To Every Crab There Is a Season

Lovers of crab know from their taste buds that the flavor of their favorite crustacean depends on the time of year. The time of year when a crab is harvested will affect the quality and taste of its meat. We’ll discuss how the seasons play a factor on how delicious your crab meal will be.

Spring

As the water temperature rises in their habitat during spring, the crabs emerge from their winter hibernation. This season’s first crabs are generally rated fair in quality due to the sand inside them that accumulated during their long winter asleep. Fortunately, the particles of sand are eventually flushed out after a few weeks of being active in the water.

Summer

Crabs are in the greatest number in the summer but although more plentiful, the quality of crab meat won’t be as consistent because crabs typically undergo molting or shedding several times when there’s a full moon during the summer. The bonus of this process is right after shedding you will have a soft shell crab, a delicacy for every crab connoisseur.

Fall

Experts say autumn is the best season for harvesting crab. When the water starts getting colder, crab will stop molting. Crabs also start eating more to fatten up prior to hibernation so they can survive the winter. Those harvested in fall have appear “rusty.” look. Their shells are hard, darker, and even dirty looking. Inside, they are filled with meat that will be better tasting than other times of the year.

Winter

There are only a very small number of crabs that can be harvested in winter. The majority have migrated to habitats in deeper water, then bury themselves in the sand and mud until the return of spring. Crab meat that’s available in the winter is typically either pasteurized or comes from the southeastern parts of the country.

Craving Crab?

Lovers of fat, juicy crab and amazing seafood don’t have to drive to Baltimore, Ocean City, Hooper’s Island, or Annapolis anymore. Stay close to home and enjoy wonderful deliciousness all year around at our two new locations in Maryland!

• The Crab Shack – Crofton is OPEN!
• The Crab Shack – Edgewater (Opening in Spring 2021! Check Facebook.)

Our Crofton branch can accommodate a large party group, so if you are interested in reserving tables, please call (443) 302-2680.