What are the different types of Maryland Blue Crabs?

#1 Male

The #1 Male crab, also known as a “Jimmy”, are typically the most sought after type of crab. They typically range from 5 ½ – 6 ¼ inches. They are easily identified by their blue claws and inverted t-shaped apron which resembles the Washington Monument. #1 Males tend to have flakier meat.


Jumbo

Jumbo crabs are simply very large Jimmys. They typically range from 6 ¼ inches and up. These crabs are a rarity and therefore are not always available.


#2 Male

The #2 Male crab, are smaller Jimmys. They are typically caught right after shedding their old shell and have not quite filled out their new bigger shell. They range from 5 – 5 ½ inches.


Female

The Females, also known as “Sook” can be identified by the orange color on the tips of the claws or their dome shaped apron. They can range up to 6 inches. The Sooks are typically sought after for the sweet taste and the egg roe that sometimes is present inside the crab. Sooks tend to have denser meat.

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