-custom traps popular with serious recreational crabbers. Their signature feature involves angled entrance tunnels preventing crab pile-ups during hot bites. Prices run $70-100 depending on options.
These traps incorporate feedback from decades of customer input. Small details like rounded corners reduce hang-ups on rocky bottoms. The company's Pacific Northwest roots show in the Dungeness-specific design elements.
13. Kufa Sports Round Folding Trap
Kufa bridges the gap between round and collapsible designs. Their patented folding mechanism maintains the efficient round shape while enabling flat storage. Reinforced stress points handle repeated folding.
The 30-inch diameter matches commercial pots' capacity. Unique among folding traps, it includes bottom weights eliminating additional sinkers. Asian-inspired engineering provides innovative solutions to common problems.
14. Willapa Marine Stainless Traps
Premium stainless steel construction justifies the $200+ investment for frequent crabbers. Zero rust means decades of reliable service. The mirror finish actually attracts curious crabs according to some users.
These traps represent the pinnacle of recreational crabbing gear. Every component from hinges to mesh uses marine-grade stainless. While overkill for occasional use, serious crabbers appreciate the quality.
15. Hurricane Crab Trap by Ranger
Ranger's heavy-duty offering survives extreme conditions as the name suggests. Reinforced corners and triple-welded joints handle commercial use. The oversized 32-inch frame maximizes legal dimensions.
Unique features include glow-in-the-dark entrance markers and integrated rope attachment points. The hefty 25-pound weight stays put in washing machine currents. Professional guides often choose these for reliability.
What Really Works Dungeness Crab Bait Guide?
Best Crab Bait for Dungeness: Commercial Secrets
Commercial crabbers almost exclusively use clams, revealing the ultimate Dungeness crab foods preference. Clams naturally occur in crab habitats, making them irresistible. Fresh razor clam trimmings outperform any store-bought bait.
Chicken ranks second among successful bait choices, but only fatty cuts work well. Necks, thighs, and legs release oils that disperse farther than lean breast meat. The bottom-dwelling nature of crabs means scent trails matter more than visual appeal.
Fish carcasses provide another excellent option, especially oily species like salmon, tuna, or herring. Save frames after filleting rather than discarding this free bait. Fresh beats frozen, contradicting the common myth about crabs preferring rotten bait.
Dungeness Crab Bait Recipe: 3 Proven Formulas
Recipe 1: The Commercial Blend
- 2 pounds fresh clams (crushed)
- 1 pound herring chunks
- 1/4 cup rock salt
- Mix thoroughly and stuff in bait bags
Recipe 2: The Chicken Special
- 3 pounds chicken thighs
- 1 can tuna (oil included)
- Pro-Cure crab attractant coating
- Freeze overnight before use
Recipe 3: The Scavenger Mix
- Fish carcasses from cleaning station
- Crushed mussels or barnacles
- Leftover bait from previous trips
- Layer in mesh bags
Using Pro-Cure Attractant Effectively
Pro-Cure's crab and shrimp attractant contains concentrated fish oils, amino acids, and pheromones. However, it requires absorbent material for proper dispersal. Soak old towel strips in attractant and zip-tie inside traps.
This product transforms mediocre baits into crab magnets. Apply to chicken or lean fish for enhanced results. The key involves using it as enhancement rather than standalone bait - crabs need actual food to remain in traps.
Where to Drop Your Traps: Dungeness Crab Foods & Habitat
Finding Eelgrass Beds and Natural Habitats
Eelgrass beds serve as Dungeness crab nurseries and feeding grounds. These underwater meadows harbor the small crustaceans and mollusks crabs eat. Look for eelgrass fragments floating on the surface indicating beds below.
Quality fish finders display bottom composition, highlighting the transition zones crabs prefer. Target edges where eelgrass meets sand or mud rather than dense grass centers. Crabs patrol these boundaries hunting for exposed prey.
Rocky structures adjacent to eelgrass create ideal habitat combinations. Crabs shelter in rocks during molting then venture into grass for feeding. Understanding these patterns dramatically improves catch rates over random placement.
