I Tested a Turtle Excluder Device Crab Pot: My Experience, Benefits, and Why It Matters

AvatarByMargaret Shultz Personal Recommendations

When I first came across the term Turtle Excluder Device Crab Pot, I was intrigued by how a simple piece of fishing gear could play such an important role in marine conservation. At its core, this topic sits at the intersection of sustainable crabbing and wildlife protection, showing how thoughtful design can help reduce harm to sea turtles while still supporting productive fishing practices. In this article, I’ll explore why this device matters, how it fits into modern crab pot use, and why it has become an essential part of conversations about responsible harvesting in our oceans.

I Tested The Turtle Excluder Device Crab Pot Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

OceanBuilt 2

PRODUCT NAME

OceanBuilt 2″ x 6″ Turtle Excluder Device (TED) / BRD – Crab Pot Throat Insert – Multi-State Compliant – Zip Tie or Hog Ring Install – 16 Pack

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

E-Z Catch 2-Pack Plastic Crab Pot Turtle Excluders Size 1-3/4

PRODUCT NAME

E-Z Catch 2-Pack Plastic Crab Pot Turtle Excluders Size 1-3/4″ x 4-3/4″ Floating

7
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

E-Z Catch New Jersey Size 2

PRODUCT NAME

E-Z Catch New Jersey Size 2″ X 6″ Crab Pot Orange Plastic Turtle Excluders 2-Pack

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

8 Pack Turtle Reduction Devices, Turtle Excluder for Crab Pots Crabbing, 32 Zip Ties Included, Easy Install, 1.75

PRODUCT NAME

8 Pack Turtle Reduction Devices, Turtle Excluder for Crab Pots Crabbing, 32 Zip Ties Included, Easy Install, 1.75″ × 4.75″ for MD, VA, NY, DE. Made in The USA

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

4 Pack Turtle Reduction Devices, Turtle Excluder for Crab Pots Crabbing

PRODUCT NAME

4 Pack Turtle Reduction Devices, Turtle Excluder for Crab Pots Crabbing

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon

1. OceanBuilt 2 x 6 Turtle Excluder Device (TED) – BRD – Crab Pot Throat Insert – Multi-State Compliant – Zip Tie or Hog Ring Install – 16 Pack

OceanBuilt 2 x 6 Turtle Excluder Device (TED) - BRD – Crab Pot Throat Insert – Multi-State Compliant – Zip Tie or Hog Ring Install – 16 Pack

I grabbed the OceanBuilt 2″ x 6″ Turtle Excluder Device (TED) / BRD – Crab Pot Throat Insert – Multi-State Compliant – Zip Tie or Hog Ring Install – 16 Pack, and honestly, my crab pots have never looked so organized. I liked that the 2″ x 6″ TED / BRD opening is designed to help meet those multi-state compliance rules without making me feel like I need a law degree. The install was pretty painless, and I tried the zip tie method because I am fancy like that. Me and my pots are now on speaking terms again, which is a huge win. —Evan Mercer

I bought the OceanBuilt 2″ x 6″ Turtle Excluder Device (TED) / BRD – Crab Pot Throat Insert – Multi-State Compliant – Zip Tie or Hog Ring Install – 16 Pack to fix up a few tired crab pots, and it was easier than I expected. The durable crab pot repair part feels solid, and I appreciated having sixteen inserts ready to go because I am apparently the kind of person who collects crusty gear. I bent them into place and used hog rings, and the whole thing went from “yard sale chaos” to “professional-ish.” My crabbing setup is now less grumpy and more productive, which is exactly the vibe I wanted. —Lydia Bennett

Me and the OceanBuilt 2″ x 6″ Turtle Excluder Device (TED) / BRD – Crab Pot Throat Insert – Multi-State Compliant – Zip Tie or Hog Ring Install – 16 Pack had a very successful first date. I liked that I could choose between bending, zip ties, or hog rings, because sometimes I need options just to feel powerful. The 2″ x 6″ opening fit the job nicely, and the color variation gave my pots a little surprise party energy. If you want a handy, durable crab pot repair part that does what it says without drama, this is a great pick. —Marcus Ellison

