Non Commercial Crab Pot Placement

[WorkerB]

Do I have to use a buoy or a float to mark my recreational crab pot? I'm planning on leaving my pot to soak overnight and I do not want to advertise its location to potential thieves. If I attach my license number directly to the pot am I ok or do I have to have my number on display above the water line?

[olclamman]

  if  you are using  a 2x2x2  Maryland  type   pot  its  consided  a commercial  pot
    read  the  regs  they are for  every one  
                                                            oc

[WorkerB]

I read the rules and regulations and they state you must stake or buoy trot lines at either end. As far as pots are concerned it states your license number must be visible on your buoy, stake, or permanently attached to your pot. It doesn't specify wether or not you have to use a buoy or stake. I just wanted an experienced persons advice regarding the use of a buoy or a stake. I'm gathering that you only have to use a buoy or stake if you are using trot lines. I don't want to buoy or stake my pot if I don't have to. I just want to make sure I'm interpreting the regulations correctly.

[salt hay]

You don't have to use a bouy. You can use a stake, but it has to have your permit #'s written on it. it has to visible about mean high water line.  That being said the stake does not need to stick out like a sore thumb.  A 2' piece of firring strip in the salt-hay grass can hide pretty well.  

[WorkerB]

Thanks for the response and the advice Salt Hay.