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Indulge in the highest quality Maryland seafood with our Live Prime Soft Crabs, sourced directly from the pristine waters of the Chesapeake Bay. Harvested at the perfect moment after molting, these premium soft shell crabs are known for their soft texture and exceptional flavor.
Prime grade soft crabs are the top choice for chefs and seafood enthusiasts who demand superior presentation and taste. Their sturdy texture makes them ideal for pan-frying, grilling, or creating elevated dishes where appearance matters just as much as flavor. Each crab delivers a naturally sweet, rich taste that showcases why Maryland soft shell crabs are considered a true delicacy.
Shipped live for peak freshness, these crabs are ready to be prepared upon arrival, ensuring you experience the best quality possible. Perfect for gourmet meals, special occasions, and a delicious fried soft crab sandwich.
Travis T.
I ordered 2 dozen live softshell crabs and was worried that they would arrive dead in San Diego. As I opened the box, the crabs didn't move at all and I almost called to complain. As I lifted them out of their nest, they warmed up and came alive. Especially when I dressed them, it was a lot of movement going on.
So, the crabs were super fresh and tasted unbelievable delicious.
Martin W.
Shipped on time. Arrived on time. Packaged very well. Live soft shell crabs and jumbo lump crabmeat was spectacular! Ordering process was simple and efficient.
Cecil G.
Live Prime Soft Crabs – Specifications
Size
Prime: 4.5” to 5" (measured point-to-point across the shell)
The size most coveted for a soft crab sandwich
Product Details
Species: Soft Shell Blue Crab (Callinectes sapidus)
Form: Live, uncleaned (must be cleaned prior to cooking)
Texture: Exceptionally tender, fully edible shell during molting stage
Flavor Profile: Sweet, delicate, and slightly briny with rich crab flavor
Appearance: Blue-green when alive; turns vibrant red/orange when cooked
Harvesting & Sustainability
Wild-caught from the Chesapeake Bay & Maryland waters
Harvested at peak molting stage when the shell is naturally soft
Responsibly sourced under Maryland crabbing regulations to support sustainability
Handling Instructions (LIVE PRODUCT)
Keep refrigerated immediately upon arrival (45°F ideal)
Store in breathable container with damp newspaper or paper towels
Do not submerge in water
Clean and cook within 24 hours for optimal quality
Cleaning Requirements
Remove face, gills (“dead man’s fingers”), and apron before cooking
Rinse thoroughly under cold water after cleaning
Ready for frying, sautéing, grilling, or broiling
Packaging & Shipping
Shipped live in insulated packaging to maintain temperature and vitality
Packed with gel packs
Overnight delivery for peak freshness
Carefully handled to minimize stress and mortality during transit
Nutritional Information (Approx. per 4 oz / 100g)
Calories: 120
Protein: 20g
Total Fat: 2g
Carbohydrates: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, Calcium, Iron, Zinc, and Magnesium
Seasonality
Peak season: Late Spring through Early Fall (Late April–Early October)
Limited availability due to short molting window
