Greetings from Vallejo

Hello & howdy everyone!

I’ve been kayaking for 5+ years intermittently, but some life changes will allow me more time out on the water (both kayaking & surfing).

I’m planning a trip to go crabbing & kayak camping with my brother-in-law in Tómales Bay. This will be our first time crabbing, and I know it will be a challenge because I only have a sit inside sea kayak at this time.  Planning to purchase a SOT (or even a SUP) in the future for fishing, and possibly free diving as I’ve been wanting to try for a few years.

Would love any advice for a new crabber!  Planning to purchase some hoop style nets, but curious about which weight is best (listed from 5-15 lbs online).

Thanks and hope to see you out on the water.

Welcome to NCKA CaseoftheCrabs

Welcome to NCKA
Good luck and stay safe on your crabbing trip.

Careful about tomales, read up on currents and tidal surge.
You're in the right place tho...

Welcome aboard 

Welcome.  Love Tomales!  Didn't know hoops came with a weight choice as well as a diameter choice.  32" promar or similar conical and add weight, rebar, dumbbells with zipties as you figure your stuff out.  Geetum brah!

Welcome to the Madness!   

I run regular Promar rings and don't add any weight.  Totally depends on where you crab, tides...etc.

Best of luck.

Welcome aboard. 

-Kiel

Welcome aboard! 

I use these hoops, haven't had any issues, but I also really only crab in Pacifica - Tomales has some strong currents and you would probably want to add weight.  They come with 100' of rope.  I just add a couple buoys to the end, and mark them with my name/GO ID.  The pocket holds a good amount of bait, but separate mesh bags makes it a little easier to manage. 

https://promarahi.com/collections/crabbing-gear/products/promar-jumbo-deluxe-hoop-nets

They stack nicely on deck, if you have a decent flat spot.  If not, you might have to get creative - lots of folks use PVC pipes to make holders.  Big thing is balance - they are kinda heavy and bring your center of gravity a little higher.  Be prepared for that.