How to Hook Fiddler Crabs

Fiddler crabs are small species of crabs that fishermen often use when targeting saltwater fish such as black and red drum, pompano and sheepshead. While fiddler crabs, which have four legs and measure a couple of inches in length, do not make up a huge part of the diets of those fish, they will eat them if given the opportunity. Many anglers find fiddler crabs during periods of low tide, though they also can be purchased in bait shops.

Instructions

    • 1

      Attach to the end of the fishing line a hook ranging in size from #4 to 1/0. One of the best knot choices is the Palomar knot.

    • 2

      Cut the large claw off the crab, if it is a male. Males have one large claw, while females do not.

    • 3

      Hold the hook in your dominant hand. Hold the fiddler crab so its head faces the palm of your other hand and so its rear side is exposed.

    • 4

      Push the point of the hook into crab in the area between its shell and its left rear leg. Push the hook point up into the shell and bring it out so it protrudes from the shell midway between the crab's rear legs.