Handline crabbing is simple, inexpensive and provides all-day-fun. If you are crabbing from some place on shore, it is best if the tide is rising. All you need is a dip net, a length of string long enough to reach the bottom, and some type of bait (eel, chicken necks, or fish work well). You may want to put a weight on the bait if it is not heavy enough to sink to the bottom. Tie several lines to the pier or boat and give the crabs a chance to find the bait.

Check each line carefully by picking it up with your thumb and forefinger; this gives you a more delicate feel. You will know if the crab is feeding because the pulling and clawing action will be transmitted up the line to your fingers. Ease the crab slowly upward; hand over hand, inch by inch. The suspense at this point is a test of your patience! Usually, the crab is so busy eating that he is unaware he is being pulled from the bottom.

Keep the line tight. When you can see the crab near the surface, get your net ready with one hand and hold the line with the other. Or you can work as a team, with a friend using the net. Maneuver the crab as close as possible, then quickly scoop down, alongside, under the crab, and up with a wrist-turning motion. Some crabbers prefer to ease the net into the water, somewhat away from the crab, then move in and under it. Be careful how you handle the crab when you remove it from the net and be sure you have the proper container to keep it alive.