Name:
Brown Rock Crab
Romaleon antennarium (formerly Cancer antennarius)
Seasonal Availability:
Year-round
For species-specific updates, please visit this website
Commercial Length or Size Requirements:
4.25 inches
Flavor Profile
Brown Rock Crab has a sweet and succulent meat with a slightly nutty flavor and delicate texture. Its flavor is reminiscent of the ocean.
Our favorite ways to cook
Our preferred method for California Rock Crab is to steam them. Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil and adding a steaming basket. Place the cleaned and prepared rock crabs in the basket and steam for about 10-15 minutes. The meat will turn opaque and have a sweet taste that pairs perfectly with melted butter or a zesty dipping sauce. Whether enjoyed as a standalone dish or added to pasta or salads, steamed California Rock Crab is a true delicacy.
Things you probably didn't know about Brown Rock Crab
Brown rock crabs are an important part of the marine ecosystem, but there's more to these crustaceans than meets the eye. Did you know that brown rock crabs can be found in shallow waters as well as depths of up to 100 feet? They also have a reputation for being aggressive towards other crabs, which may help explain why they're often sought after by fishermen. Additionally, brown rock crabs are known for their powerful claws, which can exert up to 195 pounds of force. Overall, these fascinating creatures are worth learning more about - whether you're a fisherman, a nature lover, or just someone who appreciates the wonders of the ocean.
Who's Catching
Related Species
Get to know the many varieties of crustaceans available locally

Name:
Brown Box Crab
Lopholithodes foraminatus
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Name:
California King Crab
Paralithodes californiensis
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Name:
California Spiny Lobster
Panulirus interruptus
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Name:
Red Rock Crab
Cancer productus
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Name:
Scarlet King Crab
Lithodes couesi
Read More about the Scarlet King Crab
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Name:
Southern Kelp Crab
Taliepus nuttallii
Read More about the Southern Kelp Crab
Click to learn more about the Southern Kelp Crab
Name:
Spider (Sheep) Crab
Loxorhynchus spp.
Read More about the Spider (Sheep) Crab
Click to learn more about the Spider (Sheep) Crab
Name:
Spot Prawn
Pandalus platyceros
Read More about the Spot Prawn
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Name:
Yellow Rock Crab
Cancer anthonyi
Read More about the Yellow Rock Crab
Click to learn more about the Yellow Rock Crab