Crab Loop Traps

February 23, 2023

Question: Can two crab loop traps be used simultaneously on one fishing pole?

Answer: Yes. It is legal to have two crab loop traps used simultaneously on one fishing pole. However, if you’re on a public pier, no person shall use more than two rods and lines, two hand lines, or two nets, traps or other appliances used to take crabs, per California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 14, section 28.65(b). Also see CCR, Title 14, section 29.80 which covers gear restrictions for recreational take of saltwater crustaceans. A hook is not a legal method of take for crabs. If you’re going to use crab loop traps, you’ll need to tie the trap onto the line instead of using a hook. Bottom line: While fishing for crabs from a public pier in ocean waters, you can either have two poles with one loop trap tied on each, or one pole with two loop traps.