Claws Up!

It’s that time of year South Floridians wait for all summer—the crack of a shell, the tang of mustard sauce, and the arrival of one of our favorite coastal traditions. Stone crab season is officially back, running from October 15 through May 1, and with it comes a celebration that feeds both our appetites and our economy.

From the docks of Everglades City to the seafood counters of Fort Lauderdale, fishermen are already hauling in traps filled with this prized delicacy. Each trap is tagged, monitored, and checked by hand. Crabs that meet the legal size of 2 7/8 inches lose just one claw before being returned to the sea—an ingenious method that allows the animal to regenerate and ensures the sustainability of the species. Once the claws are boiled and flash-chilled right on deck, they’re whisked to markets and restaurants within hours, destined for ice trays and elegant platters across South Florida.

You’ll find them cracked and ready at Catfish Dewey’s in Fort Lauderdale, a local landmark known for its all-you-can-eat stone crab nights, or freshly hauled and served at Catch & Cut, where the seafood practically comes straight from the boat to your plate. In Miami, tradition reigns at Joe’s Stone Crab, where the first batch of claws each October is practically a citywide holiday. Across Palm Beach County, Billy’s Stone Crab and Truluck’s keep diners cracking through the season with chilled claws, drawn butter, and mustard sauce.

The Florida stone crab industry isn’t just a culinary highlight—it’s big business. According to state data, the fishery contributes roughly $30 million annually to Florida’s economy, supporting thousands of jobs in fishing, processing, and hospitality. The season also gives tourism a welcome boost, drawing locals and visitors alike to the waterfront for the freshest catch of the year.

For many, the return of stone crab season signals more than a meal—it’s a celebration of life by the water. The sweet, delicate flavor of each claw carries with it the rhythm of the sea, the skill of local fishermen, and the enduring spirit of South Florida. So grab a bib, crack a claw, and raise a toast to the season. The sweetest catch in Florida is finally back on the table.

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