The Grey Swimming Crab

This video contains the hooking of a live crab and may be disturbing to some viewers, so viewer discretion is advised. This video is to show you how to properly hook a live grey swimming crab for bait when catching snook, tarpon, ladyfish, sheepshead, and other fish that feed on crabs. It is also best to use these “free-lined,” meaning don’t use a sinker and allow the crab to freely swim on top of the water.

Characteristics and Habitat

Grey Swimming Crabs are distinguished by their broad, flat bodies and unique ability to swim. Unlike many other crab species, they possess strong, paddle-like hind legs that are specially adapted for swimming. Their coloration varies from greenish-grey to brownish, which provides excellent camouflage against the ocean floor, making it easier for them to ambush their prey.

These crabs predominantly inhabit sandy and muddy bottoms in shallow coastal waters and estuaries, where they can hide from predators and forage for food. They are most commonly found at depths of up to 100 meters, showcasing their adaptability to various marine environments.

Diet and Behavior

Primarily carnivorous, Grey Swimming Crabs have a diverse diet consisting of fish, mollusks, and other crustaceans. This opportunistic feeding behavior helps maintain the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. During the search for food, these crabs utilize their keen sense of smell, which allows them to detect prey from considerable distances.

Grey Swimming Crabs are known for their lively behavior, especially during mating seasons. Males often engage in aggressive displays to establish dominance and attract females. The impressive courtship rituals involve elaborate movements and sounds, providing a captivating spectacle for those lucky enough to witness it.

However a jig head will work best with Snapper and Sheepshead.

DO NOT KEEP CRABS THAT HAVE EGGS

DO NOT USE AND CRABS THAT HAVE EGGS FOR BAIT.

STONE CRABS ARE NOT ALLOWED TO BE USED FOR BAIT, AND TRAPPING BLUE TRAPS REQUIRES A BLUE CRAB LICENSE.

USE ONLY GREY SWIMMING CRABS, FIDDLER CRABS OR MARSH CRABS FOR BAIT.