North Bay Charters - Crab Prices

Current Crab Prices &
Capt. Chris's Crabbing Report
First Update of 2008 - May 8th, 2008

Well, well, well. Another year is finally upon us! The warm weather is starting to be more and more frequent, and that means one thing folks. . . CRABS are here! While the North Bay region is still VERY slow this time of the year, our buddies to the south are reporting good catches and solid-looking crabs. It's just a matter of time before the critters find their way up here, and into our pots and your bellies.

On a less optimistic note, this is going to be a tough year for all of us. Just like most other sectors of the economy, commercial fishermen are feeling the crunch of higher fuel costs and less disposable income among their customer base. Additionally, a whole gaggle of new regulations are being proposed and implemented by the Department of Natural Resources which could curtail our catch this year by upwards of 40% or more.

So what does this mean for you, our loyal customers? I'm sure you already know; you have seen it in everything from eggs to milk. Prices are rising disproportionately to income, and crabs are no exception. I don't have a crystal ball, but if you asked me, I'd be expecting prices around $225 a bushel or better for #1 males by the 4th of July.

If you are interested in frozen soft shell crabs or fresh Bay oysters, please contact us throughout the winter. We have them in stock!

Legend:
A "Bushel Basket" does not contain a specific number of crabs. It is a traditional, wooden basket and holds different amounts based on the size of the crabs. Our bushels are stuffed full with tops bulging.
"Market Size" refers to the typical nomenclature that you would be familiar with if you ordered these crabs in a restaurant or crab house.
"Cull Size" simply means the "cut-off" size which we use to determine the classification of a crab while "culling" them on-board the vessel.
Male crabs must be at least 5 1/4 inches to keep according to Maryland law, and there is no size limit on Mature Females. Immature females and Sponge (egg-bearing) crabs must always be returned to the Bay.

ALL CRABS ARE SOLD LIVE - NEVER EAT A DEAD CRAB!!!