Stone Crab is a very unique treat in Florida and is only available in Florida and only October through March. Winters in Florida bring out many great things about this state but the most eagerly anticipated event is the annual harvest of stone crab claws. Stone crabs are harvested in both in baited traps or a commercial stone crab fishery.
Stone Crab Facts
Stone Crabs are measured by the length of the propodus. The propodus is the larger, immovable part of the claw. Harvestable size claws must be 70 mm or greater in propodus length. If the stone crab is a female also known as a sponge, it must be placed back in the water immediately. You can tell a male from a female by remembering that female are wide and males are tall. Females will have a wide abdomen where male stone crabs will have a long narrow abdomen. Florida Stone Crab is highly sought after so if you’re planning a trip to Florida, do It during Stone Crab season.
Longboat Key Seafood Restaurants
If you are looking for the best places to enjoy Stone Crab, look no further than in and around Longboat Key. Seafood, in general, is easy to come by when you’re on the Gulf of Mexico. You will find a plethora of chain and local seafood joints scattered along the coast. However, when looking for Stone Crab, consider visiting any of the seafood joints in Sarasota. Not only is the Stone Crab fresh, you will be delighted to see how many locals will be elbows deep in crab right alongside you.
Stone Crab in Florida is something everyone should try at least once in their life. You get to experience so many things in Florida while vacationing here – food, activities, culture, art, etc. You will find seafood restaurants in and around Sarasota, mainly local hole in the walls which are always the best places to tempt your taste buds. Make sure you call ahead and ask if they sold out of Stone Crab because it tends to go quickly around here.
Staying on Longboat Key means you have access to some of the best things Florida has to offer so what are you waiting for – come vacation with us today! Stone crab season in Florida is one of the best times to visit, but Longboat Key is a great beach destination year round.
