How to Attach Runners to a Lobster Trap

You can attach runners to a lobster trap in less than 10 minutes.

Lobster trap runners are attached to the underside of a lobster trap. They're meant to protect the bottom of the boat's interior, the bottom of the trap itself and the lobster's claws. The runners can be made out of any material, but the most common material used is hardwood, such as oak. Some jurisdictions restrict the dimensions of the runners, so consult your state fisheries department to determine the appropriate runners to use.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• 2 oak 4-by-1-inch boards
• Saw
• Air-powered staple gun
• 16 1/2-inch staples

Instructions

1. Measure the length of the lobster trap. Cut the boards to this length.

2. Set the boards on a flat surface. Place the lobster trap on top of them.

3. Move the boards so each is flush with a long side of the lobster trap.

4. Staple a runner to the lobster trap, starting at one end and using two staples side-by-side. Staple over the wire if the trap is made of wire or through the wood bottom planks if the trap is made of wood. Continue stapling along the runner, with pairs of staples side-by-side and spaced equally. Put a pair of staples into the opposite end of the runner.

5. Repeat Step 4 with the other runner along the other long side of the lobster trap.

References

• Department of Maine Resources: Trap Runners
• YouTube: How to Build a Lobster Trap - 06 Stapling Runners