Lake Mattamuskeet (was: Crabbing in the Carolinas)

[Joe]

What is the name and location of a shallow lake in either North Carolina or South Carolina where there are supposed to be a lot of crabs - no commercial crabbing is allowed in this lake.

[Steve]

I believe you're referring to Lake Mattamuskeet (see http://www.mattamuskeet.org)

I've been there twice while vacationing on the Outer Banks (Lake Mattamuskeet is about a 45 minute drive from Manteo). Caught two dozen nice jimmies last year, the largest being 8 1/4"

If you're planning to go, try Lake Landing canal or Waupoppin canal. No crabpots or any unattended gear allowed. No commercial crabbing allowed. And you cannot sell your catch or you'll face a $500 fine.

[Joe]

Thank you for replying to my message.  You said that unattended pots are not allowed in these areas.  When I go crabbing I go in my kayak.  I put down several pots and go from one to the other in my kayak, leaving some of them unattended at times.  Is this allowed?  I assume from what you said that pots can't be left overnight, or for long periods of time, but do you think it would be OK to just leave them unattended for a short period of time?   Also, could you give me some idea of where the areas are that you mentioned- what town they're near or something like that.

[Steve]

Call Don Temple... he's the Refuse Manager down there.

(252) 926-4021

or email:

[email protected]

I don't think you can leave -any- unattended gear in the lake.

[Steve]

Oh yeah, no crabpots allowed.

Hand-activated traps, yes.

Crabpots, no.

[Steve]

Sign posted at Lake Mattamuskeet