TRUSTED SINCE 1975

Gear Up For Success

Welcome to Ketcham Supply, the ultimate destination for shellfish growers and trap fishermen.

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"Excellent customer service and help. A huge thanks for taking care of an order last minute! Will be doing plenty more business here! A+ all the way!"
Ketcham Supply
Commercial Trap Fishing
Ketcham Supply
Aquaculture
Ketcham Supply
Recreational Traps
Ketcham Supply
Supplying Since 1975
Ketcham Supply
Fast & Reliable Shipping
Ketcham Supply
Commercial Trap Fishing
Ketcham Supply
Aquaculture
Ketcham Supply
Recreational Traps
Ketcham Supply
Supplying Since 1975
Ketcham Supply
Fast & Reliable Shipping
Ketcham Supply
Commercial Trap Fishing
Ketcham Supply
Aquaculture
Ketcham Supply
Recreational Traps
Ketcham Supply
Supplying Since 1975
Ketcham Supply
Fast & Reliable Shipping
Ketcham Supply
Commercial Trap Fishing
Ketcham Supply
Aquaculture
Ketcham Supply
Recreational Traps
Ketcham Supply
Supplying Since 1975
Ketcham Supply
Fast & Reliable Shipping
Ketcham Supply
Commercial Trap Fishing
Ketcham Supply
Aquaculture
Ketcham Supply
Recreational Traps
Ketcham Supply
Supplying Since 1975
Ketcham Supply
Fast & Reliable Shipping
Ketcham Supply
Commercial Trap Fishing
Ketcham Supply
Aquaculture
Ketcham Supply
Recreational Traps
Ketcham Supply
Supplying Since 1975
Ketcham Supply
Fast & Reliable Shipping
Ketcham Supply
Commercial Trap Fishing
Ketcham Supply
Aquaculture
Ketcham Supply
Recreational Traps
Ketcham Supply
Supplying Since 1975
Ketcham Supply
Fast & Reliable Shipping
Ketcham Supply
Commercial Trap Fishing
Ketcham Supply
Aquaculture
Ketcham Supply
Recreational Traps
Ketcham Supply
Supplying Since 1975
Ketcham Supply
Fast & Reliable Shipping

CATEGORIES

Commercial Trap Fishing 76 Products
Commercial Shellfish Aquaculture 83 Products
Recreational Traps 17 Products
Recreational Oyster Aquaculture 5 Products

Bestsellers

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Electric Branding Iron Characters
Electric Branding Iron Characters
$10.50 View
Small Green Crab Trap RECREATIONAL
Small Green Crab Trap
from $49.00 View
Loose Stainless Steel Hog Rings - 14 Gauge COMMERCIAL
Loose Stainless Steel Hog Rings - 14 Gauge
from $49.75 View
Oyster/Shellfish Packaging - Tubular Plastic Netting - 2,000ft Rolls
Oyster/Shellfish Packaging - Tubular Plastic Netting - 2,000ft Rolls
$200.00 View
Our Signature 'YotPot' Recreational Lobster Trap RECREATIONAL
Our Signature 'YotPot' Recreational Lobster Trap
$140.00 View
36" Lobster Trap with Wooden Runners RECREATIONAL
36" Lobster Trap with Wooden Runners
from $140.00 View
Electric Branding Iron for Buoys
Electric Branding Iron for Buoys
$215.00 View
304 Stainless Steel Loose Hog Rings - 14 Gauge - Blunt Tip - per pound COMMERCIAL
304 Stainless Steel Loose Hog Rings - 14 Gauge - Blunt Tip - per pound
from $9.95 View

Supplying Since 1975

Our founder, Bob Ketcham manufactured the first wire mesh trap – the Ketcham Trap – that has become the de facto standard for lobstermen everywhere. With a spirit of innovation, and our kinship with folks living off the sea, we’ve grown to a full-service supplier for the marine market.

TRIED & TRUE

We've been supplying both commercial and recreational needs for over 40 years.

OUR LOCATION

Our store and factory are located in historic New Bedford, MA.

Why Ketcham Supply

Quality You Can Trust

We manufacture and hand-select every product to meet the demands of working fishermen.

Everything You Need

Traps, cages, rope, buoys, hardware - one complete source for all your marine gear needs.

50+ Years of Experience

Founded in 1975, we have spent decades learning what fishermen and aquaculturists truly need.

Committed to the Sea

We provide biodegradable gear because we care about the waters we all depend on to thrive.

Testimonials

  • “I've been ordering from Ketcham Supply for a few years now, and they’ve never disappointed. Their traps and aquaculture gear are top-notch. I especially love their lobster traps, which hold up season after season. Customer service is super helpful and always fast to respond if I have questions. Highly recommend them!”

    Emily D.

  • “Good experience overall! The marine gear I ordered was solid, and it arrived on time. I’m pretty happy with the quality of the products, though I had a small hiccup with tracking. When I called, their customer service was quick to help, and the issue was resolved within a day. Will be back for more supplies.”

    Greg H.

  • “Ketcham Supply is hands down the best in the business. I run a small aquaculture operation, and I rely on quality gear. The equipment I’ve bought from them has made a noticeable difference in both efficiency and results. The quality is unmatched, and shipping is always super quick. My go-to supplier!”

    John R.

  • “I recently ordered some recreational fishing traps, and I was impressed with the build quality. They’re sturdy and reliable, exactly what I needed. My only reason for 4 stars instead of 5 was that it took a couple of extra days to ship, but their support team was great at keeping me updated. Will definitely order again.”

    Sarah M.

  • “Just received my order from Ketcham Supply and I’m thoroughly impressed. Everything was packed carefully, and the quality is amazing. I’ve used traps from other brands in the past, but none compare to the durability and design of Ketcham’s gear. Customer service was also outstanding when I had a question. 5 stars all the way!”

