WikiCatch

Atlantic horseshoe crab

Limulus polyphemus

Family
Limulidae
Max Length
60 cm
Max Weight
1.8 kg
IUCN Status
VU
Water Type
saltwater
Fishing Spots
11

Best Baits & Lures

Live Baits

  • Eel

    Cut into chunks; very effective.

  • Surf Clams

    Cracked open; good scent trail.

  • Bloodworms

    A classic; use on a hook.

  • Squid

    Cut into strips; durable bait.

  • Bunker (Menhaden)

    Oily and fragrant, attract predators.

Artificial Lures

  • Bomber Saltwater Grade Long ACrankbait

    Trolled slowly; mimics baitfish.

    Buy
  • Yo-Zuri Mag DarterCrankbait

    Erratic action triggers strikes.

    Buy
  • Bucktail JigJig

    White or yellow; tipped with bait.

    Buy
  • Gulp! Swimming MulletSoft Plastic

    Chartreuse color, great scent.

    Buy
  • SpoonSpoon

    Silver or gold; cast and retrieve.

    Buy

Techniques

Target areas near inlets and channels where larger fish congregate to feed on horseshoe crabs; use a slow retrieve to allow fish to find the bait.

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Where to Find Atlantic horseshoe crab

Maine, United States3 spotsMassachusetts, United States2 spotsRhode Island, United States1 spotsConnecticut, United States1 spotsIndiana, United States1 spotsMichigan, United States1 spotsFlorida, United States1 spots
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bait for Atlantic horseshoe crab?+

Popular baits for Atlantic horseshoe crab include Eel, Surf Clams, Bloodworms, Squid, Bunker (Menhaden). Tip: Target areas near inlets and channels where larger fish congregate to feed on horseshoe crabs; use a slow retrieve to allow fish to find the bait.

Where can I catch Atlantic horseshoe crab?+

Atlantic horseshoe crab can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include Maine, United States; Massachusetts, United States; Rhode Island, United States. WikiCatch lists 11 fishing spots where this species is found.

How big do Atlantic horseshoe crab get?+

Atlantic horseshoe crab (Limulus polyphemus) can reach up to 60 cm in length and 1.8 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is VU.

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