Top Softshell Red Crab Fishing Countries

The softshell red crab (Chaceon spp.), particularly Chaceon fenneri and related species, is a deep-sea crab found primarily along the continental slopes of the western Atlantic, including the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea. Known for its delicate, sweet meat and a shell that is harvested during its molting phase, the softshell red crab supports a specialized and valuable fishery. The United States, especially the southeastern states like Florida, is a leading harvester, with commercial fisheries targeting these crabs using deepwater traps. Other significant fishing nations include Venezuela and Brazil, where the species is found off their Atlantic coasts. These countries have developed regulated fisheries to ensure sustainability, as the slow growth and deepwater habitat of softshell red crabs make them vulnerable to overfishing. The industry is relatively niche compared to other crab fisheries but is prized for its export potential and gourmet appeal in international seafood markets.

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.