Beating the crabs estuary

Well guys I have fished this estuary when I was young. It was great for flatfish. Flounder and plaice. Last year I decided to relive my youth and went back too the estuary. Every cast my baits were being eaten by crabs in minutes. I went back several times and same thing happened. I would love too know have you any tips on beating the crabs or atleast increase the time my bait lasts. Any help would be much appreciated.
Would love too get a few fish from it.

Thanks

use floating beads near the hook if you fishing for flats it will defo help as they are all ways looking up to hit something having your bait up will also keep the crabs away and give other chances for other species

Can you get your hands on peeler crab - it might last a bit longer
you could also try hiding your lug inside the squid - bigger baits last longer

floating beads will definitely help

Hi. What rig are you using? If its a rigs constantly on the bottom it'll be easier for them. For instance a two hook flapper with the hooks tied high your guaranteed at least one of them off the bottom. Best of luck

If theres nice flow i use a french boom to keeo it off the ground

Gobig or go home. How would you work it? Cast out and give a lot of line so it floats up? I like the idea of booms great bite detection

Yep, less is more. Let the tide keep ur bait off the ground. Use it last month and took a plaice on sandeel. Just decide on how long a snood Vrs how high the boom is from the lead etc.