10 Best Crab Bait For Dungeness (2024 Update)

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If you're looking to catch Dungeness crabs, you'll need to make sure you have the right bait. These crabs are known for their sweet, delicate flavor and are particularly popular in California, Oregon, and Washington. However, choosing the right bait can be a bit of a challenge, especially if you're new to crabbing.

Here are five key points to keep in mind when looking for crab bait for Dungeness:

1. Freshness: Dungeness crabs are particularly sensitive to the scent of their bait, so it's important to choose something that is fresh and potent. Look for bait that is as fresh as possible and avoid any that looks or smells off.

2. Scent: Dungeness crabs are attracted to strong, pungent scents, so it's important to choose bait that has a strong odor. Good options include squid, salmon heads, and chicken.

3. Texture: Dungeness crabs prefer bait that has a bit of texture to it, so it's important to choose something that is a bit more substantial than a plain piece of fish. Try using crab or shrimp heads as bait.

4. Availability: Some types of bait can be difficult to find, depending on where you live. Make sure to choose something that is readily available in your area.

5. Cost: Finally, consider the cost of the bait. Some types of bait can be quite expensive, so it's important to choose something that fits within your budget.

In summary, when looking for crab bait for Dungeness, make sure to prioritize freshness, scent, texture, availability, and cost. With the right bait, you'll be well on your way to catching these delicious crabs.

10 Best Crab Bait For Dungeness

1. 2-Pack Of Kufa Sports Foldable Crab Traps With Accessories (Ct50+caq3)

The 2-Pack of KUFA CT50 Sports Foldable Crab Trap with Red/White Floats, Harness, Bait Bag, Crab Caliper & Lead Core Sinking Line Combo (CT50+CAQ3) is an essential tool for crab enthusiasts. This product includes two collapsible crab traps that are designed to be highly functional, durable and easy to transport.

The trap size is 30" x 10"(H), which provides ample space to catch crabs. The trap is equipped with three durable stainless steel springs made from spring steel, ensuring that the trap remains sturdy and effective. The trap can be folded to flat in 3 seconds with the help of three stainless steel clip locks, which makes it easy to store and transport.

The trap features two single direction entrances with ramps, which are designed to attract crabs while preventing them from escaping. The top open door of the trap is large, which makes it easy to pick up the trapped crabs.

The Crab Trap accessory combo includes a 14" Red/White float, Bait Bag, Harness, 1/4" x 100' lead core sinking line & Crab Caliper, which is everything one needs to catch crabs. The Red/White float helps to mark the location of the trap in the water, making it easy to locate. The Bait Bag is used to keep the bait secure inside the trap, while the Harness helps to lift the trap out of the water. The 1/4" x 100' lead core sinking line is strong enough to withstand the weight of the trap and the crabs, while the Crab Caliper is used to measure the size of the crabs.

In conclusion, the 2-Pack of KUFA CT50 Sports Foldable Crab Trap with Red/White Floats, Harness, Bait Bag, Crab Caliper & Lead Core Sinking Line Combo (CT50+CAQ3) is a highly functional and durable product that is designed to make crabbing easy and enjoyable. With its collapsible design and included accessories, this product is perfect for anyone who loves to catch crabs.

2. 2-Pack Kufa Vinyl Coated Crab Traps With Accessory Kit (100' Non-Lead Sinking Line, Caliper, Harness, Bait Bag & 11" Float) (S60+cas1) X2

The 2-Pack of KUFA Vinyl Coated Crab Trap & Accessory kit (S60+CAS1) is a must-have for any crabbing enthusiast. This kit comes with two vinyl-coated square crab traps measuring 24"x24"x12"H, making them perfect for catching different sizes of crabs. The traps are coated with vinyl to prevent rust and corrosion, ensuring they last for years.

The kit also includes a 1/4"x100' Non-Lead Sinking line that is perfect for use in areas where lead is prohibited. The sinking line makes it easy to lower the trap to the desired depth, and the 5"x11" Red/White Float ensures that the trap is visible, making it easy to locate.

A Crab Measure is also included in the kit, which can be used in WA, AK, OR & Canada. The measure ensures that the crabs caught are of legal size and can be kept, while the non-lead sinking line helps to keep the environment safe.

The KUFA Vinyl Coated Crab Trap & Accessory kit also features a 4 Point Heavy Duty Harness designed to keep the trap stable when pulling it out of the water. The harness is strong and durable, ensuring that the trap can be pulled out without any damage.

