Crabbing Season in NJ: Best Spots, Tips & Tricks for a Successful Catch

The crabbing season in NJ is the perfect time to grab a net, toss a trap in the water, and reel in some fun along the Jersey Shore.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or trying it for the first time, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of catching your own blue crabs fresh from the bay.

From late spring through early fall, docks, piers, and marshy shorelines come alive with crabbers eager to fill their buckets. The best part? It’s an activity the whole family can enjoy, whether you’re out on a boat or just dipping a line off the dock.

But knowing the right spots, techniques, and regulations can make all the difference in your haul.

So, if you’re ready to plan the ultimate crabbing adventure, keep reading—we’ve got all the tips you need for a successful (and delicious) trip!

Best Time to go Crabbing in NJ 

During the warmer months, typically from late May through early October, blue crabs are most active.

Peak season usually falls between July and September, when water temperatures are at their highest and crabs are plentiful.

Timing your trip around the tides can also make a big difference — crabs are most active during the incoming and outgoing tides, especially a couple of hours before and after high tide. Early mornings and late afternoons tend to be the most productive times, as crabs are more likely to venture out in search of food.

How to Catch Crabs in NJ

1. Set Up Your Trap

Most crab traps have a prong in the middle to securely hold your bait. Make sure your bait is firmly in place to attract the most crabs.

2. Secure and Toss Your Trap

Tie the rope of your trap securely to the railing or dock—losing a trap to the water is no fun! Then, with a smooth motion, toss your trap into the water and let it sink to the bottom.

3. Wait Patiently

Crabs need time to find their way to the bait. We like to wait 10-15 minutes between checking traps to give them a chance to crawl in.

4. Pull Up Your Trap

With a steady hand, pull the trap up quickly to snap the trap doors shut, keeping the crabs inside until you get them on land. If you move too slowly, crabs might escape!

Using a Hand Line (Snag Line) Instead of a Trap

• Attach your bait underneath the weight.
• Tie your line to the dock or railing.
• Drop the line into the water until you feel the weight hit the bottom.
• When you feel a tug, slowly pull up the line while holding a net underneath to scoop up the crab before it lets go!

5. Handle Your Catch Carefully

• Once you’ve caught some crabs, be careful when handling them!
• Always pick them up from the back of the shell to avoid getting pinched.
• A pair of tongs makes it even easier to transfer them into your bucket safely.

Palmyth Wire Grid Bottom Crab Nets Two Ring Crab Kit with Harness and Bait Clip 24” X 20” X 12”Tackle Factory Foxy-Mate 66 Crab Trap50ft Crab Trap Rope Line Braided Polypropylene Great for Crabbing |Multi-Purpose| Use for Flag Pole Rope Replacement, Marine Rope, Hiking, and Camping Rope -Strong Outdoor RopeKing Kooker 14400 Crab TongsLakei Crab Gauge, Measure for Dungeness, Blue Crab, Rock Crab, Lobste 2/PacksA1FISHER 3Packs Crab Throw Line Length 30FT/9.14M with 4OZ Lead Weight

 

What is the best bait for crabbing in New Jersey?

The best bait for crabbing in New Jersey is something smelly and oily, as crabs are attracted to strong scents in the water. Popular choices include chicken necks, bunker (menhaden), fish heads, and razor clams.

• Chicken necks are a favorite because they’re cheap, easy to tie to a trap, and last a long time in the water.
• Bunker is another excellent option, as its strong fishy odor draws crabs in quickly.
• Some crabbers also swear by using leftover fish parts, like bluefish or porgy heads, which work well in both traps and hand lines.

Where is the best place to catch crabs in NJ?

• The Navesink River in Red Bank, NJ is a top spot for crabbing, the Navesink River offers plenty of blue crabs, scenic views, and multiple public docks and piers.
• Berkeley Island County Park (Bayville, NJ) features a dedicated crabbing pier on Barnegat Bay, making it a great spot for families.
• Bass River Bridge Area
• Barnegat Bay in Seaside Heights (Dock Outfitters has a nice fishing pier with a food concession stand)
• Windward Beach in Brick
• Good Luck Point in Bayville
• Somers Point (Patcong Creek, Great Egg Harbor River, Great Egg Harbor Bay, Mays Landing Road), Egg Harbor Township in Atlantic County
• At the end of Poplar Ave. in Linwood behind the Linwood Country Club
• Great Bay Blvd on Seven Bridges Road in Little Egg Harbor
• Rt 539 & Green Street, Tuckerton (at the end of the road)
• Grassy Sound Marina Wildwood (charges a small admission fee)
• Creek Boat Rentals in Dividing Creek has crab boat rentals
• Cape May National Wildlife Refuge, Wildwood Crest
• Route 52 Causeway Fishing Pier off of Ninth Street, Ocean City
• Mantoloking Bridge Park in Point Pleasant (This is a good park with public restrooms, small park area, picnic area, boat ramp)
• For a more remote experience, Dividing Creek in Cumberland County in South Jersey offers excellent crabbing along marshy creeks and rivers. You can rent a boat or crab from bridges and banks.
• A good area to rent small boats is Beaver Dam Boat Rentals, Newport

Look for areas with shallow water, such as marshes, piers, or docks, where crabs are known to congregate. Ideal spots often have submerged or floating structures like rocks or pilings, which crabs use as hiding places.

Crabbing is not allowed in certain conservation areas, so always check local regulations.

Recipes to Make with Freshly Caught Crabs

There’s nothing better than cooking with crabs you caught yourself – fresh crab meat is incredibly versatile.

• Turn your haul into crispy crab cakes, creamy crab dip, or a refreshing crab salad.
• Feeling fancy? Try crab stuffed flounder for an impressive dish.
• Crab stuffed biscuits are a buttery, flaky delight filled with creamy, seasoned crab meat, making them the perfect bite-sized indulgence for any occasion!
• Or keep it simple—crack them open and dip the sweet, juicy meat in melted butter with a squeeze of lemon.