How to Catch Mole Crabs On The Beach in Perdido Key

A young girl holds a mole crab, caught behind the Beach Colony condominiums in Perdido Key, Florida.

Welcome to Perdido Key’s Beach Colony, where relaxation meets adventure on a massive, pristine stretch of private beach. While lounging in luxury is always an option, why not try something a bit more hands-on and family-friendly during your stay? Enter the charming world of mole crab catching!

Whether you're an experienced beachcomber or new to coastal life, this activity is perfect for creating unforgettable memories with family and friends.

Mole crabs are harmless to humans. Though wiggly they will not hurt kids.

What Are Mole Crabs?

Mole crabs, sometimes (incorrectly) called sand fleas, are tiny, soft-shelled crustaceans that burrow into the wet sand along the shoreline. You'll spot them as the waves recede, leaving behind bubbling, V-shaped patches in the sand. Completely harmless, these intriguing creatures are fun to observe and are even considered excellent bait for fishing popular game fish like pompano.

Their small size, quick movements, and unique appearance make catching mole crabs an engaging and educational activity, especially for kids.

Mole crabs can't dig in dry sand; so gently toss the wet sand onto the bank to search for mole crabs.

How to Catch Mole Crabs

You don’t need any special tools or skills to catch mole crabs. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to get you started during your Beach Colony adventure:

1. Head to the Shoreline

The best time to catch mole crabs is early spring mornings, within a few hours of sunrise. Mole crabs tend to be most active around that time. So, head to the shoreline on a day when the Gulf is calmly lapping on the shore.

2. Bring a Small Container or Net (or just use your hands!)

A small bucket or net can make it easier to catch and observe mole crabs. However, many people simply use their hands to scoop up these quick little critters.

3. Watch the Waves

Mole crabs burrow after being swept onto the shore by the surf; so watch the area of wet sand created by the incoming waves. As the mole crabs are flung on the beach, you will see them either dash back to the surf or begin to dig immediately. When they run and dig they leave little "V" shaped patterns in the wet sand behind them.

4. Scoop Quickly but Gently

Once you spot a group of V shaped patterns and bubbles, quickly scoop the sand beneath before the mole crabs burrow deeper. Be gentle to avoid harming the crabs. If you are using your hands, scoop a handful of wet sand and throw it gently onto the dry sand. Mole crabs can't dig through dry sand. Gently sift through the wet sand looking for little white lumps. Those lumps with legs will be your prized mole crabs.

5. Observe and Release

Place the crabs in your bucket for observation. Watch their fascinating movements, then release them back into the wild to ensure the ecosystem stays healthy.

6. Bonus Tip for Anglers

Heading out for a fishing trip during your Beach Colony stay? Use your mole crab catch as natural bait to reel in pompano and other fish common to the Gulf waters.

Early spring mornings are the best time to hunt for mole crabs.

Why The Beach Colony Is Perfect for Mole Crab Catching

Perdido Key’s Beach Colony condos offer access to a long, private stretch of beach, ensuring there’s plenty of room to explore without feeling crowded. Unlike busy public beaches, you'll have the space and tranquility to enjoy mole crab catching to your heart’s content.

Staying at Beach Colony also means you can take advantage of luxurious accommodations while being just steps away from the Gulf’s inviting waters. After a fun-filled day on the sand, retreat to your condo for some well-deserved relaxation.

Be sure to release your catch after you have a chance to inspect and admire it. Mole crabs are a part of the delicate ecosystem along Coastal Florida and Alabama.

Make This Experience Part of Your Beach Escape

Mole crab catching is just one of the many ways you can create lasting memories during your stay at Perdido Key’s Beach Colony. Whether you’re teaching your kids about marine life, looking for unique bait to enhance your fishing trip, or simply enjoying the thrill of discovering these tiny creatures, this activity is the perfect addition to your beach adventure.

The very best way to enjoy the beach is always from the comfort of a beach chair and umbrella. Whether you plan to enjoy watiching children catching mole crabs, or just sitting along the water's edge; our beach chairs are your goto spot for relaxation at the Beach Colony resort in Perdido Key. Reserve your beach chairs at the Beach Colony today.