KENNEBUNKPORT FISHING FIELD GUIDE
Tiny Claws, Big Memories: Dockside Crabbing for Kids in Kennebunkport
A 30-minute, kids-only dockside crabbing session at Camp Nonantum—limited to six children per outing—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Tiny Claws, Big Memories: Dockside Crabbing for Kids in Kennebunkport.
Perched on the water at Camp Nonantum, Crabbing for Kids condenses summer shoreline magic into a brisk, supervised dockside ritual: children gather, nets slip into the river, and anticipation builds until a small tug reveals a scuttling prize. It’s equal parts hands-on discovery and pure vacation fun, led by friendly staff who help kids admire each catch before gently returning it to the water.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A Compact, Joyful Tradition
In a concise 30-minute format, this dockside activity reduces the mysteries of the tidal world to a few thrilling pulls on a net—cheers, squeals and repeated ‘Look what I got!’ moments make it a signature Camp Nonantum experience.
Kids Learn By Doing
Children are invited to drop nets, feel for a tug and lift their finds to the dock for a supervised, close-up look before every crab is released back into the river—an immediate lesson in observation and stewardship.
Small Groups, Close Supervision
Sessions are kept intentionally small and supervised; life vests are provided and staff remain on the dock throughout, ensuring the activity is both safe and accessible for young participants.
What the day feels like
What the Experience Feels Like
Crabbing for Kids moves fast: gather at Camp Nonantum, walk the short stretch to the dock, then take turns lowering nets and waiting for that tiny tug. There’s a cadence to the session—anticipation, discovery, a moment of cheering—and every crab is handled briefly under staff guidance and released, leaving a string of bright, memorable snapshots from the water’s edge.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits—and who should sit this one out.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Light, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes that can handle a dockside stroll; the operator provides life vests for participants.
Expect close staff supervision on the dock and mandatory life vests provided for all child participants.
Sessions are intentionally small—limited to six children—to maintain safety and a hands-on learning environment.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is a session?
Each crabbing session lasts 30 minutes.
Who can participate?
The activity is for kids only; parents are welcome to assist but should not register as participants.
Where do we meet?
Participants meet at Camp Nonantum before heading down to the dock for the activity.
Are life vests provided?
Yes—life vests are provided for all participants and staff supervise the session on the dock.
How many children are allowed per session?
Space is limited to six children per session for safety.
What happens to the crabs after they're caught?
Each crab is briefly admired and then released back into the river.