To attract crabs, the kit comes with a Bait Bag with rubber lock easy to open and close. The bait bag is designed to hold bait securely while allowing the scent to attract crabs.

In conclusion, the 2-Pack of KUFA Vinyl Coated Crab Trap & Accessory kit (S60+CAS1) is an excellent investment for anyone looking to catch crabs. The kit comes with everything needed to start crabbing, including two vinyl-coated traps, a non-lead sinking line, a crab measure, a heavy-duty harness, and a bait bag. With this kit, crabbing is made easy and enjoyable, ensuring that you catch the crabs you need.

3. Foldable Crab Trap Kit With Casting Rope, Bait Box, Measuring Tool, And Zip Ties.

The SENSORY4U Folding Castable Crab Trap is an all-in-one kit that provides everything you need to start crabbing right away. This kit includes a castable folding crab net, rope, mesh bait box, crab gauge measure tool, and 10 zip ties. With this kit, you can easily catch crabs and other sea creatures in a fun and easy way.

One of the best things about this crab net kit is that it comes with all the equipment you need. You won't have to worry about buying anything else separately, and you can start using it right away. The kit includes a castable folding crab net that is easy to use and can be folded down for easy storage. The net is made of high-quality materials that are durable and will last you for a long time.

The rope that comes with this kit is 100 feet long, which gives you plenty of length to cast your net out and catch crabs. The rope is also made of high-quality materials that are strong and durable. With this rope, you can easily cast your net out and bring in your catch.

The mesh bait box that comes with this kit is also a great addition. It is 7×5.5 inches in size and is perfect for holding bait to attract crabs. This bait box is made of high-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting.

The crab gauge measure tool that comes with this kit is another great addition. It is 7 inches long and can be used to measure the size of Red Rock Crabs and Dungeness Crab. This tool is also great for measuring clams, shrimp, and lobster. It is the perfect tool for crabbing in Oregon, Washington, and California.

Finally, this kit includes 10 zip ties that can be used to attach the bait box to the net or to secure the net to a pole or other object. These zip ties are made of high-quality materials and are strong and durable.

Overall, the SENSORY4U Folding Castable Crab Trap is an excellent kit that provides everything you need to start crabbing right away. With its high-quality materials, easy-to-use design, and convenient size, this kit is perfect for anyone who loves to catch crabs and other sea creatures.

4. 24" Sf Double Ring Crab Trap With 50' Rope, Bait Bag, Bait Clip, And Crab Gauge Measure Kit For Dungeness, Rock, And Blue Crab.

The SF Double Ring Crab Trap is an essential tool for any crabbing enthusiast. This package includes a 24-inch wire upper ring, a 20-inch wire bottom ring, and a 15-inch deep trap, making it suitable for catching Dungeness, Blue, Rock, and Lobster crabs. In addition to the trap, this package also includes a bait bag, a bait clip, a crab gauge measure, and a 50-foot rope with a float.

The crab trap is made of hot galvanizing-coated steel, which prevents corrosion and adds years of uninterrupted service. The polyethylene netting is highly durable, ensuring that the trap can withstand the harsh conditions of saltwater environments. The orange trap harness and float make the trap highly visible in poor water conditions, helping you confirm where the mesh crab trap is located.

The bait bag is designed to be easy to open, making it simple to replace or add baits to the trap. The bag keeps your crab bait secure and clean, ensuring that it is easy to put on your fishing crab net. This feature is particularly useful when you are trying to catch elusive crabs that are not attracted to certain types of bait.

The double ring crab net is suitable for use from a dock, pier, jetty, boat, or kayak. It is designed to be easy to set up and use, making it an ideal tool for both novice and experienced crabbers. The trap is also lightweight and portable, making it easy to transport to your favorite crabbing spot.

Overall, the SF Double Ring Crab Trap is a well-constructed, durable, and efficient tool for catching a variety of crab species. Whether you are a seasoned crabber or just starting, this trap is an essential tool for a successful crabbing trip.

5. Airfly Foldable Castable Crab Trap With Bait Clip – Durable And Convenient Rectangle Design

The AirFly Foldable Castable Crab Trap with Bait Clip is a versatile and durable crab trap designed to catch a variety of crabs, including Dungeness, blue, and rock crabs. It is perfect for crabbing at the beach, pier, dock, or even from a boat.

One of the standout features of this crab trap is its durable materials. The collapsible frame is made of 304 stainless steel, which ensures its durability and resistance to corrosion. The trap is also made of high-quality poly netting, which is strong and able to withstand the force of crabs trying to escape.

