Chesapeake Blue Crabs not overfished but new numbers are concerning

New numbers from the Chesapeake Bay Stock Assessment Committee show the Bay’s blue crab population is not overfished—but the overall numbers are concerning.

According to the 2025 Blue Crab Advisory Report, the total population has dropped to 238 million crabs, down from 317 million last year. That’s the second-lowest level since the annual Winter Dredge Survey began in 1990.

Juvenile numbers are also down to 103 million—one of the lowest on record—and male crabs have hit their lowest estimate yet at just 26 million. While female crab numbers remain above the minimum threshold, they’re still well below the target of 196 million

Scientists say overharvesting doesn’t appear to be the cause. In fact, harvest rates for both male and female crabs in 2024 were within recommended limits. Instead, researchers are looking into other possible factors—like habitat loss, predation, and environmental changes including temperature, salinity, and hypoxia.

A new benchmark stock assessment is underway and expected in early 2026. It will reexamine the numbers used to determine population health.

Chesapeake Bay Program partners say they remain committed to science-based, collaborative management to protect both the crabs and the livelihoods they support. Updates to the Bay’s management goals will be open for public input starting July 1st.