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Name:

California King Crab

Paralithodes californiensis

Seasonal Availability:

Incidental catch-only, no targeted fishery

Commercial Length or Size Requirements:

For species not believed to have a commercial size requirement, kindly refer to the CDFW or agency of jurisdiction website for further details.

Flavor Profile

California King Crab, also known as Golden King Crab, presents a luxurious flavor profile characterized by a sweet and succulent taste. Its meat is rich, buttery, and boasts a hint of brininess that enhances its overall indulgence. With a firm and flaky texture,

Our favorite ways to cook

Our favorite approach for California King Crab is to boil or steam the legs. Add your choice of seasonings to a pot of boiling water, then carefully add the crab legs. Steam or boil for around 6-8 minutes. The succulent meat can be extracted from the shells and dipped in melted butter or a tangy sauce. The sweet and rich taste of California King Crab meat shines through, making it a special treat for seafood enthusiasts.

Things you probably didn't know about California King Crab

Did you know that California King Crab is not a true crab but actually belongs to the same family as hermit crabs? Furthermore, these majestic creatures can migrate up to 100 miles in search of food during their lifespan. Lastly, the incredible regenerative powers of California King Crab allow them to regrow lost limbs, ensuring their resilience in the face of challenges

Who's Catching

A King Crab is held aloft in a person's hand.

Photo by Saraspe

California King Crab

Photo by Saraspe

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