The 'Golden' Catch

The edible crab, or as it’s locally known in Norfolk, the ‘Cromer Crab’ provides a large source of local fishing income. Historically, the crabs were only caught in summer, with herring providing the key autumn catch and cod in winter.

Cromer was a port attracting large numbers of fishermen looking to catch herring and cod. Today as a result of unsustainable fishing practices, it now has a much smaller fishery and concentrates only on shellfish. Today, a fleet of only 12 boats, looking after 200 pots, brings in nothing but crab and lobster. The minimum landing size for a Cromer crab is a shell diameter of 115mm. Cromer crabs are know for their tender meat, and a high proportion of white meat to dark, and an extra sweet taste.

Concern is rising over the future of this local celebrity. As the sea temperature gradually rises, temperatures are no longer suited to that of the Cromer crab and are more favourable to other species, such as the beady red eyed velvet swimming crab.