Crab Grabber

"Alligators Outnumbering Blue Point Crabs"
------Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge------

What is a crabbing enthusiast "gonna" do? Simple! Find another crabbing location,,,,That is just what Crab Grabbers David L. and his wife; Janice, did recently. Their ultimate location was located in Southern Terrebone Parish near the small community of Cocodrie, Louisiana. According to CG's David and Janice, the day was very peaceful and rewarding without alligators constantly stealing their bait and "Crab Grabbers". When all was said and done, the final catch of medium and large "Blue Pointers" for the day exceeded their expectations. Note: Crab Grabber Family has received information that Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge will be closed from September 4 thru September 10, 2024 until noon each day for licensed Alligator Hunters. Hope they limit out each day...

A Cajun Father and Son---
A Truly "Gold Medal Team"

On a recent trip to Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge located in Southern Cameron Parish with my wife; CG Vanessa, we observed a beautiful heart warming sight of a Dad and his young son cast netting for white shrimp on the refuge. Naturally, we just had to visit with them. They were from LeBlanc, Louisiana and introduced themselves as Josh and Jaxon S. When asked if they were successful catching Blue Point Crabs, a "BIG" smile came over both of their faces. Future Crab Grabber Josh immediately opened his ice chest to show off their catch of the day. Meanwhile, Jaxon was throwing his three (3) foot cast net when he caught a small alligator. After releasing the "Gator", CG Jaxon went back to having fun throwing his cast net with extreme precision. Note: Both of them showed us the dozens of medium and large "Blue Pointers" the duo had success catching. Note: CG Jaxon stated that he was entering the second grade at LeBlanc Elementary School and was very excited to return to school for the 2024/2025 school year. Jaxon's father gave me a big smile showing how proud he was of his " little crabbing buddy".

"Crab Grabbers are Hanging Proud"

The Crab Grabber Family recently received the attached photograph from Crab Grabber Dennis V. who currently resides in Erie, Pennsylvania. CG Dennis and his wife; Frances, visited South Louisiana last Fall to spend time with their granddaughter in Lafayette, Louisiana for several months. Upon a visit with yours truly; CG Odis, he inquired about teaching him how to forge a knife from a railroad spike. Being displayed in the attached photograph is the Crab Grabber he received and the two(2) knives we forged together. Note: CG Dennis was so impressed with learning a little about blacksmithing that he purchased an anvil, forge, and several blacksmith hammers and tongs upon returning home in Erie, PA.

"There Are Good People in This World"

On a recent crabbing trip with my wife; CG Vanessa, to our favorite crabbing spot at Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge, an enormous alligator secretly stole a prototype Crab Grabber. So happened, Crab Grabber Robert M. (in photograph) observed this rude predator stealing the proposed prototype Crab Grabber. The following week, we returned to the same location; unofficially we call Pier 82, to be approached by CG Robert holding the wooden stick that he had personally removed from the same large eight foot alligator that had orginally stole it. He stated that he saw the orange stick floating behind the swimming alligator and "politely" retrieved it from this monster "Predator". Note: Thank you CG Robert M. from everyone in the Crab Grabber Family.

Crabbing?...Oops! Alligators "R" Here!

On May 14, 2024, yours truly; CG Odis L, attempted to catch a dozen or so Blue Point Crabs at my favorite crabbing location at Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge. After four (4) long tortious hours and a constant struggle to keep discouraging these extreme very large "Louisiana Alligators" (aka " Louisiana Predators") from stealing my crab bait and Crab Grabber's. Finally, I called it a day after succumbing to two (2) stolen Crab Grabbers to these relentless creatures. Another Crab Grabber Member notified me yesterday along with her husband tried crabbing at Rutherford Beach located in lower Cameron Parish. Same story! In despair, they also departed and return to their home with a dozen "Blue Pointers" to Lafayette, LA because of these unwelcomed "Louisiana Predators". Heaven forbids that an individual or young child do not get mauled by one these hungry and ferocious "Louisiana Predators". My total catch was three (3) dozen mostly small "Blue Pointers". Note: Definitely, Not a Good Job......

Boston, Massachusetts Enjoying Crabbing at Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge......

On May 2, 2024, Crab Grabber Carrie G; from Boston, MA, along with her Louisiana cousin; Crab Grabber Team Member David L, set out to enjoy a relaxing couple of hours crabbing at Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge located near Grand Chenier, Louisiana. CG Carrie's endevor resulted not only catching Blue Point Crabs but also observing Louisiana's wildlife such as alligators and Brown Pelicans. More importantly, meeting and visiting with other Louisiana Cajuns that were also enjoying their favorite past time "crabbing". CG Carrie's most memorable moment was the Cajun Style Crab Boil returning from her crabbing excursion with her family. Note: Let us; Louisiana Cajuns, welcome her back to Louisiana soon to go crabbing again....