The AirFly Foldable Castable Crab Trap is also incredibly easy to use. Its castable design means that it can be cast with a rope or fishing rod, making it simple to use for anyone, regardless of their experience level. The trap's open dimensions measure a width of 19 inches, a length of 12 inches, and a height of 1 inch, making it easy to store and transport.

Another great feature of this trap is its bait clip, which makes it easy to attract crabs. Simply attach your bait to the clip, and the trap will do the rest. The trap's rectangle design also ensures that crabs are unable to escape once caught.

In summary, the AirFly Foldable Castable Crab Trap with Bait Clip is a durable, versatile, and easy-to-use crab trap that is perfect for catching a variety of crabs. Its castable design and compact size make it easy to use and transport, while its durable materials and bait clip ensure that crabs are caught and unable to escape. Whether you're a seasoned crabber or just starting out, the AirFly Foldable Castable Crab Trap is an excellent choice for all your crabbing needs.

6. High-Quality Protoco Crab Ring With Net, Bait Box, And 28"x17" Size For Saltwater Or Freshwater Crab Fishing.

The Protoco Crab Ring is a high-quality crabbing trap suitable for both saltwater and freshwater fishing. This crabbing ring measures 28”x17” and comes equipped with a net, ring, and bait box. The trap is made using only premium materials, ensuring durability and long-lasting use.

The steel frame of the crab ring is coated with polyethylene, a tough and resilient material that protects it from corrosion caused by saltwater. The wire mesh at the bottom of the trap is made from stainless steel, ensuring durability and high-quality fishing for years to come.

One of the standout features of the Protoco Crab Ring is the included bait box. The polyethylene-coated bait box is designed to keep your bait fresh and ready for luring in nibbling crabs to be caught once you lift the ring to the surface.

The mesh on the sides of the trap is coated with tar, which prevents rotting and ensures the trap remains functional over time. This coating prevents any unforeseen holes or ruptures, allowing you to pull in today's catch with ease.

Protoco is a well-known manufacturer of marine products, including crab pots, shrimp traps, and crawfish traps. The company also produces a range of protective covers, plastic injection molded products, fluidized powder-coated products, coatings, and custom packaging.

In summary, the Protoco Crab Ring is a high-quality crabbing trap suitable for both saltwater and freshwater fishing. Its durable construction, tough and resilient coating, and included bait box make it an excellent choice for any crab fishing enthusiast.

7. Kufa 2-Pack Vinyl Coated Crab Trap Kit With Accessories And 100' Rope, Including Caliper, Harness, Bait Bag, Red/white Float, And Non-Lead Sinking Line (6"x14" Float)

The 2-Pack of KUFA Vinyl Coated Crab Trap & Accessory kit is an excellent option for those looking to catch crabs with ease. This product comes with a variety of useful accessories that make crabbing an enjoyable and successful experience.

The crab trap itself measures 24"x24"x12"H and is covered in a durable vinyl coating. It features four one-way doors that allow crabs to enter but prevent them from leaving. This design ensures that once the crabs are in the trap, they are trapped securely until the user retrieves them.

The kit also comes with a 1/4" x 100' Non-Lead Sinking Rope, which is perfect for crabbing. This rope is strong and durable, allowing users to pull up their traps with ease. The non-lead design is also environmentally friendly, ensuring that users can enjoy crabbing without harming the environment.

Additionally, the kit includes a crab caliper that is suitable for use in Washington, Oregon, and Alaska. This tool is used to measure the size of the crabs caught, ensuring that users are only keeping legal-sized crabs.

The bait bag that comes with the kit is also a useful tool. It is designed with a rubber lock that makes it easy to open and close, allowing users to add bait to their traps quickly and efficiently.

The 6"x14" Red/White Float that comes with the kit is another useful accessory. This durable float is designed to last, and its bright colors make it easy to spot in the water. The float comes with a four-arm harness that helps keep the crab trap secure and in place.

Overall, the 2-Pack of KUFA Vinyl Coated Crab Trap & Accessory kit is an excellent option for anyone looking to catch crabs. With its high-quality materials and useful accessories, this kit makes crabbing easy and enjoyable.

8. Airfly Castable Crab Traps For Dungeness, Rock And Blue Crab (3 Bundle)

The AirFly Castable Crab Traps for Dungeness, Rock and Blue Crab (3 Bundle) is a complete set that comes with everything you need for crabbing. This bundle includes 3 snares, a gauge, a glove, and reserve loops. The snares are designed for Dungeness, Blue crab, Red crab, and Rock crab, making it versatile and suitable for different crab species.

