For the next couple of weeks, both in the Chesapeake Bay and in Eastern North Carolina, most crabbers will target peelers rather than hard crabs. These peelers will be sold to individuals who earn their living by placing peelers in tanks and monitoring them round the clock as they morph into soft crabs. The extent to which the market drops this week is determined by the sheer volume of crabs being shed and the vigor of the frozen market.
Our best estimate is that we will see jumbo softs under $40 a dozen, but only for a brief period. Make sure you are placing your orders now, as peeler runs are notorious for disappearing overnight.
Prices are subject to change
5/15/23
