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Stone Crab Season 2017

Stone Crab season started October 15 and continues through May 15. The Florida Stone Crab claws are commercially harvested by many of our local seafood restaurants near the Gulf Coast Islands. Many area seafood markets also flash freeze, these claws fresh off the boat, for the best flavors, when prepared at home. Relive that special seafood dinner from your family vacation,  once again, with fresh fish, from our local fishermen.

How to Crack Stone Crab~ The best way is with a Lobster Cracking tool  if you are without, place a washcloth or small towel in your hand, with claw in palm, crack the on the curve with the back of a heavy tablespoon. Scoop out the tasty meat and dip in hot butter. Or Pre crack it prior to serving.

Seafood Markets offer the best fresh fish and crustaceans to eat at home and many offer to prepare it for you, or have full restaurants attached.

Anna Maria Island to Siesta Key:

Cortez Fish Market and Bait~The Cortez Bait & Seafood Company has been the place for the “locals” to go for many years. Cortez, Florida which is a fishing village is known for its fresh fish and local catch! We are very proud of this tradition. 12110 Cortez Rd. West in Cortez, FL. 

Starfish Market and Dockside Restaurant~This hidden gem is  a local favorite. Cortez Village, where Star Fish Company is located, is found on the northern edge of Sarasota Bay. It is one of the few remaining working waterfronts left in Florida. No frills, cash only, located at  12306 46th Ave W Cortez Fl, 34215 (941) 794-1243

Island Fresh Market~ selling seasonal seafood, partnering with other sources offering specialty food products. 5604 Marina Drive Holmes Beach, FL 34217 Phone: 941.567.6130.

Seafood restaurants on Anna Maria 

Big Water Fish Market~a retail fish market and casual restaurant that specializes in fresh, wild, Florida seafood. We offer the freshest and most delicious casual dining menu until we close. 6641 Midnight Pass Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242

From Clearwater to Indian Rocks:

Ward’s Seafood~Buy fresh seafood, or have it cooked there to take out. 1001 Belleair Road Clearwater, FL 33756 call: (727) 518-8731

Crabby Bill’s ~ Restaurant with live music nightly and seafood market 401 Gulf Blvd, Indian Rocks Beach, FL 33785  call:727.595.4825

Frenchy’s Original Café~ Hosts and annual Stone crab Block Party the first weekend of season every year at, Selling just above cost. 41 Baymont Street, Clearwater Beach, FL

If you are looking for a vacation rental property, to make your family’s experience feel like home, check out our available units at www.beachrentalsnw.wpengine.com.  For more information on finding the best place for your island escape, call Toll Free: 844-206-6624.