How to Make a Collapsible Crab Trap

Collapsible crab traps collapse flat on the ocean floor and then stretch to form a basket when pulled back up They are also called "hoop nets." Crabs are caught between the sides of the trap and cannot climb out while the trap is being raised. Bait is tied to the bottom of the trap and crabs are attracted to the smell; however, since the trap does not have walls when it is resting on the ocean floor, crabs can steal the bait or finish eating it and walk off of the trap. It is therefore important to check the trap periodically.

Things You'll Need

  • Two metal rings of different sizes
  • Nylon mesh
  • Scissors
  • Bendable wire
  • Nylon rope
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the circumference of both of the rings.

    • 2

      Cut a section out of the nylon mesh so that the length of the top is the circumference of the larger ring and the length of the bottom is the circumference of the smaller ring. The mesh should be about 1 foot high.

    • 3

      Using the wire, tie the shorter side of the mesh onto the smaller ring to form a cylinder. Use the wire like twist-ties, but be sure to press the barbs against the ring so they will not cut your hand. You could use twine instead of wire but it will eventually rot away.

    • 4

      Tie the long end of the mesh to the larger ring.

    • 5

      Cut a circle of mesh and tie it to the bottom of the smaller ring to form a complete basket. When you set the basket down it should collapse.

    • 6

      Tie rope onto three equidistant points around the larger ring and connect them in the center. Tie a longer rope to the center connection so you will be able to pull the trap out of the water. When held by the rope, the trap should form a basket.