How Long Is Crawfish Season

If you're a foodie looking for some delicious culinary experiences, then crawfish season is the perfect time to dive in! From boiled mudbugs and étouffée to po'boys and gumbo, there's no denying that this uniquely Southern delicacy packs a flavor punch.

Whether you already love them or would like to try something new, now is your chance to find out why these little crustaceans are such an essential part of regional cuisine. So stock up on old bay seasoning and draw up an invite list - it’s time to get the party started with some tasty crawfish dishes!

Crawfish or Crayfish?

Some folks call 'em crayfish, others call 'em crawfish. It just depends on where you are from. At the end of the day crawfish and crayfish are two names for the same type of freshwater crustacean.

The term "crayfish" is more commonly used in parts of the world outside of the United States, while "crawfish" is more commonly used in the southern United States, particularly in Louisiana. Both terms refer to the same type of small, freshwater crustacean that is known for its distinctive appearance and flavorful meat.

What is crawfish season and when does it start/end

Crawfish season is the time of year when crawfish, also known as crayfish or mudbugs, are most abundant and typically at their best quality. During peak crawfish season, these freshwater crustaceans can be found in many parts of the United States, particularly in the South (New Orleans and Houston are prominent locations). Crawfish are typically harvested from ponds and streams, and they are often a popular item on menus at seafood restaurants and at outdoor festivals.

The water levels in an area can have a significant impact on the crawfish season. Crawfish prefer to live in areas with low-lying, marshy land that is near a permanent source of water. When the water level is too low, the crawfish may not have enough water to survive and the season could be affected.

Similarly, when the water level is too high, the crawfish may not have access to the plants and other food sources they need, which can also negatively impact the season. It is important for the water level to be at an appropriate level for the crawfish to thrive.

In addition to being a delicious food, crawfish season is often a time for socializing and celebrating with friends and family. Crawfish boils, where the crustaceans are boiled with vegetables and spices and served with sides like potatoes and corn on the cob, are a popular way to enjoy crawfish during the season.

Crawfish season typically starts in late January or early February and lasts through early summer, until about July. However, the exact timing of crawfish season can vary depending on the region and the weather.

In some areas, crawfish are available year-round, although they may be more expensive or of lower quality during the off-season. If you are interested in trying crawfish, it is best to check with a local seafood market or restaurant to see when they will be in season in your area.

Temperature can also have an impact on the crawfish season. Crawfish are most active in water temperatures between 50 and 70 degrees F. When the water temperature is too cold, the crawfish will become sluggish and may not be as active, which can affect the length and success of the season.

On the other hand, when the water temperature is too warm, the crawfish may become stressed, which can also impact the season. In general, the best conditions for crawfish are when the water temperature is cool but not too cold, and the weather is wet but not too rainy.

How to cook crawfish

There are many different ways to cook crawfish, but one of the most popular methods and probably the best way is to boil them. Here is a basic recipe for boiling crawfish:

Ingredients:

1-2 pounds of Crawfish per person
Water
Crawfish boil seasoning (such as Zatarain's or Old Bay)
Yellow Onions
Lemons
New Potatoes
Corn on the Cob
Andouille Sausage

Instructions:

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
Add the crawfish boil seasoning and any other desired spices, such as salt and bay leaves, to the pot.
Add the vegetables and sausage to the pot.
Add the crawfish to the pot and stir gently.
Bring the water back to a boil and let the crawfish cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they turn a bright red color.
Turn off the heat and let the crawfish sit in the hot water for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
Drain the crawfish and serve hot, with the vegetables and any desired sides.

Considerations When Cooking Crawfish

Use a rolling boil (meaning the water is heated to the point where it is constantly bubbling and rolling, as opposed to a gentle simmer. ) to ensure that the crawfish cook evenly and are fully cooked. To use a rolling boil to cook crawfish, you will need a large pot or kettle with enough water to cover the crawfish. You should also add seasonings and any other desired ingredients to the water. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then add the crawfish to the pot.

It is important to keep an eye on the pot while the crawfish are cooking, as the boiling water can easily boil over if the heat is too high or if the pot is too full. You may need to adjust the heat or add more water to the pot as needed to maintain a rolling boil.

Once the crawfish are fully cooked, remove them from the pot using a slotted spoon or tongs and place them in a bowl or on a tray to cool. Enjoy the crawfish hot, or allow them to cool before peeling and eating them.

Some crawfish have straight tails while others more curved. There are several reasons why some crawfish may have straight tails while others have curved tails. One reason is that the shape of the tail can be affected by the way the crawfish is cooked. When crawfish are boiled, the heat causes their shells to soften and the muscles in their tails to contract. This can cause the tails to curl up slightly.

