Blue claw crab season is well underway in the Garden State, but recreational “crabbers” should be aware of the rules and regulations governing this summer treat.
As per the state size and possession limits (crustaceans and mollusks) on page 20 of the 2026 New Jersey Marine Fisheries Digest, crabs may be taken recreationally with hand lines, manually operated collapsible traps or scoop nets without a license. However, non-commercial crab pot license is required for the use of not more than two non-collapsible Chesapeake-style crab pots or two trot lines to harvest crabs. Click here for your $2 Recreational Crab Pot license.
It is illegal to harvest or possess more than one bushel of crabs per day per person or offer for sale any crabs without having in your possession a valid commercial crabbing license. Minimum size for crabs that may be harvested (measured from point to point of shell) are as follows:
- a) Peeler or shedder crab: 3 inches
- b) Soft crab: 3-1/2inches
- c) Hard crab: 4-1/2 inches
All female crabs with eggs attached and all undersized crabs shall be returned to the water immediately. Also, those using Chesapeake-Style Crab Pots are also required to use terrapin excluders and biodegradable panels. For more information on licenses and crab trap rules in new Jersey go to https://nj.aspirafocus.com or visit any NJDEP Fish & Wildlife certified license agents.
