Crab Cooler

[mickyyy]

I need some input on whether this crab cooler idea is likely to work or not:  Put ice on the bottom of a cooler, then place a piece of wood or plastic over the ice to keep the crabs separated from the ice, and water below. Basically, the crabs will be sitting on a shelf above the ice and the water. I can put "legs" on the shelf to make sure that it does not sink into the freshwater that will form below. Will this dry, cold storage method keep them alive, or not?

[Terrapin T]

I think it depends how long you want to keep them alive for.  Regardless still need wet towel/burlap on top and don't close the cooler completely so that they get air.

[mickyyy]

They could be in the cooler for 4-6 hrs before arriving back home.

[Terrapin T]

I'd still do as above but when I have crabs in a cooler on the way home in my truck I just sprinkle ice right on top.  Once I get home I let the water that has melted drain out the bottom.  Overall don't let them dry out.

[jack1747]

Just use a frozen gallon jug or 2.... Liter soda bottles work great.  But yes it would work fine. 

[mickyyy]

Plenty of good info. Thanks The only thing missing now is the crabs. They are just starting to move into RI waters. Should be up and running in 1-2 weeks