Be sure to clean the crawfish thoroughly before cooking to remove any dirt or debris.

tortilla chips and black eyed salad in a white bowl

Where to buy crawfish

Seafood markets and local farms are going to have the best crawfish in terms of commercial options. There are several places where you can buy crawfish:

Seafood markets: Many seafood markets sell live or cooked crawfish. You can call ahead to make sure they have them in stock.
Online retailers: There are a number of online retailers that sell live or frozen crawfish. These can be shipped directly to you.
Local crawfish farms: Some local farms raise crawfish and sell them directly to consumers. You can search online or ask around in your community to find a local source.
Restaurants: Some restaurants serve crawfish during the season. You can call ahead to see if they have them on the menu or if they can sell you live or cooked crawfish to take home.
Festivals: Crawfish festivals are a popular way to celebrate the season and enjoy these crustaceans. Many festivals offer crawfish for sale, either by the pound or in a boil.

Other places you can find fresh crawfish

Here are a few more suggestions for finding high-quality crawfish:

Local festivals: Many areas hold festivals or events that feature crawfish as a main attraction. These events can be a great opportunity to try a variety of crawfish dishes and to find high-quality crawfish.
Local fishing spots: Some local fishing spots may be known for producing high-quality crawfish. If you have a fishing license and are interested in catching your own crawfish, you may be able to find good spots by asking locals or by doing some research online.

How To Select The Best

When buying crawfish, be sure to choose fresh, lively specimens that are not damaged or discolored. Live crawfish should be stored in a cool, moist place until you are ready to cook them. Frozen crawfish should be thawed in the refrigerator or under cold running water before cooking.

When selecting crawfish, there are a few things to consider to ensure you get the best quality:

Look for crawfish that are lively and active. Crawfish that are sluggish or lethargic may be past their prime or may have been mishandled.
Choose crawfish that are a vibrant red color. Crawfish that are pale or yellowish may not be as fresh.
Avoid crawfish that have a strong, ammonia-like smell. This could indicate that the crawfish are old or have not been stored properly.
Check for any damage or discoloration on the shell. Crawfish that have cracks or other blemishes may not be as fresh or flavorful.
Consider the size of the crawfish. Larger crawfish tend to have more meat, while smaller crawfish may be more tender.

Another reason for the difference in tail shape may be genetics. Some crawfish may simply have tails that are naturally more straight or more curved than others.

Regardless of the shape of their tails, crawfish are generally considered to be a tasty and flavorful food. The meat from the tail is often the most prized part of the crawfish, and it can be enjoyed boiled, grilled, or used in a variety of dishes.

Crawfish Prices

The market price of crawfish can vary depending on a number of factors, including the time of year, the location, and the supply and demand. In general, crawfish are more expensive during the peak of the season, which is typically in the spring. They may also be more expensive in areas where they are not commonly found or where the demand is high.

In general, however, crawfish are not considered to be overly expensive food. They are often less expensive than other types of seafood, such as lobster or crab, and are often used as a more affordable alternative in dishes that traditionally feature these more expensive ingredients.

The price of crawfish can also vary depending on how they are sold. Live crawfish are generally less expensive than boiled crawfish, as the process of boiling and preparing the crawfish for consumption adds to the cost. However, boiled crawfish are usually more convenient and require less work to prepare, so the extra cost may be worth it for some consumers.

How To Store Crawfish

If you have live crawfish, it is important to store them properly to keep them fresh. Here are some tips for storing live crawfish:

Keep the crawfish in a cool place, such as a basement or garage. The temperature should be between 45-50°F.
Place the crawfish in a large container, such as a cooler or a plastic tub.
Cover the crawfish with a damp cloth or newspaper to keep them moist. Do not let the cloth or newspaper dry out.
Do not store live crawfish in an airtight container or bag, as they need air to breathe.
If you are not planning to cook the crawfish within a day or two, it is best to place them in a cooler with ice to keep them fresh.

If you have frozen crawfish, it is important to thaw them properly before cooking. To thaw frozen crawfish, place them in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight, or place them in a bowl of cold water. Do not thaw frozen crawfish in the microwave or at room temperature, as this can cause the meat to become tough and overcooked.

Host Your Own Crawfish Boil

If you've never attended a traditional crawfish boil, you're missing out on a good time. Down here in the South we go all in with a traditional boil of pounds of live crawfish, live music, and maybe even some King Cake if it's that time of the year.

We buy pounds of either fresh Louisiana crawfish or what we source from our favorite Southeast Texas crawfish farm. We cook them in a super large boiling pot cooked over a propane burner. whether it's Super Bowl Sunday or just any old early March weekend it's a great way to celebrate.

I ain't ever seen anybody mad about eating some delicious crawfish tails. However, I've seen many arguments breakout about whether sucking the juices from the crawfish head was kosher or not. I'm strictly tails personally.

Recipe Ideas

Besides your traditional crawfish boil, 'crayfish' makes for a great ingredient in other dishes. My favorite crawfish recipes include gumbo, po'boys, as well as a seafood stew made with crawfish and scallops that was delicious and a blackeyed pea salad.