Crabbing Trip March 7, 2024
Three Words---"Pitiful"-"Pitiful"-"Pitiful"

My wife; CG Vanessa and myself CG Odis, decided to enjoy a day to travel to our favorite crabbing hotspot for three(3) or four(4) dozens of Blue Point crabs which is located near Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge. The day was absolutely beautiful for us to enjoy for what we cherish doing best- crabbing! However, the "Blue Pointers" were either on vacation or decided to sleep in...After three(3) hours crabbing at our old favorite and usually successful crabbing hole (unofficially we named Pier 82), we managed to put only "ONE" lonely 'Blue Pointer' in our crab bucket. Upon giving up, we could only in our heart give this poor crustacean a big cajun smile and a "ledendary reprieve" back into the water from where he came! Note: Even the ledgendary "Crab Grabbers" were not sufficient to entice these reclusive "Blue Pointers" for a delicious meal of tasty chicken.....

Louisiana "Cajuns" Have Many Talents....

The "Acadians of South Louisiana" all have many talents. Fortunately, some promote, develop, and enhance these talents while others fail to showcase them. This is definitely not the case regarding CG Janice L. of Abbeville, Louisiana. Upon returning from a very successful crabbing trip to Rockefeller Wildlife Reserve with her husband; CG David L., CG Janice was so impressed with all the various colorations of the Blue Point crabs that she immediately went to painting what she was observing. The attached painting is the end result after twenty-six (26) hours at the easel. Using oils as her painting media and a canvas measuring thirty-six (36) by thirty (30) inches, a genuine masterpiece was definitely created. Note: This absolutely beautiful oil painting is currently being displayed in their Abbeville, Louisiana Cajun bed and breakfast named; how appropriately, "The Cajun Getaway"......

"ESTATE SALE TREASURE FOUND"

As Gomer Pile always exclaimed, "Surprise-Surprise-Surprise"! While attending a recent estate sale in Abbeville, Louisiana, my eyes lit up and a big smile came over my face finding these well used "Matched Set" of old "Crab Grabbers" with their original handmade personalized burlap sack. These "Crab Grabbers" were all made with Alder wood from trees that are grown and harvested in Alaska and the Northwest United States.. This set of "Crab Grabbers" were made with brass swivels in the beginning for a very short period of time. Note: The burlap sacks were handmade by yours truly; CG Odis L., which were available for only three (3) years.

"Dutch Harbor Style Crabbing in South Louisiana"

On Wednesday, October 25, 2023, yours truly CG Odis L. was invited to join my neighbor; CG Glenn B., on a crabbing excursion of a different level. (This was the checking of his crab traps.) With just a handful of traps to check, the surprise and adventure was excruciating! Needless to say, the work (aka fun) of pulling these traps from sixteen (16) feet of water by hand and removing "VERY FEISTY" humongous "Blue Pointers" who did not want to be harassed by two old Crab Grabbers. Honestly, this learning experience was fun; must admit. Note: CG Glenn stated that a big "Cajun Style Crab Boil" with his entire family was on the agenda. Yes, my wife and myself were invited to join in on the fun and laughter. Thank you CG Glenn B. for the excitement both during and after our crabbing trip. Definitely, "wanna" do it again.

Roadside Crabbing with "Crab Grabbers"

On September 6, 2023, yours truly; Odis L, foolishly attempted to catch a couple dozen of Blue Point Crabs at 12:00 noon with the temperature of 102 degrees. In less than an hour, three (3) dozen large and medium Blue Pointers were in my ice chest. (Using only two (2) "Crab Grabbers" and my favorite bait....Mr. Chicken.) The action was fast and furious catching three and four Blue Pointers at a time. (Numerous small and medium Blue Pointers were returned back into the water) Calling it a day definitely made it hard to leave with this kind of crabbing. Note: All this action was on the side of the road on Louisiana Highway 82.

Alligator Season 2023 at Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge

The "Crab Grabber Family" has just been informed that the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has announced the alligator control harvest for 2023. Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge will be closed to the public for all recreational activities until 12:00 noon each day between September 6, 2023 through September 15, 2023. At that time, all outdoorsman will be permitted to utilize the refuge for all crabbing, sh*****ng, fishing and viewing nature from noon until official sunset. Note: Recommend everyone enjoying this facility to confirm all dates and official times before going.

