SMI / Beau Mac Commercial Fishing Gear at Fisheries Supply
Durable, regulation-ready gear for commercial fishermen and serious anglers—including crab and shrimp traps, rope spool winders, and clamming tools—backed by expert support and fast shipping.
Key Takeaways
- Products: SMI & Beau Mac supply traps, pots, rope winders, and clam guns trusted across the Pacific Northwest.
- Design factors: capacity, target species, escape rings, corrosion resistance, and storage efficiency.
- Compliance: Typical rules call for two escape rings (=4¼" ID) on the upper half of crab pots; always check local regulations.
- Service: Large in-stock selection, professional account pricing, and nationwide / international shipping.
Brands & Build Quality
Beau Mac—a family-owned brand serving anglers for over 25 years—is known for durable terminal tackle and accessories used widely on Northwest rivers. See brand background. Their traps and pots feature reinforced welded frames engineered for saltwater use.
SMI complements the line with rugged clamming tools and rope handling equipment often specified by coastal professionals.
Rigging Tools: Rope Winders & Clam Guns
- SMI Rope Spool Winders: The SMI rope spool winder streamlines line handling on deck—supporting efficient retrieval, storage, and redeployment. Look for features like spool capacity, gearing ratio, and corrosion-resistant finishes.
- SMI / Beau Mac Clam Guns: Clam guns (aluminum or stainless barrels, tall handles, and vented tubes) are engineered for efficient razor-clam harvesting on sandy ocean beaches. Independent retailers and manufacturers highlight their durability and long service life.
Kit option: Many crews prefer an SMI rope winder kit to standardize components across boats and reduce setup time.
Traps & Pots for Crab and Shrimp
- Collapsible Crab Traps: Collapsible models maximize deck space on skiffs and small workboats while remaining easy to deploy and stow. Consider hinge durability, coated mesh, and door geometry to maintain catch quotas.
- Regulatory Considerations (Escape Rings & Volume):
- Escape rings commonly must be =4¼" inside diameter and installed on the upper half of the pot (jurisdiction-specific).
- Typical volume limits include a 13 ft³ maximum for certain fisheries (e.g., Puget Sound crab pots).
- Always verify state or tribal rules before fishing.
Expert Recommendations
Our fishing/crabbing gear specialists can help you match Dungeness, shrimp, and other target species with the right pot dimensions, escape ring placement, bait boxes, and rigging—plus storage-saving collapsible options for small boats. We also stock compatible filtration solutions for live bait management.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose between a fixed and a collapsible crab trap?
Fixed traps often deliver slightly higher durability and consistent geometry; collapsible traps save deck space and simplify transport. Match choice to boat size, soak time, and storage constraints.
What escape ring size should I use?
Many jurisdictions require rings =4¼" ID on the upper half of the pot, but rules vary by area and species. Confirm current regulations with your state or local authority before deployment.
Which materials resist corrosion best in saltwater?
Vinyl-coated or stainless frames and PVC-coated mesh help resist corrosion. Rinse gear with fresh water and inspect hinges, doors, and wire ties after each trip.
What makes a good rope winder for commercial use?
Look for stable mounting, adequate spool capacity, sealed bearings, and finish coatings suitable for marine exposure.
Are clam guns better in aluminum or stainless?
Aluminum reduces weight for faster cycles; stainless can increase durability and stiffness. Choose based on substrate, user height, and handling preference