How to Set Up a Legal Stone Crab Trap


Florida (and many other States hav strict regulations for stone crab trapping — and it’s easy to get fined if your gear isn’t compliant. This guide walks you through the essentials.

Crabbing Essentials

Trap Tags

Custom Trap Tags
Required by Florida law on every trap. These custom-engraved tags include your name, address, and license ID to help authorities identify your gear — and protect your catch if traps are lost.

Escape Rings

Stone Crab

Blue Crab

Legally required for all stone crab traps. These rings allow undersized crabs to escape and promote sustainability. Must be installed on the side opposite the chew-out panel.

Claw Gauges

Stone Crab

Don’t guess—measure. Florida law only allows you to harvest claws 2 7/8" or longer. This durable gauge ensures you stay compliant and protect the stone crab population.

Bait Jars

Bair Jar

Use these vented, reusable jars to hold your bait in place and attract more crabs. Built from marine-safe PETG plastic to withstand salt, sun, and splashes.

Trap Hooks

Trap Hooks (S&L)

Secure your trap doors with stainless steel hooks. These prevent crabs from escaping while keeping your gear accessible for easy unloading.

A man and woman pulling a stone crab trap onto a center console boat in the Florida Keys during sunrise, with the text 'Start Your Day the Right Way – Legal, ethical, and ready to fish. This is stone crabbing done right.

Out on the Water: Trapping the Right Way

Stone crab fishing isn’t just about tossing a trap overboard — it’s about doing it responsibly. Wherever you're dropping traps, staying compliant with local regulations is key. From properly marked buoys to escape rings, bait containers, and measuring gauges, each component plays a role in legal and ethical crabbing.

Whether you're new to the water or have seasons under your belt, using the right gear helps protect the resource and keeps you fishing without fines or frustration. The image beside this section shows what a well-prepped, regulation-ready setup looks like in action.