Worth putting out stone crab traps???

[tallykenj]

I'm considering trying to catch stone crabs this season by putting out some traps. I've heard some people say they've had luck but other say the commercial guys and others will screw with them; going as far as cutting the lines. I'm wondering if its worth a try and I'm looking for opinions. I know there's no shortage of opinions on this forum so bring'em on.

Thanks.

[captkeyser]

I think you could definitely get them. I also think that they may get messed with. Your best bet would be to set them away from the mine field in front of the light house. Make sure you find some decent hard bottom. South East away from the commercial guys traps would be my recommendation.

[Vitz]

Those traps inshore are for blue crabs. You're going to want to head offshore to deeper water for stone crabs.

[neckmoe]

Those traps inshore are for blue crabs. You're going to want to head offshore to deeper water for stone crabs.

x2....best tip i've ever had about finding hard bottom is to look for the stone crab traps offshore.

[Jumptrout51]

The commercial stoners start their trap lines at the Refuge outer stake line(wooden poles) and run south from there. They start around the 2nd wooden pole,the old #4 pole,roughly in line with Grey Mare Rock. Some around here go further offshore but it is not necessary.

[reelbad]

Lots of grouper caught off the stone crab traps in 12 to 15 foot depths.

[Sea Dawg]

Well i sure would hate to get caught keeping the grouper that is caught in them traps...

[MrGreenJeans]

Drop a couple out and see what you get.