Discover the Crab Capital of the World in This Maryland County

Photo byFoodie Travler

Maryland and the Chesapeake Bay are internationally celebrated for their crabs, with Crisfield in Somerset County earning the title of the Crab Capital of the World. This year, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has recently declared the commencement of the recreational crabbing season on April 1st.

Spanning from April to mid-December, this crabbing season provides plenty of time for enthusiasts to engage in this iconic Maryland activity. It’s the perfect opportunity for both seasoned crabbers and newcomers to experience the excitement of catching one of Maryland's most famous crustaceans while enjoying the stunning state waterways.

Adult blue crabs, a critical species in the Chesapeake Bay, can grow up to nine inches in size. These crabs are highly valued commercially and are harvested in various stages: hard shell, peeler (just before molting), and softshell (immediately after molting).

Photo byJason LeungonUnsplash

Maryland's blue crabs can be found throughout the Chesapeake Bay and along the Atlantic Coast, inhabiting shallow waters, mud flats, tidal marshes, and rocky areas. Crabbing enthusiasts can either bring their gear or hire local guides and outfitters to help catch a bushel of these sought-after blue crabs.

Here are some interesting facts about blue crabs:

• Crabs mature within 12 to 18 months and rarely live beyond three years.
• The largest recorded crab from Maryland was a nine-inch male, but crabs up to 11 inches have been noted in DNR surveys.
• The Chesapeake Bay's annual hard crab harvest accounts for over 50% of the total U.S. landings.
• Various methods can be used to fish for blue crabs, with licensing requirements dependent on the equipment and location.

As Maryland's blue crab season kicks off, it promises to be an exciting time for everyone, from avid crab fishermen to those who simply love eating them. Get ready to enjoy the freshest catches and savor the unique flavors of the Chesapeake Bay