Best Depths and Tides for Dungeness Crabbing
Most recreational crabbing occurs in 30-80 feet of water. Shallower depths work during winter months when crabs move inshore. Summer crabbing often requires 60+ feet as crabs seek cooler temperatures.
Slack tide produces the best catches as crabs actively feed during calm currents. The hour before and after slack provides prime pulling times. Strong currents push crabs into sheltered areas, concentrating them in predictable locations.
Incoming tides generally outperform outgoing, especially near river mouths. Fresh water floating over salt creates haloclines that concentrate bait scents. Position traps where these water masses meet for maximum effectiveness.
Reading Water Conditions
Clear water indicates recent calm conditions ideal for crabbing. Murky water following storms stirs bottom sediments, reducing crab activity. Wait 24-48 hours after major weather for conditions to improve.
Water temperature affects crab metabolism and movement. The sweet spot ranges from 46-54°F when crabs feed aggressively. Colder water slows activity while warmer temperatures drive crabs deeper.
Current speed determines trap style selection. Round pots handle 2+ knot currents while collapsible traps work best under 1 knot. Match your gear to conditions rather than forcing inappropriate equipment.
Pro Setup Guide: Rigging Your Trap for Success
Essential Gear Checklist
Must-Have Items:
- Crab trap(s) with legal escape rings
- 100+ feet of leaded line per trap
- Highly visible buoys (name/phone required)
- Bait and bait containers
- Crab gauge for measuring
- Valid shellfish license
- Gloves for handling
Recommended Extras:
- Trap puller or davit
- Backup bait
- Zip ties for repairs
- Extra buoys
- Trap tags (required in some areas)
- Cooler with ice
- First aid kit
Weight Requirements by Location
Ocean crabbing demands serious weight to combat currents and surge. Add 5-10 pounds to lightweight traps using lead weights or coated rebar. Position weights on the bottom preventing tipping.
Protected bays require minimal additional weight. Most collapsible traps work as-is in calm conditions. However, even light currents can slowly drag under-weighted traps into navigation channels or onto beaches.
River mouths present unique challenges with changing currents. Use enough weight to stay put during full tidal exchanges. Consider pyramid-shaped weights that dig into sand rather than rolling.
Legal Requirements and Escape Rings
Every state mandates escape rings allowing undersized crabs to exit. Typical requirements include two 4.5-inch rings positioned on opposite sides. Pre-made traps should include compliant rings, but always verify.
Cotton cord rot-away devices prevent ghost fishing if traps are lost. Some areas require these biodegradable closures on trap doors. Replace cords each season as sun exposure weakens them prematurely.
Buoy marking regulations vary by state but generally require owner name and phone number. Use permanent markers or engraved tags rather than stickers that peel off. Unique buoy colors help identify your gear among crowds.
Trap Selection Guide by Location
Ocean vs. Bay Crabbing
Ocean environments demand robust gear surviving pounding surf and strong currents. Heavy round pots excel here, staying put while lighter traps tumble away. The investment in quality equipment pays off through durability and consistent catches.
Bay crabbing offers gentler conditions suitable for various trap styles. Collapsible models shine in protected waters where portability matters more than ultimate strength. Mix trap types to cover different depths and structures.
Dock and Pier Options
Fixed structures like piers simplify crabbing logistics but present unique challenges. Ring nets and small box traps work best for frequent checking. Avoid large pots that require excessive effort hauling up pilings.
Pier crabbing often means competing with numerous other crabbers. Compact traps reduce tangles while colorful buoys identify your gear. Consider crabbing at less popular times for better success.
Small Boat Considerations
Limited deck space on small boats favors collapsible trap designs. Stack multiple folded traps where one round pot would fit. Quick setup and breakdown maximize fishing time versus gear handling.
Storage becomes critical on overnight trips. Collapsible traps tuck into lockers while round pots consume valuable deck space. Balance trap capacity against boat limitations for optimal efficiency.
