Crabbing & Prawning 101: How to Get Started in BC

If you’re boating in British Columbia and haven’t tried crabbing or prawning, you’re missing out on two of the coast’s most rewarding (and delicious) marine adventures. Whether you’re in it for the fun, the food, or both, here’s your easy 5-step guide to crabbing and prawning in BC—so you can hit the water fully prepped and ready to reel in something tasty.

Step 1: Get Licensed

Before you drop a trap, make sure you have your tidal fishing license. It’s quick and easy to get online, and you’ll need it to legally catch crabs or prawns in BC. 

Step 2: Download the Fishing BC app

We also recommend downloading the Fishing BC app—it shows regulations for your location, including whether prawning or crabbing is allowed where you plan to go.

Step 3: Choose the Right Trap

There are different traps for crabs and prawns, so make sure you’re using the right trap for the job. Some are designed specifically for one species, while others are combination traps that let you do both. 

Pro tip: If you want to save space on your boat, consider collapsible traps—they’re easy to store and great for boaters on the move.

Step 4: Know Your Depths (and Your Line)

To catch crabs in BC, you’ll want to set your traps between 60 and 150 feet of water. For prawning in BC, you’ll need to go deeper—between 280 and 400 feet. Many boaters choose 400 feet of leaded line to keep prawn pots secure, allowing you to prawn anywhere. According to the BC Fishing Journal, adding an extra 100 feet of line beyond the water depth gives you flexibility—especially to account for tide changes.

Step 5: Don’t Forget the Buoy

Your buoy isn’t just for visibility—it helps you track and recover your traps. Make sure you choose the correct one for your target: yellow round buoys for prawning and red-and-white pointy buoys for crabbing. Don’t forget to put your name and phone number on your buoy. It helps keep things easy and stays within the regulations.

Bonus Tips for Success

Now that you’ve checked out our guide to crabbing and prawning, you’re ready to sink your traps into all the excitement BC has to offer. So, grab your gear, hit the water, and enjoy the thrill of reeling in your very own fresh seafood feast!

Happy boating—and even happier snacking! 🦀🍤