How to Catch Crabs in Ocean City, Maryland

If you’re wondering how to catch crabs in Ocean City, Maryland, the easiest and most enjoyable way is to hop aboard Get Sum Charters for a hands-on crabbing adventure. Spend the day on the bay with Captain Nick, learn the tricks of the trade, and bring home fresh Maryland blue crabs for dinner. No license is required when you’re on the boat with us — just bring your sense of adventure, and we’ll provide the rest.

Prefer to Go Crabbing on Your Own?

If a crab charter isn’t your thing, no worries — Ocean City offers plenty of do-it-yourself crabbing options too. Check out our helpful links and videos to learn about different crabbing methods, all available locally. From hand lines off the pier to collapsible traps from the shoreline, you’ll find a style that suits you. Just be sure to review Maryland’s crabbing regulations, creel limits, and licensing requirements before you start. Whether you go solo or book a trip with Get Sum Charters, crabbing in Ocean City is always a fun and rewarding experience.

Using collapsible traps to catch crabs

One of the most popular methods for catching Maryland blue crabs in Ocean City is using collapsible crab traps. Whether you’re crabbing from a dock, a pier, or a boat, this technique allows you to drop baited traps that automatically close when a crab enters. It’s simple, effective, and great for beginners and families alike. Learn how to use collapsible crab traps 

COllapsible Traps

Using hand lines to catch crabs

Hand line crabbing is one of the most popular and family-friendly ways to catch crabs in Ocean City, Maryland. Most often done from a dock, it can also be enjoyed from a boat or even the shoreline. This simple technique uses a baited line and a small weight, requiring a bit of patience and quick hands — which makes it especially fun for kids. It’s an active, exciting way to connect with the water and bring in fresh blue crabs. Learn how to crab with hand lines 

Hand Lines

Using crab pots to catch Maryland blue crabs

If you’re ready to sit back and wait for a big haul, using crab pots in Ocean City, Maryland might be the perfect crabbing method for you. Commercial-style crab pots are designed to trap multiple blue crabs at once, making them ideal for a full-day soak. However, it’s important to note that they come with more regulations than hand lines or collapsible traps — including licensing and tagging requirements. Learn more about crabbing with pots 

Crab Pots

Using a trotline to catch crabs

A trotline is a classic and highly effective method for catching Maryland blue crabs, especially for those looking to cover more water. This long, baited line is stretched between two anchors and slowly pulled in from a boat, allowing crabs to be scooped up as they cling to the bait. It’s a traditional waterman’s technique that takes a bit more setup but can yield impressive results. Discover how to crab with a trotline 

Trotlines