Sourcing lean crabs and supply reliability.
2 Answers
Lean or water crabs for fattening are usually bought from local crab collectors, coastal fishermen and traders in brackish water areas. The key is a steady supply of healthy, undamaged crabs of the right size, since damaged or weak crabs die during fattening and reduce your profit. Build relationships with reliable collectors so you get regular stock to keep your system working. Be aware of size and seasonal rules and any restrictions on collecting from the wild, since mud crab fishery is regulated in places. Avoid crabs with missing claws or injuries where possible. Confirm the legal sourcing rules and supply options for your area with your state Fisheries department before you commit to a system.
A good relationship with local collectors is everything. When supply of lean crabs dried up, my pens sat empty. Damaged crabs also die in the system, so I check each one.