5 Tips for Buying Live Crabs in Baltimore Without Getting Ripped Off
Buy live blue crabs Baltimore
Baltimore and blue crabs go hand in hand. Whether it’s a backyard crab feast or a family gathering with newspaper-covered tables, locals know there’s nothing quite like Maryland crabs. But if you’re heading out to buy live blue crabs in Baltimore, how do you make sure you’re not getting shorted or paying too much? Here are five straightforward, experience-backed tips to help you get the freshest live crabs at the right price without falling for common traps.
Only Buy During Crab Season
Crabs have their natural cycle. In Maryland, blue crab season usually runs from late April to early November, with the best quality and availability peaking during the summer.
During the season, the crabs are fatter, meatier, and more flavorful. Buying out of season? You might end up with crabs that are weak, skinny, or imported, and that means you’re paying local prices for a product that isn’t truly local.
Pro Tip: Ask the seller where the crabs were caught and when they were brought in. If they hesitate, take your business elsewhere.
Make Sure They’re Alive and Moving
When you’re buying “live” crabs, they should be alive. Not slow. Not dying. Not just sitting there like they’ve had a long day. Live crabs are feisty. They react when picked up and try to escape. That’s what you want.
If they’re still or sluggish, they could already be dying, which impacts the taste and freshness once cooked.
Pro Tip: Look for crabs stored in a damp, cool basket or container (not soaking in water). And if they’re not trying to pinch you, move on.
Learn How Sizing and Pricing Work
In Baltimore, crabs are sold by the dozen or by the bushel, and are sized based on their shell width:
- Small: 4.5–5 inches
- Medium: 5–5.5 inches
- Large: 5.5–6 inches
- Jumbo: Over 6 inches
Many sellers label crabs as “heavy” or “light.” This refers to how whole the crab is with meat. A heavy medium can sometimes be better than a light large.
Pro Tip: Always ask the seller to show you a sample of what you’re buying. And don’t hesitate to ask for a mix. Some places will even let you handpick them.
Compare Prices, but Be Wary of “Too Cheap”
Live blue crab prices can vary depending on the catch that day, weather, demand, and supplier. It’s smart to shop around, but if you find a place offering a price way below the average, it might be a red flag.
Cheaper often means lighter, weaker crabs, or they might be close to dying. You’ll end up paying for the shell instead of the meat.
Pro Tip: A dozen medium males in-season usually range from $99 to $130, depending on the market. If you see $65 for a dozen “large,” be suspicious.
Only Buy from Trusted Local Crab Houses
Baltimore has no shortage of crab spots, but not all are created equal. A trustworthy crab house will have transparent pricing, live and healthy crabs, and a reputation for consistency.
At Cravin’ Crabs, we’ve built our reputation on honesty and quality. Locals keep coming back for our live blue crabs, fair prices, and friendly service.
Pro Tip: Check Google reviews, ask friends where they go, and don’t fall for flashy signs or “cash only” spots without good reviews.
Know What You’re Getting Male vs. Female
In Maryland, male crabs (jimmies) are usually meatier, while female crabs (sooks) are sometimes sweeter. Some places mix them up in bushels, so if you’re particular about your pick, ask specifically for what you want.
Some crab lovers don’t mind the mix, especially if they’re making soup or sauces. But if you’re buying for a traditional crab feast, males are usually the go-to.
Final Thoughts: Trust Your Eyes, Ears, and Gut
Buying live crabs in Baltimore should be a fun, rewarding experience, not a gamble. Whether you’re a local seafood veteran or shopping for the first time, these tips will help you get your money’s worth.
we make it easy. Just swing by, pick your own crabs, and get ready for a feast.
