Blue crabs are different from regular crabs that you see all around on the shore and in the market place, and taking care of them once they have been captured is a whole different ball game.
If you are new to catching blue crabs, you will quickly learn that keeping them alive before cooking isn’t as simple as tossing them in a bucket unlike with regular crabs.
Blue crabs are stubborn creatures, and they need the right conditions to keep them fresh and lively.
The last thing you’ll want is for your crabs to spoil before you even get the chance to cook them.
After falling at it a couple of times, I have figured out a couple of techniques that made a big difference in keeping blue crabs alive for hours and even overnight if need be.
So in this post, I’ll share with you what I have learned about how to keep blue crabs alive before cooking them.
By follow these simple steps, you’ll make sure that your crabs stay fresh and ready for the pot.
How to Keep Blue Crabs Alive Before Cooking
When you are new to catching blue crabs, it is easy not to realize how important it is to keep them alive right up until cooking.
I made the mistake of storing them in a bucket of water, and by the time I got home, most of them had died.
That’s when I realized I needed to change my approach.
Over the years, I have tried a few methods, and I have learned that blue crabs need to stay cool, moist, and be in a place with enough airflow.
Here’s what works for me, and they would work for you to:
1. Cooler with Ice Packs
I have found that using a cooler with ice packs is one of the easiest ways to keep crabs alive.
Instead of putting them directly on ice (which can freeze or starve them of air),
I place a damp cloth over the ice packs and then put the crabs on top.
The cool temperature keeps them alive, and the cloth helps keep them wet enough.
Just make sure to leave the cooler lid open a bit so they get enough air.
2. Moist Burlap or Towel
Another option I have had success with is wrapping the crabs in a damp burlap sack or towel.
Blue crabs need moisture to survive, but they can’t be fully dipped in water.
I soak a burlap sack in cool water and lay it over the crabs.
The sack stays damp for hours, which gives the crabs enough water without drowning them.
This method works well when you are transporting them for a few hours or storing them overnight.
3. Shallow Container with Airflow
If you are not using a cooler, a shallow container works too.
The important thing is to give the crabs enough space to move around and make sure there is plenty of airflow.
I use a shallow tray or box and spread the crabs out, leaving enough room for them to breathe.
I also make sure to keep them in a cool spot with enough shade, direct sunlight can kill them faster than you can imagine.
A Few Extra Tips To Keep Blue Crabs Alive Before Cooking:
- Always avoid putting crabs in a sealed container without proper airflow. They need air to stay alive.
- If you are planning to keep them for more than a day, check on them regularly and make sure they are still moist and cool.
- Only keep what you plan to cook, blue crabs won’t stay alive for days, and it’s best to cook them while they are still fresh and lively.
Keeping blue crabs alive before cooking takes a little planning, but it’s actually worth all the effort.
Fresh crabs taste better and are easier to clean.
So, with the right storage method, you’ll be all set for a great meal!
Recommended Products to Help Keep Blue Crabs Alive
When it comes to keeping blue crabs alive before cooking, the right gear makes all the difference.
Over time, I have found a few products that make the process easier and more effective.
Here are four products I recommend:
1. Coleman Portable Cooler
The Coleman Portable Cooler is perfect for keeping crabs cool without dipping them in water.
It’s spacious enough to store a decent amount, and the insulation holds the cool temperature for hours.
I usually place ice packs or frozen water bottles inside and cover them with a damp cloth, keeping the crabs alive and fresh.
And it’s great for both short trips and overnight storage.
2. FlexiFreeze Ice Sheets
Instead of regular ice, I prefer using FlexiFreeze Ice Sheets.
These flexible sheets stay cold for a long time, and they don’t melt into water that could suffocate the crabs.
I like how easy it is to wrap them in a damp towel to create a cool layer without over chilling the crabs.
They are also reusable and convenient, making them a solid choice for any crabbing trip.
3. Burlap Potato Sacks
For the moisture method, Burlap Potato Sacks are a simple and effective solution.
Soak one in cool water, place it over your crabs, and it will keep them moist for hours.
The soft fabric allows airflow while maintaining the right level of wetness to keep the crabs alive.
And they’re perfect for storing crabs overnight or transporting them.
4. Cambro Shallow Food Storage Box
When I need a shallow container, I rely on the Cambro Shallow Food Storage Box.
It’s strong and offers plenty of space for crabs to move around without piling up, which is important for proper airflow.
The container is lightweight, easy to clean, and perfect for keeping crabs shaded and cool during transport.
It also doubles as a great storage solution for other seafood as well.
These products have made it much easier to keep my crabs alive and fresh before cooking.
Whether you are using a cooler or a damp burlap sack, having the right tools makes sure that your crabs stay lively until they hit the pot.
All of these items have worked well for me on countless crabbing trips.
Conclusion
Keeping blue crabs alive before cooking doesn’t have to be complicated.
With the right environment, cool, damp, and filled with proper airflow, you’ll be sure your crabs stay fresh and ready to be prepared.
By following these simple steps, you’ll maintain their quality and enjoy a better meal in the end.
Whether you are a professional cook or trying your hand at crab for the first time, keeping them alive is straightforward when you know what to do.
