Yum, Yum! There is nothing like a big pile of fresh Florida Stone Crab claws to brighten the day. But, if you didn't get your crabby fix already, you'll have to wait until October 15 to dive into this desirable delectable. The Stone Crab season officially ended on Sunday. That's okay, all indicators say a good season is coming later this year and there will be 'crabs-o-plenty', for all to enjoy.
The past 2 years have been quite slow for catching Stone Crab. Sometimes it's the weather, sometimes it's the predators, or a lack of the latter, but for some optimal set of reasons, every few years we have a banner catch. And there is never a lull in the demand for product. That being said, we have big hopes for the 2001/12 Stone Crab season.
Served ice cold with a side of melted butter is my favorite way of enjoying the sweet taste of Florida Stone Crab...simple! Maybe throw in a side of spicy mustard sauce. Oh Yeah! Or how about crab cakes? If you have a good crab cake recipe, there is nothing better than Stone Crab claw meat as your main ingredient. Ever had a fried crab claw? Shell removed, pincer intact, dipped in Tempura batter and deep-fried...oh sweet Heaven!
Commercial Stone crabbers have until the end of May to remove any crabbing gear from the water. Meanwhile, boaters should still use caution not to run over any remaining lines or bouys left behind, this can cause considerable damage to both vessel and running gear...at your expense. As always, never be tempted to touch commercial crab gear. The crabs are out of season and the gear belongs to someone else, usually relying on that gear to put food on the table for their families. Common sense.
If you have never tasted Florida Stone Crab, now is the time to plan your recreational harvest for the Fall season, or plan on a visit to your local fresh seafood market. The crabs should be plenty, and the eating is out of this world! Happy crabbing in the upcoming season, Capt. Dan