Common Mistakes That Cost You Crabs
Using hot dogs or other processed meats rarely produces good catches. These unnatural baits lack the oils and scents that attract crabs. Stick with proven options like clams, chicken, or fish for consistent results.
Placing traps randomly wastes time and fuel. Study charts identifying productive bottom types before deploying gear. One properly placed trap outfishes five dropped haphazardly.
Pulling traps too frequently disturbs the area and reduces catches. Allow minimum 2-hour soaks, preferably longer. Overnight soaks often produce the best results as crabs feed more actively in darkness.
Poor knot tying leads to lost traps and ghost fishing impacts. Master the bowline and clove hitch for secure connections. Double-check all attachments before deploying expensive gear into the depths.
Money-Saving Tips for Dungeness Crabbers
DIY Bait Collection (Clam Digging)
Digging your own clams provides free, premium bait while enjoying another outdoor activity. Target invasive purple varnish clams with generous 72-per-person limits in Oregon. One morning's dig supplies multiple crabbing trips.
Time clam digging for low tides then crab the following high tide. This natural rhythm maximizes both activities. Save clam shells and guts when cleaning for eating - crabs eagerly devour these scraps.
Where to Find Discounted Traps?
End-of-season sales offer 30-50% discounts on crabbing gear. October through November sees retailers clearing inventory. Buy next year's equipment at significant savings.
Online classifieds reveal barely-used traps from people abandoning the hobby. Inspect for damage but expect 50-75% savings over retail. Spring cleaning seasons produce the best selection as garages get organized.
Commercial crabbers occasionally sell older but functional traps cheaply. These proven producers just need minor repairs or rust removal. One commercial trap often outlasts three recreational models.
Trap Maintenance for Longevity
Rinse traps thoroughly with fresh water after each use. Salt crystallization accelerates corrosion even on coated surfaces. Pay special attention to hinges and moving parts.
Store traps in shaded areas preventing UV degradation of synthetic materials. Direct sunlight weakens mesh and brittles plastic components. A simple tarp extends equipment life significantly.
Annual maintenance includes checking escape rings, replacing worn parts, and touching up coating damage. Invest 30 minutes per trap maintaining gear rather than replacing it prematurely.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size trap is best for Dungeness crab?
Commercial-style round traps measuring 30-32 inches diameter provide optimal capacity for Dungeness crab. However, 24-inch square collapsible traps work excellently for recreational crabbing with easier handling and storage.
How long should I soak my Dungeness crab trap?
Minimum 2-hour soaks allow crabs time to find and enter traps. Overnight 12-24 hour soaks generally produce the best catches. During peak season with abundant crabs, 4-6 hour soaks may suffice.
Can I use blue crab traps for Dungeness?
Blue crab traps work for Dungeness but aren't ideal. Dungeness crabs grow larger, requiring bigger entrances and stronger construction. Purpose-built Dungeness traps with 4.5-inch escape rings ensure legal compliance and better catches.
What's the difference between round and square traps?
Round traps shed current better and resist tipping in rough conditions. Square traps stack efficiently and often feature collapsible designs. Round traps typically cost more but last longer in challenging environments.
How many traps do I need for a good catch?
Most recreational crabbers run 2-5 traps effectively. This number allows reasonable soak times while rotating pulls. State regulations limit trap numbers - Washington allows 2 per person while Oregon permits 3.
Conclusion
Selecting from the best crab traps for Dungeness doesn't require gambling on unknown products. The Promar TR-530C2, SMI Heavy Duty, and Danielson Pacific FTC consistently deliver results whether you're battling ocean swells or exploring calm bays.
Remember that quality traps paired with proper bait and placement catch more crabs than quantity alone. A single well-placed trap with fresh clams outfishes five poorly baited ones every time.
At current market prices exceeding $25 per pound, your trap investment returns quickly. Choose based on your crabbing location and storage capacity, maintain equipment properly, and enjoy seasons of sustainable harvests. The dinner table rewards await those who invest wisely in proven Dungeness crab catchers.
