"There's Crab To Catch..."

The sun came up... and everything wonderful about my life is the same.

And every problem facing America, is still there.

The mob has spoken, and they said overwhelmingly - by 2% of the voting population - that they want Obama to have one more crack at fixing those problems.

Good luck.

I refuse to buy into the doom and gloom. This is not because I am naive. I'm just a rugged optimist.

Does it suck? Oh yeah. Sure does. Big time.

But you know what, there's crab to catch. So you just gotta get back out on deck and get working.

In life, you don't get to wake up and choose the weather. You just have to deal with what it is, for how long it lasts.

And so too, with this.

I have some stray thoughts on how to better "trim up" our "team" so we can start winning again. But right now, they are loose and scattered. Maybe this time next week, they will have congealed in my brain and I'll share them here.

In the meantime, I'll leave you with Lt. Dan on the mast of the Jenny.

"You call this a storm? It's time for a showdown. You.. and me...."

Title: There's Crab To Catch: Exploring the Fascinating World of Crabbing

Introduction

When the sun paints the horizon with hues of orange and pink, and the gentle lull of waves becomes a soothing melody, there's an age-old tradition that comes to life along coastlines around the world – crabbing. A pastime that blends tranquility with excitement, crabbing has been a source of sustenance and recreation for generations. In this article, we delve deep into the world of crabbing, exploring its techniques, equipment, species, and even addressing some common questions in our FAQ section.

The Art of Crabbing

Crabbing is a time-honored practice that involves catching crabs from saltwater or freshwater bodies. The thrill of crabbing lies in the unpredictability – you never know what will come up in your trap. Beyond the thrill, crabbing also offers an opportunity to connect with nature, learn about marine life, and enjoy quality time with friends and family.

Techniques and Equipment

1. Crab Traps: These come in various designs, but the most common ones are rectangular wire cages with funnel-like entrances. These traps are baited with fish, chicken, or other seafood and lowered into the water from piers, docks, or boats. Once crabs enter the trap to feast on the bait, they often struggle to find their way out, making them easy to catch.

2. Hand Line Crabbing: This simple technique involves attaching bait to a weighted line and dropping it off a pier or boat. When a crab latches onto the bait, you slowly pull it up, allowing you to scoop up the crab with a net.

3. Crab Nets: Also known as dip nets, these are handheld nets with a hoop and mesh bag that are lowered into the water and scooped under the crab to catch it.

Common Crab Species

1. Blue Crabs: Found along the Atlantic coast of the Americas, blue crabs are prized for their sweet and tender meat. They are known for their distinct blue hue and can be found in estuaries and bays.

2. Dungeness Crabs: These crabs are renowned for their succulent and flavorful meat. They inhabit the waters of the Pacific Northwest and are typically larger than blue crabs.

3. Snow Crabs: Often called queen crabs, snow crabs are harvested in cold waters, particularly in the North Atlantic and North Pacific. They have long, spindly legs and a delicate, slightly sweet flavor.

4. Stone Crabs: Found in the Gulf of Mexico and along the southeastern coast of the United States, stone crabs are known for their large claws. The claws are harvested, and the crab is released back into the water to regenerate its claws.

FAQs about Crabbing

Q1: Do I need a license to go crabbing?

A1: Regulations vary depending on your location. Some places require a recreational fishing license, while others have specific crabbing licenses. It's essential to research and abide by local regulations to ensure you're crabbing legally.

Q2: What's the best bait for crabbing?

A2: Crabs are opportunistic feeders, and various baits can be used, including raw fish, chicken necks, squid, or even canned cat food. Experiment with different baits to see what works best in your area.

Q3: When is the best time to go crabbing?

A3: Crabs are most active during high tide, especially during the new and full moon phases. Early morning and late afternoon can also be productive times. Research local tide charts to plan your crabbing trip effectively.

Q4: How do I handle crabs safely?

A4: Crabs can have strong pincers that can give you a painful pinch. To handle them safely, grasp the crab from behind, avoiding the pincers. If you need to remove a crab from a trap, consider using gloves or a towel for added protection.

Q5: What's the legal size for catching crabs?

A5: Different crab species and locations have varying size regulations to ensure the sustainability of crab populations. Always familiarize yourself with size limits and any other regulations to avoid harvesting undersized crabs.

Q6: Can I keep female crabs?

A6: Many regions have regulations against keeping female crabs, especially those carrying eggs. This is to protect the breeding population and ensure the future of the crab population. Always check local regulations before keeping any crabs.

Conclusion

Crabbing is more than just a recreational activity – it's a way to connect with nature, savor the taste of the sea, and create lasting memories. Whether you're dangling a hand line off a pier or lowering crab traps from a boat, the anticipation of what lies beneath the surface adds a touch of adventure to every trip. As you venture into the world of crabbing, remember to respect local regulations, handle crabs with care, and embrace the joy of the chase. So, when you find yourself at the water's edge with the sun dipping below the horizon, remember: there's crab to catch, and a world of wonder to explore.