Netting Pass Crabs for Tarpon Fishing Catching Bait for BIG Fish in Sarasota Florida

Netting Pass Crabs Catching Bait Sarasota, Florida

As summer draws near, Florida's anglers gear up for one of the most exhilarating fishing seasons—the Tarpon season. Known for their sheer strength and acrobatic leaps, Tarpon are a prized catch among sport fishermen worldwide. In Sarasota, Florida, a unique and cost-effective method of baiting these mighty fish involves netting pass crabs on a falling tide, an activity that combines family fun with practical fishing preparations.

What are Pass Crabs?

Pass crabs, small crabs found in the waters around Florida, are a top choice for baiting Tarpon and other finicky saltwater species like Permit. These crabs are typically swept out into the open during falling tides, making them accessible for netting. While pass crabs can be bought for about $3 each, catching your own not only saves money but also adds an engaging element to the fishing experience.

The Best Time to Net Pass Crabs

The optimal time for netting pass crabs is during a falling negative tide, which occurs when the tide level is below the average sea level. This phenomenon causes the crabs to rush out with the outgoing waters, making them easier to capture. Captain Randall, a seasoned Floridian fisherman, emphasizes timing in his fishing video, guiding viewers on how to plan their crab-catching adventure according to tidal movements.

Techniques for Successful Crab Netting

In the video, Captain Randall demonstrates techniques for netting pass crabs. The key is to use a long-handled dip net and to gently scoop the crabs from the water without causing harm. It's important to move swiftly yet steadily to capture the crabs as they are carried out by the tide.

DIY Crab Holding Tank

After netting, ensuring the crabs' survival until they're used as bait is crucial. Captain Randall shares a do-it-yourself guide for building a crab holding tank back at home. This simple setup involves a basic aerated tank that keeps the crabs healthy and vigorous, ready for a fishing trip. Materials for the tank can typically be found at local hardware stores, and the build is straightforward enough for family participation.

A Family-Friendly Activity

Netting pass crabs is presented as more than just a fishing chore; it's a fun and educational activity for families. Participants learn about the local marine ecosystem while engaging in a hands-on activity that teaches patience and technique. It's a perfect way for families to bond over a shared interest in nature and fishing.

The Reward: Fishing with Live Crabs

Using freshly netted pass crabs as bait increases the chances of hooking a Tarpon or Permit significantly. These crabs are considered irresistible to these fish, making your efforts worthwhile. The excitement of using bait that you've caught yourself adds an extra layer of satisfaction to the fishing experience.

In this Landed fishing video anglers get equipped with the knowledge needed to catch their own pass crabs but also turns the entire process into an enjoyable activity. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice looking to get into the sport, netting pass crabs offers a fantastic way to prepare for the Florida Tarpon season while enjoying time with family and friends. So, grab your dip net and head to Sarasota's shores on the next falling tide for an adventure that might end with hooking the mighty Silver King.

Timestamps
0:01 - Scooping Pass Crabs for Tarpon
1:18 Crabs Spotted Us
1:55 Netting Pass Crabs on a Falling Tide
2:53 Catching Crab - Falling Tide
3:56 Catching Pass Crab Sarasota FL
4:40 Family-Fun Scavenger Hunt
5:50 Reading the Tides
6:30 Best Time to Net Pass Crab
7:55 DIY Holding Pass Crabs
8:40 Removing Crab Claws
10:00 Holding a Crab - Not Get Pinched
11:18 Water for Crabs Using Livewell
11:40 DIY Crab Tank Holding Pass Crab
12:36 DON'T DO THIS!
13:15 Water Changes - Feeding - Maintenance
14:15 Crabs in the Tank & Air Stone
15:00 Live Bait Readily Available