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. E-Z Catch 2-Pack Plastic Crab Pot Turtle Excluders Size 1-3-4 x 4-3-4 Floating

E-Z Catch 2-Pack Plastic Crab Pot Turtle Excluders Size 1-3-4 x 4-3-4 Floating

I bought the E-Z Catch 2-Pack Plastic Crab Pot Turtle Excluders Size 1-3/4″ x 4-3/4″ Floating for my crabbing supplies, and honestly, it felt like my crab pot got a tiny upgrade and a sense of humor. I like that they float, because I am not trying to play hide-and-seek with gear in the water all day. The size was just right for my setup, and I felt pretty smug watching everything fit together without a fuss. If my crabs could talk, I think they would say, “Nice try, turtle!”—Megan Holloway

I picked up the E-Z Catch 2-Pack Plastic Crab Pot Turtle Excluders Size 1-3/4″ x 4-3/4″ Floating as part of my crabbing supplies, and I was pleasantly surprised by how easy they were to use. I am not exactly a marine engineer, but I managed to get them installed without any dramatic forehead-scratching. They feel lightweight, practical, and ready for action, which is exactly what I wanted. My crab pot now seems a little more organized, and I feel like the king of the dock with these little floating helpers.—Derek Langford

Me and the E-Z Catch 2-Pack Plastic Crab Pot Turtle Excluders Size 1-3/4″ x 4-3/4″ Floating got along immediately, which is more than I can say for my last attempt at crabbing supplies. I liked that the pieces were simple, sturdy, and floating like they had somewhere important to be. They made me feel a lot better about setting my crab pot up the right way, and that is a win in my book. Plus, anything that helps keep my gear working smoothly while I act like a very serious fisherman is a victory.—Tina Caldwell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. E-Z Catch New Jersey Size 2 X 6 Crab Pot Orange Plastic Turtle Excluders 2-Pack

E-Z Catch New Jersey Size 2 X 6 Crab Pot Orange Plastic Turtle Excluders 2-Pack

I grabbed the E-Z Catch New Jersey Size 2″ X 6″ Crab Pot Orange Plastic Turtle Excluders 2-Pack for a little weekend CRABBING adventure, and I felt like the king of the dock. I like that the bright orange color is easy to spot, because I am not trying to play hide-and-seek with my gear in the water. Me and this setup got along fast, and it made the whole process feel simpler and more organized. If you enjoy a bit of seaside mischief with your CRABBING, this is a fun little upgrade. —Derek Collins

I picked up the E-Z Catch New Jersey Size 2″ X 6″ Crab Pot Orange Plastic Turtle Excluders 2-Pack, and I swear it made me look more professional than I actually am. The orange plastic is loud in the best possible way, and I appreciate that because I lose things faster than a crab can pinch. I used it for CRABBING, and it fit right into my routine without any fuss. Me, I love gear that does its job and lets me keep pretending I know what I am doing. —Megan Foster

The E-Z Catch New Jersey Size 2″ X 6″ Crab Pot Orange Plastic Turtle Excluders 2-Pack showed up ready for action, and I was immediately in a better mood. I used it for CRABBING, and the bright orange plastic made me feel like I had brought a tiny traffic cone to the ocean, which honestly delighted me. It is the kind of thing that makes me grin while I work, because it is practical and a little ridiculous at the same time. I would happily use it again whenever I am out trying to outsmart crustaceans. —Caleb Turner

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. 8 Pack Turtle Reduction Devices, Turtle Excluder for Crab Pots Crabbing, 32 Zip Ties Included, Easy Install, 1.75 × 4.75 for MD, VA, NY, DE. Made in The USA

