Check local laws, seasons, size limits, and license requirements
Choose a legal crabbing location
Gather gear: crab trap, bait, rope, gloves, bucket, measuring gauge
Secure bait in the trap
Lower the trap into the water
Mark the trap location
Wait for the recommended soak time
Pull up the trap slowly and steadily
Remove crabs carefully
Measure each crab and keep only legal ones
Return undersized, female, or prohibited crabs as required by law
Store legal crabs in a cool, damp container
Clean gear and dispose of waste properly