Trotline Crabbing methods range from simple and inexpensive to an elaborate investment of time and money. A dip net is the primary catching device that also serves to transport the crab to your container.
Crabs are quick and can bite or pinch with their claws.
Although they seldom do more than draw a little blood, the bite can momentarily be painful. It is a good idea to learn how to handle a live hard-shelled crab with your bare hands. A crab must be held from the back, away from the snapping claws. But in order to get hold of it, you must first find a way to keep it still. Press lightly on the top shell with a shoe, stick, or other device.