Advice on handling crab traps

This week I went crabbing solo for the first time, and one of the things I need to do is improve the way I handle the trap once it’s pulled into the kayak. Does anyone have tips or advice to share?

I have a Revo 16, with FF on the right side, and I removed the rod holder from the left side so that it’s clear for pulling the trap. I’m using the Danielson (2x2x1 ft) trap. Despite not having anything on my deck, it’s still challenging to hold the trap, juggle the crabs and measuring, put them in the catch bag, and so on. It doesn’t feel safe. I also tried removing the drive for when I bring the trap up, but I found it cumbersome and risky.

I came up with an idea to have buoys support the trap on one end and a cord connecting the trap to the kayak on the other end. This way my hands would be free and the trap won’t be on the deck. I haven’t tested this idea yet. I’m curious to see what other folks do and get advice on safety.

I think you are thinking too hard here.  Dont remove the drive, the risk of losing it could be high if you turtle (or if you accidentally knock it over).  If you feel unstable, having the drive in will help.  You can also leash the drive so it is flatter so you can put the trap lower toward the floor.  There is a bungie cord for that for your Revo.  I usually put my feet on the side for additional balance.  No need to peek over the COG, the trap will come to you soon enough.

Pull the rope from one side, and dump the rope on the other side (or same side, whatever you prefer) and let it float.  Put the trap on your lap, open the cage, then shake off whatever you can in front of you toward the bottom hatch.  Put the trap somewhere in front of you (i.e. on top of the drive and fish finder).  As long as the trap stays, you're good.  Alternatively, you can pick up the crab directly from the pot one at a time.  But sometimes will have a big mean monster, so I would prefer the dump method (I am yet to have any crab that makes an escape from the deck on its own).  For the monster crab, its handy to have like a small towel or cloth that you can throw on top of it, so it will pinch the towel/cloth instead and you can pick it up fairly easily.  You can also use your gloves.  Get your bag handy behind you, so you can easily grab and store. 

A good idea to put on a glove in case the crab pinch you.  The reflect of being pinch is an elevated risk 

You can also put a 1/2" pvc on the sail hole and put the trap in front of you.
I would say two to three more trips and you will get it down. 

PVC in the aft scuppers.  Or do what I did, buy a Santa Cruz raptor g2.  They are perfect for crabbing.

PVC in the aft scuppers.  Or do what I did, buy a Santa Cruz raptor g2.  They are perfect for crabbing.

So true .... so much space and so stable.

Thanks guys. I think I’ll try to bring the crab trap up momentarily to shake the crabs down. I’m going to leave the drive in place so that crabs don’t run away and I can move quick in case of emergency.
Thanks for the tips!
BTW - I always wear gloves; crabbing or not. And I’m not getting a second kayak at least not until my son is old enough!

Thanks guys. I think I’ll try to bring the crab trap up momentarily to shake the crabs down. I’m going to leave the drive in place so that crabs don’t run away and I can move quick in case of emergency.
Thanks for the tips!
BTW - I always wear gloves; crabbing or not. And I’m not getting a second kayak at least not until my son is old enough!

How did it go

Thanks guys. I think I’ll try to bring the crab trap up momentarily to shake the crabs down. I’m going to leave the drive in place so that crabs don’t run away and I can move quick in case of emergency.
Thanks for the tips!
BTW - I always wear gloves; crabbing or not. And I’m not getting a second kayak at least not until my son is old enough!

How did it go

Haven’t had a chance to go out yet... Maybe towards thanks giving. I’ll try to remember to report

neat.. crab pot outrigger