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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.

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
📍 Find spots near me🗺️ Explore on the full map

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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