"Crab and Lobster Fishing"
For a detailed overview on crab fishing, you may want to read "Crab and Lobster Fishing" by full-time skipper Alan Spence. This 160-page book offers a comprehensive look at crab fishing---from basic crab biology to crabbing boats to hauling techniques. Spence also dedicates two chapters on the costs of running your own boat and how to market your crab fishing business. The book includes illustrations and a glossary.
"Working on the Edge: Surviving In the World's Most Dangerous Profession"
First published in 1991, Spike Walker's memoir, "Working on the Edge: Surviving in the World's Most Dangerous Profession," recounts his experience as a deckhand on an Alaskan crabbing boat. Over 312 pages, Walker covers the treacherous conditions of this job (gale-force winds and icy waters) along with its rewards (a $100,000 paycheck for four months of work). He also offers insights on why the fishing industry collapsed in the 1980s. This book is a great starting point for people who want to enter the crab fishing profession.
"North by Northwestern: A Seafaring Family on Deadly Alaskan Waters"
Fans of the reality show "Deadliest Catch" will enjoy this memoir by Sig Hansen, one of the skippers featured on the program. In "North by Northwestern: A Seafaring Family on Deadly Alaskan Waters," Hansen describes his family's love affair with commercial fishing and his own experiences on the Bering Sea. If you are thinking about becoming a professional crab fisherman, this book can give you a feel for what this lifestyle is like.
"Blue Crabs: Catch 'Em, Cook 'Em, Eat 'Em"
If you are interested in amateur crab fishing, then you may want to read Peter Meyer's book "Blue Crabs: Catch 'Em, Cook 'Em, Eat 'Em." With 120 pages, this basic guide features practical information on how to catch blue crabs and where to find them along the U.S. Atlantic Coast. Along with crabbing techniques, Meyer also provides tips on what bait you should use and how to cook the crabs once you've caught them. The book is hailed by Florida Wildlife Magazine as "an essential book for blue crab lovers."
Article Written By Caroline Tung Richmond
A native of Washington, D.C., Caroline Tung Richmond has worked as a freelance writer since 2007. Her articles have appeared in both print and online publications such as the "Baltimore Sun," "Highlights" and Travels.com. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Brigham Young University.
