Building a trotline is within the ability of the weekend
boater, and there are no set rules to its design except for
legal restrictions on length.
The basic recreational crabbing trotline is several
hundred feet long, with anchors and buoys on either end.
Baits are spaced at intervals along the line and the crabber
maneuvers the boat along the line, netting crabs that hang
on to the baits.
The main anchor holds the trotline in position while the
other end is positioned down current and anchored by a
lighter weight which allows the rig some movement. The
system should hold the trotline in position, but allow it
stay aligned with the flow of water. A good starting point
is 15 lbs for the main anchor and 5 lbs for the down current
end. Anchors can be first rate store bought boat anchors,
window sash weights, or anything with enough weight. The
crabs don't seem to care so the material is a matter of
preference.
A simple anchor-float system might utilize a large 3 way
swivel, a buoy (jug) with adjustable line, 5-10 feet of line
to the anchor and some provision to connect the trotline.
The line itself can vary in diameter or length. Many
recreational crabbers use #5 (5/32") nylon line although
larger line works well too. Smaller lines are prone to
tangling. One time saving trick is to cut small lengths of
automotive fuel line or clear plastic hose, then slide a
loop of line thru the hose. The bait is then placed in the
loop and the line is pulled tight. This holds the bait on
the line but eliminates knots and allows for fast bait
changes.
Many baits are used and any bait that attracts crabs and
is durable is fine. Trotliners often favor baits such as
brined eel, bull lips, chicken parts, pork or any tough
fish. The entire line can be pre-baited and stored in a
brine solution or dropped in a bait freezer, or rigged the
night before and kept on ice. It is important to bring extra
bait and replace baits as needed during the trip.
Fishing a trotline is fairly simple if the correct
environment is available. A good trotline area will be
shallow with a muddy bottom and moderate current. Some wind
will actually help, and murky water allows crabbers to work
longer. Most trotline crabbers prefer to get on the water
early and finish before mid-day. Crabs are more active in
the morning and less likely to spook when the trotline is
moved.
Teamwork is important while crabbing with a trotline. One
person steers the boat, while another retrieves the line and
dips the crabs. If 3 people are present, the job gets easier
as there is always a bait to change, crabs to cull or a buoy
to recover.
Catching crabs with a trotline begins at
sunup.
The roller guides the line along the boat.
Crabs are captured off the line using a
wire or mesh crab net.
The line exits over a second roller at the
boat's stern.
A Chesapeake Bay male or "Jimmy" blue
crab.
Seafood Recipes
Fishing Reports
Fishing Techniques
GPS Coordinates