getting started crabbing

[cadjaw]

just sitting here by the woodstove and thinking of fishing Tangier SoundsASAP. I sure have developed a taste for the Crabs of the bay. Could anyone tell me how to combine a nice fishing trip for croakers and all the other fish available with perhaps catching a bushell or so of crabs. I normally fish between rumbley and crisfield...buoys 8 to 12 AT least. i catch a fair amount of croaker and some strippers but would like to know how i can combine this fishing with some crabbing....any recommedations on types of traps to buy and where to place them and how often to check them? i see all the pots of the professionals, would it be okay to place some inexpensive traps there.....i am thinking of only getting enought crabs to have a delightful feast of crabs for a family. any info or links would be greatly appreciated....tight lines to all and a VERY HAPPY CHRISTMAS and a Better NEw Year!

Thanks
chris:clapping2:

[Dashaway]

ummm, that's serious crabbing country, besides the crabbing board here, Crisfield is home to a crabber or two.

[jeffleft]

You can check this out a lot of good info & good people to help you out Blue Crab Forum - Index (http://www.bluecrab.info/forum/index.php)

[BowMovements]

Here's my humble opinion. When you go out decide to crab or fish. 1. If you set your traps and go fishing your baits will be gone when you come back. 2. Don't set with the commercial potters. Just not smart! You are liable to be mistaken for a pot poacher or lose traps or have some not so friendly run-ins etc... 3. Crabbing and crabbing gear will consume most of your boat space and day. If you try to do both; crabbing then fishing, you will suffer some serious dead loss. Once again this is JMHO

[kyekstat]

If you do both;just anchor and have about four(4) crab traps over.You'll catch enough crabs and fish for the Family.Also, try and be on a oyster bar; it will improve your chances.