Maryland Crabs

Adult blue crabs can grow up to nine inches. The blue crab is one of the most important species harvested in the Bay, has the highest value of any commercial fishery, and supports a recreational fishery of significant, but undetermined, value. Blue crabs are harvested as hard shell crabs, peeler crabs just prior to molting, and softshell crabs immediately after the molt. Recreational gear includes baited hand lines, mesh rings, collapsible traps, trotlines, and dip nets.