How to Buy Softshell Crabs

Most of the soft shell crabs available in the United States only comes from certain areas. The areas that produce the largest amount of softshell crabs is: Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Louisiana. This type of crab is usually avaialbe in the late spring to early fall.

There are 3 different places you can purchase softshell crabs; at a local fish market, via the internet, or through a restaurant. The safest places to buy from are the local fish market and through a restaurant.

Local Fish Markets

If you live in an area where soft shell crab is plentiful it should be easy to find. Some local fish markets will carry soft shell crab, while others will require you to order it and come pick it up later.

Via the Internet

There are many stores on the internet that sell soft shell crab. This is a very convenient way to buy, because you never have to leave your home; the crabs will be delivered right to your door. Here are some great websites for buying soft shell crab.

The Crab Place
http://www.crabplace.com/
This is a great website for buying crabs. They offer a variety of types and sizes and multiple quantities. They even include directions for preparation on their site. These soft shell crabs come directly from Maryland.

Allen Brothers
http://www.allenbrothers.com/
This is a company that is typically known for steaks, however they also have a great variety of seafood. On this site you can order dozen crabs at a time and they even offer cooking directions.

Linton's Seafood
http://www.lintonseafood2.com
This company only allows you to order soft shell crab in small quantities, however the prices are cheaper. These crabs are shipped directly from Maryland.

All Fresh Seafood
http://www.allfreshseafood.com/
This company will allow you to buy as little as one crab at a time. They also have some awesome recipies for all types of seafood.

Restaurants
If you are still craving soft shell crabs and you can't find anywhere local and don't want to buy it online, many seafood based restaurants offer this tasty delicacy. However, you may want to call ahead, to be sure they have this on their menu.

No matter how you choose to buy soft shell crab, enjoy it! This rare delicacy is not available year round so take advantage while you can.