If you’ve spent any time in the First State, chances are you’ve had your fill of seafood. Everyone who grows up here will tell you that there’s nothing that reminds them of summertime quite like picking blue crabs in Delaware.

Crabbing season kicks off every year in the early spring - usually, by April, restaurants add fresh crabs back to their menu. By the late fall, most of the seasonal crab shacks shut their doors.
Flickr / Bill Dickinson
In the summer, it's easy to catch crabs in the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean yourself. Whether you take a boat out and set traps, or try hand-crabbing off of Woodland Pier, there's nothing quite as satisfying as catching crabs yourself.
Of course, you don't have to catch them yourself to enjoy blue crabs in Delaware! Just take a drive on any rural Delaware road and you're sure to stumble upon a crab stand.
Flickr / Jason Yung
There are also dozens of crab shacks up and down the First State. What's your go-to place to pick up a bushel of crabs?
You'll find a paper-covered table full of crabs at backyard picnics and parties all summer long.
Flickr / ehpien
Picking crabs is an art form, and anyone who just smashes away with a nutcracker needs to learn the proper methods.
Picking crabs can be a lot of work, and many Delawareans choose to enjoy their crabs in a more convenient way.
Flickr / kae71463
While Maryland gets all the credit for crab cakes, some Delaware restaurants are world-famous for their version of this iconic dish.

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Some chefs choose to make she-crab soup. While male blue crabs typically have meatier claws, she-crabs carry flavorful eggs.
Flickr / Stu_Spivak
If you're catching crabs yourself, though, check local ordinances. Sometimes, there are limits placed on catching female crabs, since they only reproduce once in their lifetime.
Another backyard party favorite is crab dip, or crab salad.
Flickr / Jeffreyw
Everyone seems to have their own version of this appetizer, but one common thread ties them all together - it's best served with Ritz crackers.
When it comes to cooking with crabs, get as creative as you'd like!
Flickr / Jake Slagle
Even though most blue crabs in Delaware are served seasoned or in crab cakes, you'll easily find recipes for internationally-inspired seafood dishes that include plenty of crab meat.
What's your favorite way to eat crab meat? Are you looking forward to visiting your favorite crab shack this year?
Flickr / Bigbirdz
Let's talk crabs in the comments below!

Nominate your favorite crab shack and we’ll be sure to check them out!

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