Yes, dock spiders will often nest under wooden steps and dock boards. Unlike other types of spiders, they do not build webs to catch prey.
If you’ve ever lifted a dock board or stepped onto a lake stairway at dusk, you’ve probably run into a dock spider. They’re large and they’re fast. They can startle you easily. They are, thankfully, harmless.
Fishing spiders live at the water’s edge. They do this because it allows them to easily hunt insects, small fish, and tadpoles. They can run across the water surface, dive and stay under for minutes. Between hunts, they need a dry, dark, sheltered place close to the water, and the underside of wooden steps is close to perfect.
Dock spiders tend to be big, with leg spans that can reach up to three inches. They move fast too. That makes them pretty frightening to see despite being harmless. They’re not aggressive. If you try to confront them, they’ll probably run away. And they’ll only bite if you directly handle them. Even if they do bite, it won’t cause a reaction any worse than a bee sting.
Still, you probably don’t want a bunch of dock spiders around your steps. So to reduce their presence, remove shelter and food. Close up large gaps under steps and dock boards where you can. Clear debris and stored items from underneath. Then cut back vegetation at the water’s edge. Consider switching dock and stair lighting to warm-toned bulbs since bright light draws in the insects they like to hunt.
If spiders and lakeside insects are taking over your dock area, Mosquito Squad of North Central Minnesota can help. Mosquito Squad's home and yard coverage treats the structures and shoreline edges where spiders and insects concentrate. This will help you protect the areas your family uses.