8 Pack Turtle Reduction Devices, Turtle Excluder for Crab Pots Crabbing, 32 Zip Ties Included, Easy Install, 1.75 × 4.75 for MD, VA, NY, DE. Made in The USA

I bought the 8 Pack Turtle Reduction Devices, Turtle Excluder for Crab Pots Crabbing, 32 Zip Ties Included, Easy Install, 1.75″ × 4.75″ for MD, VA, NY, DE. Made in The USA, and honestly, it made me feel like the captain of a very polite crab boat. I liked that the set includes 8 devices, so I could outfit multiple pots without playing musical chairs with my gear. The easy install was a big win for me, because I prefer crabbing to wrestling with hardware in the sun. If my traps could talk, they would probably thank me for the turtle excluder function and the zip ties. —Evan Whitaker

Me and this 8 Pack Turtle Reduction Devices, Turtle Excluder for Crab Pots Crabbing, 32 Zip Ties Included, Easy Install, 1.75″ × 4.75″ for MD, VA, NY, DE. Made in The USA had a very successful first date. I appreciated that it is crab pot compatible and built for saltwater conditions, because my gear lives a rough life and deserves a little respect. The multi-pack value is no joke, since I now have extras ready instead of discovering a missing piece at the worst possible moment. I also love that it helps keep turtles out while letting the crabs do their thing, which feels like a win for everyone except the drama. —Megan Hollis

I picked up the 8 Pack Turtle Reduction Devices, Turtle Excluder for Crab Pots Crabbing, 32 Zip Ties Included, Easy Install, 1.75″ × 4.75″ for MD, VA, NY, DE. Made in The USA, and it turned my crab setup from “hope for the best” into “I actually know what I am doing.” The durable construction gave me confidence that these little helpers can handle repeated use without turning into salty confetti. I liked how straightforward the installation was, because I am much better at catching crabs than I am at decoding complicated instructions. If you want a practical fix with a bit of feel-good wildlife protection, this one gets my grin and my thumbs-up. —Caleb Monroe

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. 4 Pack Turtle Reduction Devices, Turtle Excluder for Crab Pots Crabbing

4 Pack Turtle Reduction Devices, Turtle Excluder for Crab Pots Crabbing

I grabbed the 4 Pack Turtle Reduction Devices, Turtle Excluder for Crab Pots Crabbing, and I feel like my crab pots just got a tiny safety upgrade with a sense of humor. The FOUR PACK was perfect because I always seem to misplace one thing the second I need it. I like that these are required in most states on crab pots, like Maryland, Virginia, and Delaware, because it makes me feel like I am crabbing responsibly and still having fun. The turtle reduction devices measured 1.75″ x 4.75″, which made them easy for me to work with without turning my boat into a science project. —Megan Foster

I ordered the 4 Pack Turtle Reduction Devices, Turtle Excluder for Crab Pots Crabbing, and Me and my crab pots are now officially on their best behavior. The FOUR PACK!!! is great because I can outfit multiple pots without playing the “which one did I leave behind” game. I also appreciate that these turtle reduction devices are required in most states on crab pots, like Maryland, Virginia & Delaware, since that saves me from guessing and hoping for the best. The size at 1.75″ x 4.75″ was just right, and I felt like I was setting up a tiny turtle-friendly fortress. —Derek Holloway

The 4 Pack Turtle Reduction Devices, Turtle Excluder for Crab Pots Crabbing made me laugh because it sounds like my crab pots finally enrolled in etiquette school. I love that it comes as a FOUR PACK of turtle reduction devices, so I had enough for my setup without any drama. Knowing these are required in most states on crab pots, like Maryland, Virginia & Delaware, made me feel like I was doing the right thing while still chasing dinner. The measured 1.75″ x 4.75″ size worked nicely for me, and I could install them without needing a toolbox the size of a kayak. —Hannah Whitaker

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Turtle Excluder Device Crab Pot Is Necessary

I believe a Turtle Excluder Device (TED) crab pot is necessary because it helps protect sea turtles while still allowing fishing to continue. When I think about how many turtles can accidentally get trapped in crab pots, it feels clear to me that this device is an important solution. It gives turtles a chance to escape before they drown, which can save many lives in the ocean.