"Louisiana Law" Sergeant "Mike" Hebert, LDWF
"Animal Planet Television Series"

Yours truly; CG Odis L. along with my wife; CG Vanessa, embarked on a one day visit to Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge near Grand Chenier, Louisiana. The sole purpose was to see first hand how the current absence of rainfall over the last sixty (60) days and the extreme high record temperatures are effecting recreational crabbing and fishing on the reserve. One word can best describe what we observed, "SAD". Mother nature is definitely at her worse. After traveling the entire length of Price Lake Road on the refuge, our observations were "heart breaking". Miles of dead crabs and fish were prevalent everywhere. Fortunately by chance, we stopped to introduce ourselves to a wildlife enforcement agent checking licenses of the few outdoorsman taking advantage what the refuge has to offer. His name is Sgt. Mike Hebert (In photograph) whom we instantly recognized as being seen numerous times on the television documentary, "Louisiana Law". The demeaner in his voice said it all of what we observed. Note: Thank you Sgt. Hebert for your time to pose with my wife for a quick photograph. We wish to thank you and everyone associated with the refuge for all they do from everyone of us that enjoy this little piece of heaven on earth. From the entire "Crab Grabber Family" be careful and safe to you and to all of your fellow wildlife enforcement agents.

Crabbing is "Hot" at Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge in More Ways Than One

On Wednesday August 2, 2023, yours truly; CG Odis L., along with my wife; CG Vanessa L., attempted to try our luck catching a dozen or so of Blue Point Crabs at our favorite crabbing grounds. The ambient air temperature was nothing short of "HOT" and very humid. Using only six (6) "Crab Grabbers" and chicken as bait, our goal of eighteen (18) Blue Pointers were caught in 15 minutes after placing our first baited "Crab Grabber" in the canal. Upon asking my wife if she was ready to go she exclaimed under no uncertain terms, "NO". After reaching forty-six (46) Blue Pointers in an hour and fifteen minutes, we decided to call it an end to a beautiful day crabbing and sharing each other's laughter. Note: CG Vanessa says if one attempts to go crabbing to be sure to bring the "AC" (air conditioner). Also, just had to insert a photograph of the infamous Superior Canal Bridge recently reopened to the public.

"Good News and Bad News"

The entire "Crab Grabber Family" is pleased to announce the reopening of the Superior Canal Bridge on Louisiana Highway 82 allowing the trip to Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge a whole lot faster. Now, the bad news....100 degree plus temperatures making crabbing miserable with no trees in sight for shade. However, there are brave individuals willing to make this trek! Many thanks goes out to CG's David and Leslie A. for sending this photograph of their recent crabbing outing at Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge. CG David informed the "Crab Grabber Family" that a total of 100 medium and large crabs were caught using chicken as bait. Along with these beautiful crabs, 10 pounds of shrimp and 2 Red fish were also caught. (and we did not get an invite to dinner-- imagine that). Thanks again CG's David and Leslie for the crabbing report. Note: Remember, signing in and signing out is no longer required at Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge.

UPDATE---"Crab Grabber" Facebook Post dated May 6, 2023
"Honoring Navy Veteran Brandon J. Giroir"

The attached photographs are that of Marine Vessel "Brandon John" recently observed transporting a NASA Space Rocket.(Because of security reasons, the origin and final destination can not be revealed). Such an honor for the "Brandon John" to transport our nations future space rocket. Note: The "Crab Grabber Family" organization is proud to feature marine vessel "Brandon John" in providing for all Americans the privilege's to be able to take our children and family members safely on a fun filled crabbing outing....

Superior Canal Bridge Reopened on Louisiana Highway 82

---"Great News"--- On July 9, 2023, the Cameron Parish OHSEP announced the reopening of the Superior Canal Bridge thus allowing all of Louisiana's outdoorsman vehicle passage to Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge and points beyond. The "Crab Grabber Family" wishes to thank all of the Louisiana Department of Transportation employees and the hard working individuals braving record high temperatures and high humidity who made this reopening happen in record time. Note: Also, we wish to thank all of our elected state and especially Cameron Parish officials for keeping our roadways safe to travel for all of our families...

It Is Official- No More Signing In or Out

This morning July 6, 2023, the "Crab Grabber Family" organization received an e-mail from Louisiana State Representative "Beau" Beaullieu; District 48, that the "Signing In /Out" requirement at Rockefeller and Marsh Island Wildlife Refuges is no longer required. Great news indeed. Representative "Beau" stated that he confirmed this with the LDWF (Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries). Note: Thank you Representative "Beau" for getting this practice reverse...

