CRAB SNARES IN FLORIDA

[Crab Shack]

Are crab snares legal in Florida?  There is a recent video on YouTube (CRAZY DIY)

[Crab Shack]

I JUST RECEIVED A CALL FROM THE FWC REGARDING BLUE CLAW CRAB REGULATIONS SAYING THAT ANYTHING CAN BE USED THAT DOESN'T DAMAGE THE SHELL. I TOOK THAT TO MEAN THAT A CRAB'S LEG IS NOT ITS' SHELL. I HOPE THAT FWC OFFICERS USE THAT SAME DEFINITION. 😎

[Steve]

My guess is they are saying anything that doesn't damage the crab (e.g., you catch a short and damage it, it might die after you throw it back). That would defeat the purpose of releasing the undersized crabs.

[Crab Shack]

My guess is they are saying anything that doesn't damage the crab (e.g., you catch a short and damage it, it might die after you throw it back). That would defeat the purpose of releasing the undersized crabs.

Spearfishing for crabs is illegal because the spear(or arrow) would pierce(damage) the shell.  Snaring it (snagging) it by the leg would only damage the crab by it losing a leg (if the snare wire or filament cuts into the leg)  If the snare is made with thicker material I don't think it would cut into the leg)  Also, should the snare break off from the mail line the snare material could be connected to the bait trap with a metal clip that rusts off eventually freeing the snared crab.  If this is used, wouldn't it be "legal" equipment?  Each Wildlife officer had his own assessment.