Based on the existing flap-type Wave Energy Converter (WEC), a novel waterproof flap-type WEC that can be self-adaptive to tide level is proposed and its model test is carried out in a wave tank. The mechanical power is generated from the relative motion between the flaps and the main part of the device driven by water waves, and the electric power is then generated from the mechanical power. The effects of flap shape, mooring mode, incident angle and flap load on the power generation of the device are studied. The test results show that: the wave power captured by the eagle-type WEC is optimal; the tension mooring is more conducive to the absorption of wave energy; the forward wave facing arrangement of the flap is better than the oblique wave arrangement; there is an optimal matching between the power efficiency and the flap load. The design of the systems of the flap-type WEC meets the requirements and the device can well capture wave energy.