Superior Canal Bridge on LA Hwy 82

At 4:00 PM on June 27, 2023, the Cameron Parish OHSEP (Office of Homeland Security Emergency Preparedness) announced the anticipated reopening of the Superior Canal Bridge on Louisiana Highway 82 with a projected reopening date to be in the middle of July, 2023. This is fantastic news to all of Louisiana Outdoorsman and business owners serving these individuals utilizing Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge. Note: The "Crab Grabber Family" ask everyone to be understanding if circumstances beyond anyone's control such as inclement weather should delay this projected reopening date.

A "No Geaux" to Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge on LA Hwy 82 West

The "Crab Grabber Family" has been advised that the Superior Canal Bridge on Louisiana Highway 82 West is indefinitely "closed" to all motorized traffic until further notice. Currently, the only vehicle means to get to Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge from Kaplan, LA is via Louisiana Highway 14 West to Holmwood, LA , then South on Louisiana Highway 27 to Louisiana Highway 82 East in Cameron, LA. Note: As Crab Grabber Family Member James D. of Lake Charles, LA stated, "ya might had better pack a lunch" taking that route to the refuge.

"CRABBING on ROCKEFELLER WILDLIFE REFUGE"

The "Crab Grabber Crabbing Family" has been receiving numerous crabbing reports of many limits of Blue Point Crabs being harvested by a large number of families. That is, if one could find time waiting in long lines with other water crafts to launch their boat. The end results were worth the wait. As one can see in the attached photograph (submitted by CG's Monica and Ray L.) "Blue Pointers" literally chewing the wood on their water craft (pirogue) to get inside to their ice chest by way of "Crab Grabbers". (No bait was required ) Note: On a serious side, the "Crab Grabber Family" ask all Americans to remember why Memorial Day is celebrated. Yours truly lost several fellow soldiers serving and fighting in Viet Nam. May God bless them all and their loved ones...

"NO MORE SIGNING IN/SIGNING OUT"

Great news for everyone who utilizes Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge and Marsh Island Wildlife Refuge. The "Crab Grabber Family" has just been notified that the regulation of "Signing In /Signing Out" at these two refuges has been rescinded as advised by Louisiana State Representative Beaullieu yesterday. Note: Please remember to do your part keeping all our refuge's clean. As in the Lafayette Parish Litter Free commercial, the young lady tells her Father, "Good Job". Indeed, a "Good Job"......

"Honoring Navy Veteran Brandon J. Giroir"

The entire "Crab Grabber Family" is honored to recognize CG Brandon John Giroir from Houma, Louisiana who lost his battle with Covid 19 a little over a year ago. Brandon was a highly decorated US Navy Veteran, married and proud father of two (2) beautiful children. We are extremely proud to announce in his memory a newly commissioned marine vessel owned by "Marquette Transportation Company" was christen in Larose, Louisiana last week "Brandon John" (In photographs). Brandon's brother; CG Corey G., is a long time ship captain with Marquette Transportation and in respect to Corey named their new vessel after his brother, Brandon. Note: The "Crab Grabber Family ask if you observe the "Brandon John" that you give it a big Cajun wave and a thumbs up for CG Brandon is looking down upon you with a big smile.

"Crab Grabber" Answers Your Question
"Full Versus an Empty" Blue Point Crab

The "Crab Grabber Crabbing Team" is frequently asked the question as to the best way to determine if a Blue Point Crab is full of meat or not. Worry no more! The dirty crab on the left is traditionally a "full crab" and while a pristine clean white crab is on the "empty" side. In the photograph, the dirty looking crab on the left has been roaming Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge a long time searching and munching on a tasty bait attached to a "Crab Grabber" line. The "pristine and pretty" crab on the right has been making itself pretty by molting its older, outer shell and wearing its new "set of duds". This crab hasn't spent much time or effort looking for anything to consume to gain weight. In other words, it has not gotten "fat" yet. Note: According to the "Crab Grabber" official dictionary, a dirty crab is a "happy" crab and a clean crab with "new duds" is a "party" crab.

It's "Crabbing Time" with "Crab Grabbers"

Attention all Crab Grabber Family members and friends. Reports are coming into Crab Grabber Headquarters that crabbing for Blue Point Crabs is getting very active. Large numbers and sizes are being recreationally harvested at Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge for that very special family and friends crab boil. Recommend everyone to get your Crab Grabbers ready for the 2023 crabbing season which is upon us. Note: The "Crab Grabber" delivery truck is always getting a good workout with so many deliveries. Step aside "Idaho Potato Truck" for old "Rusty" is burning rubber on all of Louisiana highways.