    Tom W

  • “I’ve been a loyal customer for over a decade, and Ketcham Supply has consistently provided high-quality products for both commercial and recreational fishing. Their attention to detail is second to none, and their customer service team is always a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend them to anyone in need of reliable, long-lasting fishing gear!”

    Lisa P.

  • “Great products but a little slow on delivery this time around. I ordered some traps for my business and they arrived later than expected. However, once they arrived, I was pleased with the quality. The customer support team was very responsive and helped me track the shipment. Will give them another shot next time.”

    Mark T.

  • “Couldn’t be happier with my purchase from Ketcham Supply. I ordered some oyster cages for my small farm, and the quality is superb. The gear is so much better than what I’ve used in the past. Fast delivery, easy ordering process, and great communication from their team. I’ll definitely be back for more!”

    Jessica L.

  • “Ketcham Supply is amazing! As a commercial fisherman, I need reliable gear, and Ketcham never lets me down. Their traps are durable and effective. I’ve been using their products for several years, and I can honestly say I’ve never had any issues. Their team is friendly and knowledgeable, and they’re always quick to answer any questions I have. Top-tier!”

    Nathan K.

  • “I ordered a few items for our family’s recreational fishing trips, and everything arrived in good condition. The quality of the traps is exactly as described, and they work great. The only reason I didn’t give a full 5 stars is because it took a little longer than expected for delivery. Still, I’m happy with the products and the customer service was excellent.”

    Nathan K.

FAQs

Commercial Aquaculture

  • What products do you offer for commercial aquaculture?

    We manufacture gear and distribute supplies for oyster and clam aquaculture, as well as select products for mussels, scallops, seaweed, and urchins.

    Our offerings include shellfish cages and trays, grow-out bags, rope, floats, longline clips, anchors, hardware, and predator netting. If you don’t see what you need on our website, please contact us—we’re happy to help.

  • Do you offer bulk pricing?

    All of our pricing is set at commercial wholesale levels. We offer additional discounts on many products when ordered by the pallet, and on gear ordered by the truckload.

  • Can you build custom or modified gear?

    Absolutely. No two farms are the same. Site-specific conditions—such as water depth, current, and food availability—often require adjustments like modified flotation, additional support, or reinforced structures. We’re happy to work with you to design the right solution.

  • Do you carry U.S.-made products?

    Yes. Whenever possible, we prioritize working with U.S.-based manufacturers.

  • How quickly can you ship large orders?

    We stock most standard supplies and can ship quickly. Lead times for manufactured products vary—please contact us for current availability.

Recreational Aquaculture

  • How does your recreational gear differ from commercial gear?

    Our recreational gear is made from the same commercial-grade materials but is designed for ease of use without specialized equipment.

    Grow-out bags come pre-assembled—simply attach floats and add oysters.

  • What size mesh bags should I use?

    For best results, choose oyster seed that is at least 1.5 times larger than the mesh size.

    For example, a 14 mm bag should be used with oysters that are at least 21 mm.

  • Do I need a permit to grow shellfish?

    In most areas, yes. Regulations vary by state, so check with your local authorities before starting.

  • How long does it take to grow oysters?

    Growth time depends on water temperature, flow, and food availability. In warmer regions like the Gulf, oysters can reach market size in as little as 8 months. In colder regions like northern Maine, it can take up to 4 years.

Commercial Traps

  • What types of traps do you supply?

    We build lobster, crab, eel, and fish traps.

  • What is the minimum order?

    We stock several standard traps (including seabass, scup, eel, green crab, and blue crab). For custom trap orders, we typically require a minimum of 25 units.

Recreational Traps

  • Can I catch lobsters recreationally?

    Yes. Recreational lobstering is allowed in states such as Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire.

  • Do I need a license to use traps?

    Yes. Most states require a recreational fishing license—check your local regulations.

  • Do you sell traps for recreational use?

    Yes. We offer the YotPot, a smaller trap specifically designed for recreational fishing—and it performs exceptionally well.

  • What’s the difference between commercial and recreational traps?

    Recreational traps are typically smaller, lighter, and easier to handle than commercial traps.

  • How many recreational lobster traps can I fish?

    Regulations vary by state:

    • Massachusetts: up to 10 traps
    • Rhode Island: up to 5 traps
    • New Hampshire: up to 5 traps

    Always confirm with your local regulatory agency.

  • Are your YotPots legal in my state?

    Our traps are built to meet Massachusetts recreational requirements. Traps shipped to Rhode Island are compliant with Rhode Island regulations.

    They are not legal in California or Florida. For all other states, please check with your local regulatory agency.

  • What bait should I use?

    The most effective bait is oily, strong-smelling, and durable enough to last during a soak.

    Top choices:

    • Herring – The most popular option in New England due to its high oil content
    • Menhaden (bunker/pogies) – Very effective but breaks down quickly
    • Mackerel – A durable, oily alternative

    For longer-lasting bait:

    • Fish racks (carcasses) or skate – Last longer but produce less scent
    • Squid – Very durable; best used in combination with other bait
  • Can I use these traps from a dock or shore?

    Yes. Recreational traps are designed for easy deployment from docks, small boats, or shorelines.

Ordering, Shipping & Support

  • How do I place an order?

    Orders can be placed through our website, by email, or by phone.

  • Do you offer local pickup?

    Yes. Orders can be picked up at our facility Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

  • What are your shipping options?
    • Small packages ship via USPS or FedEx
    • Larger orders ship via pallet carriers or full truckload
    • We also operate our own delivery truck serving Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Long Island
  • What is your return policy?

    Returns are accepted on unused items within 30 days. Refunds are issued as a credit or returned to the original method of payment.