The AirFly Castable Crab Traps are perfect for using with a fishing rod. The self-opening loops shoot straight into the air, even while underwater, making it easy to catch crabs. The snares are also easy to use and require minimal effort, making them perfect for beach, pier or dock crabbing.

The bait cage measures 4”x2”x1" and is perfect for holding your bait. The blue 6-Loop, 0.065 in dia. is designed to prevent crabs from escaping. The cage is also durable and built to withstand harsh marine environments.

The AirFly Castable Crab Traps come with a gauge to ensure that the crabs you catch are of legal size. The gauge is easy to use and is an essential tool for any crabbing enthusiast. The glove is also included to protect your hands from the sharp claws of the crabs.

The reserve loops are also included in the bundle. These loops are great to have on hand in case you need to replace any of the loops on your snares. The loops are also easy to install and require no special tools.

Overall, the AirFly Castable Crab Traps for Dungeness, Rock and Blue Crab (3 Bundle) is an excellent choice for anyone who loves crabbing. The bundle includes everything you need to start catching crabs, and the snares are designed to be versatile and easy to use. The bait cage is also durable and built to withstand harsh marine environments. The gauge and glove are essential tools that will help you catch crabs legally and safely.

9. Pro-Cure Crab & Shrimp Attractant, 16 Ounce, Red

Pro-Cure Crab & Shrimp Attractant is a highly effective fishing bait that has been specially designed to attract fish to your line. This attractant is made from 100% real bait and is enhanced with UV flash, making it even more irresistible to fish.

The attractant is loaded with amino acids that trigger fish to feed, making it an ideal choice for anglers who want to increase their chances of catching fish. The amino acids in the attractant work by mimicking the natural scent of baitfish, which is known to attract a wide variety of species.

To use Pro-Cure Crab & Shrimp Attractant, simply shake the bottle well and marinate your bait overnight. This will allow the attractant to soak into your bait, making it even more potent and effective. The attractant can be used with a wide variety of baits, including live bait, cut bait, and artificial lures.

One of the key benefits of Pro-Cure Crab & Shrimp Attractant is its UV flash enhancement. This feature makes the attractant even more effective in low-light conditions, as the UV flash will help to draw fish to your bait. The UV flash is also visible to fish from a greater distance, making it an ideal choice for anglers who want to target fish that are further away.

In addition to its effectiveness, Pro-Cure Crab & Shrimp Attractant is also very easy to use. The attractant comes in a 16-ounce bottle, which is enough to last for multiple fishing trips. The bottle is also designed with a convenient spray nozzle, making it easy to apply the attractant to your bait.

Overall, Pro-Cure Crab & Shrimp Attractant is a highly effective fishing bait that is loaded with amino acids, enhanced with UV flash, and made from 100% real bait. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, this attractant is sure to help you catch more fish and make your next fishing trip a success.

10. Pro-Cure Crab & Shrimp Attractant, 1/2 Gallon

Pro-Cure Crab & Shrimp Attractant, 1/2 Gallon, is a highly effective fishing bait that is made from 100 percent real bait. It is designed to attract fish, especially those that feed on crab and shrimp. The attractant is loaded with amino acids that trigger the fish to feed, making it a must-have for any serious angler.

One of the key features of this attractant is its UV Flash technology, which enhances the bait's visibility in the water. This technology makes the bait more attractive to fish, even in low-light conditions. The attractant is also loaded with amino acids, which are essential for fish growth and development. The amino acids in the attractant are specifically designed to trigger the fish to feed, making it an ideal bait for catching a variety of fish species.

To use Pro-Cure Crab & Shrimp Attractant, simply shake the bottle well and marinate your bait overnight. The longer you marinate your bait, the more potent the attractant becomes. The attractant can be used with a variety of baits, including live bait, frozen bait, and artificial bait. The attractant works best when used with fresh bait, but can also be used with frozen bait if necessary.

Pro-Cure Crab & Shrimp Attractant is a great choice for both saltwater and freshwater fishing. It is especially effective when fishing for species that feed on crab and shrimp, such as redfish, snook, and trout. The attractant can also be used to catch other species, such as bass and walleye, by adding it to your favorite bait.

In addition to its effectiveness as a fishing bait, Pro-Cure Crab & Shrimp Attractant is also easy to use. The 1/2 gallon bottle is easy to handle, and the attractant is easy to apply to your bait. The attractant is also long-lasting, which means that you can use it for multiple fishing trips.

