Chesapeake Bay blue crab numbers rise, according to new survey
Crab prices up despite population increase
The blue crab population is booming in the D.C. region, but that doesn’t mean you’ll see lower prices.
ANNAPOLIS, Md. - A new report shows a significant increase in the Chesapeake Bay blue crab population, but that does not mean consumers should expect lower prices this summer or over Memorial Day weekend.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources 2026 Winter Dredge Survey estimates about 349 million blue crabs in the Bay, a 46% increase from last year. Juvenile crabs saw the biggest jump, rising 121% to 228 million, marking the highest levels since 2019.
While the overall numbers are encouraging, adult female crabs declined 25% year over year, though they remain above management thresholds, per the survey.
Despite the population increase, prices at local seafood spots remain elevated.
At Bethesda Crab House, a dozen large crabs are selling for about $155, while a dozen medium crabs go for around $130 — a slight increase from last year, according to restaurant management.
Restaurant managers say higher costs are being driven in part by fuel and transportation expenses, including the cost of shipping and trucking crabs to market.
The Winter Dredge Survey also found adult male crabs increased to 37 million. Researchers say colder winter conditions contributed to higher overwintering mortality rates.
Even with the strong overall population rebound, industry officials caution that pricing pressures are likely to continue heading into summer.
The Source: Information in this article comes from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.