The Pacific rock crab (commonly *Cancer antennarius*, though several closely related species are grouped as "rock crabs") is a robust, reddish-brown crustacean found along the Pacific coasts of North America, from California to Baja California, and sometimes further north. These crabs inhabit rocky shorelines and subtidal zones, making them accessible to both commercial and recreational fisheries. The United States, particularly the state of California, is the leading harvester of Pacific rock crab, where it is caught primarily using traps and sold for its sweet, delicate meat. Mexico also maintains a significant fishery for Pacific rock crab along its Pacific coast, especially in Baja California. While Canada has a robust crab industry, it focuses more on other species such as Dungeness and snow crabs. The Pacific rock crab fishery is valued regionally for both its economic contribution and its role in supporting local seafood markets and restaurants.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | United States of America | 501 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.