Overall, Pro-Cure Crab & Shrimp Attractant, 1/2 Gallon, is a highly effective fishing bait that is perfect for any angler looking to catch more fish. Its UV Flash technology, amino acid content, and ease of use make it a must-have for anyone who takes their fishing seriously. So, if you want to catch more fish and increase your chances of success on your next fishing trip, be sure to give Pro-Cure Crab & Shrimp Attractant a try.

Best Crab Bait For Dungeness FAQs

Can I use chicken or fish as bait for Dungeness crab?

Yes, you can use chicken or fish as bait for Dungeness crab. Both chicken and fish are commonly used as bait for crabbing. Chicken can be used as a cheaper option and is effective in attracting crabs due to its strong scent. Fish, on the other hand, is more expensive but is a popular choice as it's a natural food source for crabs. It's recommended to use fresh bait and to change it regularly to maintain its effectiveness.

It's important to note that each state has its own regulations on what type of bait can be used for crabbing, so it's advisable to check with your local authorities before using chicken or fish as bait. Additionally, crabbers should ensure they are using legal crabs sizes and following all other regulations to protect the sustainability of the crab population.

How do I properly set my trap with Dungeness crab bait to increase my chances of catching them?

To properly set a trap with Dungeness crab bait, there are a few important steps to follow. First, choose a suitable location with a sandy or rocky bottom and a depth of at least 10-20 feet. Next, bait the trap with fresh or frozen fish, chicken, or squid, as well as a few pieces of rotten or stinky bait to attract the crabs. Make sure to secure the bait inside the trap so it doesn't fall out or get stolen by other sea creatures. Finally, lower the trap slowly and carefully into the water, making sure it lands right side up and is securely anchored to the bottom. Check the trap regularly, ideally every 30 minutes to an hour, and be sure to follow local regulations on size limits and catch limits. By following these steps, you can increase your chances of catching Dungeness crabs and enjoying a delicious seafood feast.

How often should I change my Dungeness crab bait when crabbing?

As a human, it is difficult to give an exact answer as to how often you should change your Dungeness crab bait when crabbing. It can depend on a variety of factors such as water temperature, crab activity, and the type of bait you are using. However, there are some general guidelines that can be followed.

Firstly, it is recommended to change your bait every hour or so. This is because fresh bait is more attractive to crabs and will increase your chances of catching them. Additionally, if the bait is starting to smell or look unappetizing, it is time to change it.

Secondly, if you are using raw fish or other fresh bait, it is important to keep it on ice to prevent spoilage. This will help to maintain its freshness and appeal to the crabs.

Lastly, it is always a good idea to keep an eye on your bait throughout the day and adjust accordingly. If you notice that you are not getting any bites, try changing the type of bait or moving to a different location.

Overall, changing your Dungeness crab bait every hour or so and keeping it fresh and on ice will increase your chances of a successful catch.

Is there a specific time of year when certain types of bait work better for Dungeness crab?

Yes, there is a specific time of year when certain types of bait work better for catching Dungeness crab. Typically, from late fall to early spring, when the water is colder, crab tend to be more active and feed more aggressively. During this time, baits that are rich in oils and scents, such as fish carcasses or squid, work best to attract the crab.

However, during the summer months, when the water is warmer, crab tend to be more lethargic and less active. During this time, baits that are more visually appealing, such as chicken or turkey necks, work better to catch the crab's attention. Additionally, during high tide or full moon phases, crab tend to feed more actively, making it a good time to use bait.

Overall, the best bait to use for Dungeness crab can vary depending on the season, water temperature, and tides. It is important to experiment with different baits and observe the crab's behavior to determine what works best in your specific location.

What type of bait should I use for catching Dungeness crabs?

To catch Dungeness crabs, the best bait to use is typically raw chicken or fish heads. Some other popular options include squid, clams, and mussels. It's important to note that fresh bait is always best, as crabs have a keen sense of smell and will be more attracted to fresh, strong-smelling bait.

When setting your crab traps, be sure to place the bait in a mesh bag or container so that it can slowly release its scent over time. This will help to attract more crabs to your trap.

Overall, the key to successful Dungeness crab fishing is to have patience and to experiment with different types of bait until you find what works best in your particular fishing location. By using fresh, strong-smelling bait and setting your traps in the right spots, you can increase your chances of catching these tasty crustaceans.

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