How to Use a Sand Flea Rake
The sand flea (Emerita), sometimes known as sea pigs or mole crabs, is a type of crustacean found in sandy beaches. The crustaceans are popular as live bait for saltwater fishing. Though sand fleas can be obtained at many bait shops, they often come with a premium price tag. Save money by using a sand flea rake---a rectangular rake-shaped tool---to collect sand fleas for your next fishing expedition.
Instructions
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1
Take a five-gallon sized bucket and the sand flea rake to the nearest sandy beach during an outgoing tide. If you are unsure of when the tides change, consult a tide calendar for your region or call the local weather service.
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2
Use your hands to scoop six to eight inches of wet sand into the bottom of the bucket.
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3
Go to an area of the beach where the waves move in and out rapidly. For best results, the sandy bottom should be six to 12 inches under water as the waves flow in.
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4
Wait for a wave to come into the shoreline and wash onto the beach. Stand and walk away from the water while the water rushes back out to sea. Drag the sand rake behind you.
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5
Inspect the sand rake once the wave has completely receded and you are standing on dry ground. If there were sand fleas in the area, the rake will have collected them.
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6
Place the sand fleas into the bucket. They will immediately burrow into the sand. Repeat Steps 3 through 5 until you have collected as many sand fleas as you need.
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Tips & Warnings
Sand fleas will survive in the damp sand in your bucket for two to three days if kept cool and out of direct sunlight.
