Are crabs running out?

Blue Crab catches ebb and flow like the tide. Sometimes it’s the outside bay world that influences the ability to get a fresh bushel at a reasonable price for your feast. The first warning sign that “things are going south” is a disappearance of crab cakes from the menu, or overly high prices. Picking houses run second to the crab houses. Throwing a feast, especially during the summer takes preeminence to the cake. Overly beautiful weather and a robust economy can increase the demand for the salty sweet delicacy. Prices rise and so do the cries from the loyal blue crab fans.

Seasonal workers and even a migrant team pinpoint the second reason crabs may become “scarce.” In this case, the supply is just right, but the workers aren’t enough. These workers fill in the employment gaps and give you a high-quality product with a reasonable price. Problems with other country relationships or even USA economic woes can unhinge a potentially good season.

Of course, Mother Nature may have a hand in crab populations dropping. Recently, Blue Catfish have found a strong liking for the blue. Predators and even changing food supply like oysters and clams will certainly play a role in what that half or full bushel will run.  What should you do? Feast while you can! Celebrate a catch, and if you see crab cakes made with USA Blue Crab meat, stock up!