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Florida Blue Crab Guidelines and Tips

  • Verify Your License: Make sure your license is valid and up-to-date.

  • Know the Regulations: Familiarize yourself with crabbing seasons, closures, and local rules.

  • Check Weather and Tides: Always plan your trip with safety in mind.

  • Size Limit: There is no size limit for blue crabs.

  • Daily Bag Limit: Each harvester may collect up to 10 gallons of crabs per day.

  • Protect Female Crabs: It is illegal to keep egg-bearing females.

  • Trap Limit: A maximum of 5 traps is allowed per harvester.

  • Trap Identification:

    • The harvester’s name and address must be permanently affixed to each trap and clearly legible.

    • An FWC-issued unique trap registration number must also be permanently affixed and legible.

  • Buoy Markings: Traps must have a buoy marked with a legible “R” at least 2 inches tall.

Identifying Female vs. Male Blue Crabs

It can be tricky to distinguish males from females when females are not carrying eggs. Use these simple tips:

  • Apron Shape:

    • Female: Rounded and wide.

    • Male: Thin and tall.

  • Claw Color:

    • Female: Red claws, often called "Lipstick."

    • Male: Blue or green-tinted claws.

  • Body Shape:

    • Male crabs typically have broader bodies with more pronounced spines.

crab diagram.PNG

Florida Fish and Wildlife Laws and Links

Stay informed about Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation (FWC) regulations for blue crabs to ensure responsible and legal crabbing. This section provides essential guidelines and resources, including trap requirements, size limits, seasonal closures, and tips for sustainable practices.

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Click the links below to explore FWC laws and make your crabbing adventures both compliant and successful!

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Rule Chapter: 68B-45 - 

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Florida Fish and Wildlife Blue Crab Webpage - 

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Florida Fish and Wildlife Blue Crab Trap Specifications (2025) - 

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