Chinese Mitten Crabs

[Marineboy]

Originally Posted by LoveUKNature

Hi everyone,

I want to catch these mitten crabs, can anyone tell me first, when is the best season to start? and do i need a license to catch crabs along the river thames? what the license is called and where to apply for it?

many thanks

I don't know about any licence needed to catch these crabs. Knowing the Environment Agency if they knew people were wanting to catch them they probably would put all sorts of restrictions on them. Like the Signal Crayfish they are an alien invader of our waterways and I am sure the EA would like to control any possible further introductions to other waters.
Enquire at one of the Thames fishing clubs. They will most likely be aware of these crabs and might be able to advise whether an ordinary EA fishing licence might be required. Maybe try a bit of simple "pond dipping" with a baited net - but don't use the crayfish traps as they can be illegal, and indiscriminate, trapping and drowning anything inquisitive.
Watch your footing as these crabs dig right into the side of the river bank, which then has a tendancy to collapse.
Happy crabbin'!

[free spirit]

Hi free spirit here,
We have these in York, the local anglers found them at Naiburn Locks, a couple of years ago. They tend to burrow in to the bank and are regarded as a pest. York University asked for any crabs that are caught to be sent to them. Also DEFRA is involved, you may be able to get more information from this department at Sand Hutton, York.
Free Spirit