We don’t know about you, but this is our favorite time of year! It is officially Florida Stone Crab Claw season! Wild-harvested off the coast of Florida with the official season kicking off early October lasting through the beginning of May. Stone Crab Claws are considered one of the most sustainable seafood options due to high management, harvesting rules, and limited seasonal availability.

Only one of the largest claws, called the “crusher claw,” is harvested at a time, which needs to exceed at least 2¾ inches to be selected for commercial use. Stone Crabs can still live and thrive with one claw, and their claws grow back within a year, so this method is done without harming or killing the crab! Catching methods are limited to traps or pots, which are specifically constructed for stone crabs, making it hard for other species to get caught. To top off these sustainability efforts, females that are egg-bearing are not selected for harvest.

Stone Crab Claws are a seasonal delicacy that are known for their exquisite, sweet flavors, and have a taste that can be compared to lobster. This succulent flavor comes from their mostly shellfish diet, which is what they use these large, meaty, (and delicious), “crusher claws” for. Since their natural flavor is highly sought and coveted, this product is traditionally served simply – cold with a side of butter sauce and, or a squeeze of lemon. When we get Stone Crab Claws in, they are only out of the water for a day or two, so you receive the freshest quality when choosing Sam Rust Seafood. We offer ready-to-eat medium, large, jumbo, and colossal claws in 5-pound increments by pre-order.

Call us at 757-838-7200 to place your order today!