If you’re outside of Florida, you may not have indulged in these local delicacies. Many chefs love to include stone carbs on a cocktail menu, because they’re excellent served cold with hot butter or a traditional mustard sauce. We’re happy to say that stone crab season is in full swing, and we’re just the restaurant wholesaler to give you this sustainable food quickly, and easily.
Everglades City, Florida, claims they are the birthplace of the stone crab industry. The statistics don’t lie, as the communities along Florida’s Gulf coast bring in 98% of the states stone crab claws. Fortunately for us, and sustainable seafood chefs, Florida Stone Crab holds a green rating from the Seafood Watch program which makes it an excellent choice for concerned consumers and chefs.
Claws usually arrive cooked and ready to serve, having been cooked directly off the boat. If you are a new initiate to this delicacy, you can easily identify how fresh your stoneys are, when it gently pulls from its shell and doesn’t stick.
Florida Stone Crab Claws Grow Back
It’s almost like they’re their own renewable resource! Once per year, the stone crab molts, and this is their opportunity to grow their claw back. This also means that they have soft shells, making their molting time into softshell crab season!
Their new claws start out smaller than the original, and continue to grow during subsequent molts. Those that survive softshell crab season end up with their claws harvested only when they meet regulations for size.
Legal-sized (harvestable size) claws are 70 mm (2 3/4 inches) or greater in propodus length.
Stone Crab Season
In Florida, stone crabs can legally be harvested from October 15th through May 15th. They’re typically harvested from both commercial and recreational fisheries in a baited trap, with some recreational fishers collecting crabs by hand.
When you’re in the mood to add a stand out option to your cocktail party menu, or even just your seasonal restaurant menu, look no further than these Winter seasonal delights.
If you’re ready to order, fill out a New Account Application and we’ll be back to you within 24 hours!
