1. Where to Find Stone Crabs

Stone crabs are typically found:

• Near rocky or reef structure

• Along bridge pilings and docks

• In sandy areas adjacent to structure

• In shallow to moderate depths

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2. Setting up your Trap

 

• Tag Your Trap - Every OceanBuilt stone crab trap includes a trap identification tag. Using a permanent marker, clearly write your name, address, and trap registration number on the tag before deploying your trap. For step by step, view out tag setup here.

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• Attach Your Trap Line - Secure your trap line to a solid attachment point on the trap. Make sure:

  • Knots are tight and clean

  • The line is free of frays or weak spots

  • Line length accounts for water depth and tide changes

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• Rig Your Buoy - Attach your buoy to the free end of the trap line and ensure it floats clearly above the surface. Your buoy should:

  • Remain visible in varying conditions

  • Be properly marked if required by regulation

  • Have enough slack to prevent pulling the trap off the bottom during tide changes

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For a step-by-step walkthrough on rigging your buoy correctly, see our Buoy Setup Guide.
 

​3. Baiting your Trap

Stone crabs are scavengers and are attracted to strong scents. Common bait options include:

• Fish carcasses or scraps

• Squid

• Chicken necks or other meat scraps

Place bait securely in the bait well to concentrate scent. All OceanBuilt traps come ready with a ridged, full length, quick flip baitwell.

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4. Check Your License and Trap Limits before placing traps:

• Confirm you have the correct recreational license

• Verify the number of traps allowed per person and per vessel

• Review seasonal dates and area restrictions

Regulations can change, so always check current rules before heading out.

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5. Stone crabs are unique in that only the claws may be harvested. Proper harvesting helps protect the fishery and keeps you compliant.

Size regulations

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Size Regulations - Only claws that meet the minimum legal size may be kept. Measure every claw carefully before harvest, as even small differences can make a claw illegal. 

Read up on how to properly measure stone crab claws here: Stone Crab Measurements

Be sure you have a proper measuring device on your person at all times when actively harvesting to prevent fines.

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Get your universal Florida gauge today: 

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5. Final Check Before Deployment

Before lowering your trap:

• Confirm bait is secured in the bait well

• Double-check knots and buoy attachment

• Make sure your buoy is floating and visible

Taking a few extra minutes at setup helps prevent lost gear, violations, and unnecessary issues on the water.​​​

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