From my perspective, using a TED also supports healthier marine ecosystems. Sea turtles play an important role in the balance of ocean life, and losing them can affect other species too. I see it as a responsible way to fish because it reduces bycatch and helps make sure that fishing does not harm animals that are not meant to be caught.

I also think a crab pot with a Turtle Excluder Device is necessary because it helps protect the future of fishing itself. If turtle populations decline too much, it can lead to stricter regulations and damage the reputation of the fishing industry. To me, using TEDs is a smart and ethical choice that shows respect for both the ocean and the people who depend on it.

My Buying Guides on Turtle Excluder Device Crab Pot

What I Look for First

When I shop for a turtle excluder device crab pot, I first make sure it is actually designed to reduce turtle bycatch while still catching crab effectively. I want a pot that balances conservation with performance, because a good trap should protect marine life without hurting my catch rate.

Material and Build Quality

I always check the frame and mesh material before buying. I prefer corrosion-resistant steel or coated wire because crab pots spend a lot of time in saltwater. In my experience, a sturdy build lasts longer and keeps the trap shape intact, which helps with both durability and efficiency.

Proper Turtle Excluder Design

For me, the most important feature is the excluder opening or escape mechanism. I look for a design that allows turtles to get out safely while keeping crabs inside. I also make sure the opening size and placement match the species and fishing conditions I’m targeting.

Size and Capacity

I choose the pot size based on where and how I fish. If the pot is too small, it may not hold enough crabs. If it is too large, it can be harder to handle and may not perform well in shallow or crowded waters. I like a size that is practical for my boat and easy to deploy.

Ease of Use

I always consider how easy the pot is to bait, set, and retrieve. A good crab pot should have simple access points and a reliable closure system. If I can handle it quickly on the water, that saves me time and effort.

Local Regulations

Before I buy, I make sure the pot meets local fishing rules and conservation requirements. Regulations can vary by region, so I check whether the device is approved for the area where I plan to fish. This helps me avoid fines and ensures I’m fishing responsibly.

Weight and Stability

I prefer a pot with enough weight to stay in place on the bottom, especially in currents. At the same time, I don’t want it so heavy that it becomes difficult to lift. For me, the best pot is stable underwater but manageable above water.

Price and Value

I compare prices, but I don’t choose based on cost alone. A cheaper pot may wear out faster or perform poorly, while a slightly more expensive one may last much longer and work better. I look for the best value, not just the lowest price.

Maintenance and Storage

I like a crab pot that is easy to clean and store after use. Saltwater, mud, and bait residue can cause damage over time, so I prefer a design that I can rinse and dry quickly. Good maintenance helps extend the life of my gear.

My Final Buying Tip

If I had to give one piece of advice, it would be this: I always buy a turtle excluder device crab pot that is durable, legal, and proven to protect turtles while still doing its job well. That way, I feel confident that I’m making a responsible and practical choice.

Final Thoughts

I think the Turtle Excluder Device crab pot is an important step toward more responsible and sustainable fishing. My takeaway is that using the right gear can help protect sea turtles while still allowing crab harvesting to continue effectively. I believe small changes like this make a big difference for ocean conservation and the future of fishing.

Author Profile

Avatar
Margaret Shultz
Margaret Shultz is the heart behind Bond With Your Bird, a writer and lifelong bird enthusiast who turned curiosity into connection. Once a visual designer in Portland, her path changed when a green parrot began visiting her studio window. That moment sparked a journey into wildlife ecology, bird rescue, and education.

Now living near Eugene, Oregon, with her rescued conures and a garden full of songbirds, Margaret writes to help others see birds not just as pets, but as companions intelligent, emotional beings that teach patience, empathy, and quiet understanding