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Name:

Yellow Rock Crab

Cancer anthonyi

Seasonal Availability:

Year-round

Commercial Length or Size Requirements:

4.25 inches

Flavor Profile

Yellow rock crabs have a sweet and delicate flavor with a hint of saltiness. The meat is tender and succulent, with a firm texture. Their flavor is often described as a mix of lobster and crab, making them a tasty addition to any seafood dish.

Our favorite ways to cook

Steam cleaned Yellow Rock Crab for 10-12 minutes with aromatic spices. Crack open the shells and enjoy the sweet meat with melted butter or a dipping sauce.

Things you probably didn't know about Yellow Rock Crab

Yellow rock crabs are a unique species of crab that you might not know much about! These crabs are commonly found in rocky areas throughout the western United States and Mexico. Unlike other crab species, yellow rock crabs have a unique biological trait called "carapace dimorphism," which means their shells can vary in color and size depending on the crab's gender and habitat. Additionally, yellow rock crabs are known for being relatively small, only growing up to four inches wide, making them a popular prey for larger marine animals. Next time you're exploring rocky areas along the coast, be on the lookout for these fascinating crabs!

Who's Catching

A photo of the front end of a Yellow Rock crab.

Photo by Russel Spencer

A piece of cooked Yellow Rock Crab is held up dripping butter.

Photo by John Troxell

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