Crabbing in Wilmington, NC: A Simple Guide for Newbies
Oh, well, if ya ever get the chance to visit Wilmington, North Carolina, and ya like fishin’ or catchin’ crabs, then you’ve come to the right place. They got them crabs in plenty, sure as the sun comes up every mornin’. But let me tell ya, it ain’t as easy as it sounds. If you’re new to crabbing, like most folks who come down here, don’t be shy to ask for help. I always say, sometimes it’s best to just book a charter boat, so you don’t end up all confused like a chicken on a hot day.
Now, what’s a charter boat, ya ask? Well, that’s just a fancy way of sayin’ a boat that’ll take ya out and help ya with all the crabbing stuff. They got the gear, the bait, and most importantly, they know where them crabs are hidin’. See, sometimes crabs can be real tricky. They move around, and you might get all set up with your trap, only to find nothin’ but mud. A charter boat takes care of all that for ya, and you don’t gotta worry about nothin’ – just sit back and enjoy the ride.
But, if you’re the kind of person who wants to try crabbing on your own, that’s fine too! Ya just gotta know where to look and what to use. Wilmington’s got a lotta good spots for crabbing, though I won’t say one is better than the other. They all got their good days and bad days. I remember one time, I thought I found the perfect spot down by the river, and didn’t catch a single crab. Ya just gotta keep at it. The crabs don’t follow no schedule.
Now, let me tell ya a bit about the best times to go crabbing in Wilmington. The crabs, they like the warm weather. From May to September, that’s when you’ll find ’em more often than not. But the real sweet spot, if you ask me, is in the fall. Yup, come September, them crabs get real fat and juicy, and that’s when you’ll find the best catch. A hard-shelled crab, now that’s a good one. They got more meat in ’em, about 20% to 30%. Soft-shelled crabs, well, they got a little less, maybe only 12%, but they still tasty.
Where to Go Crabbing?
- Carolina Beach – This place got them good ol’ crabbing spots, with plenty of bays and channels to set up a trot line. If you don’t know what a trot line is, it’s just a long line with some bait on it, like chicken necks or fish heads. Ya drop that in the water, and before long, you might just catch yourself a big ol’ crab!
- Wilmington Waterfront – Down by the waterfront, you’ll find a lotta good spots too. I remember seein’ people set up their lines right off the pier. Might need a little patience, but it’s always worth it.
- Seaview Crab Company – This place is a must if you want to eat crabs fresh. Not only can you buy ‘em, but they also got some spots nearby for ya to try your luck.
As for gear, well, you don’t need nothin’ too fancy. A simple crab pot or basket will do just fine. Now, don’t be thinkin’ you need a big ol’ boat and fancy equipment like them rich folks. Nope. All you really need is a little patience, a good spot, and some of them chicken necks. And if you don’t know where to find the crabs, well, a guide on a charter boat sure will help you out!
How to Catch Crabs Like a Pro
Now, if you’re serious about catchin’ crabs, I’ll tell ya the best way I know. First, you gotta find a good spot. The crabs like the shallow waters, especially around piers and docks. They like to hide under rocks or along the edges of the water where it’s nice and calm. Once you got your spot, ya need your bait – like I said, chicken necks work real good. Just tie ’em on the end of a string or a trot line and drop it in the water. Wait a little while, and then start pullin’ it up. If you’re lucky, you’ll have a good-sized crab or two hangin’ on for the ride!
Where to Eat Crabs in Wilmington
If you catch more crabs than you can eat, well, lucky you! Wilmington’s got some of the best places to chow down on crabs. I hear Carolina Crab House is a favorite. They serve up fresh crabs, fried, steamed, or however you like ’em. And if you’re not up for crabbing yourself, just head over to Ronnie’s Crab Shack, Seabird, or Michael’s on the Waterfront. They all know how to cook up some good seafood!
So, what are you waitin’ for? Grab your gear, book that charter boat, or head down to the pier and see if you can catch yourself a crab or two. It’s a fun way to spend a day, and there’s always a chance you’ll get yourself a big ol’ blue crab, the kind that makes your mouth water just thinkin’ about it. And remember, it ain’t just about catchin’ crabs – it’s about enjoyin’ the day, the company, and the beauty of Wilmington’s waters.
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