2026 Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab Stock Assessment Update Report
The 2026 benchmark stock assessment was finalized in June 2026 and included data through 2023. This report summarizes the completed stock assessment update, which was conducted in July 2026, incorporating Winter Dredge Survey data through March 2026 and other survey and harvest data through 2025.
Description
In 2026, a new benchmark stock assessment was conducted for Chesapeake Bay blue crabs using a Sex- and Length-structured Assessment Model (SLAM). Each year, this model will be updated with the most recent survey and harvest data, and the estimated abundance of mature male and mature female crabs and fishing mortality of male and female crabs (separately by sex, but across all sizes) will be used to assess blue crab stock status relative to the sex-specific management reference points derived from the assessment. Each spring, the Chesapeake Bay Stock Assessment Committee (CBSAC) will meet to review the results of the latest model update and to develop management recommendations for the upcoming crabbing season. This report summarizes the completed stock assessment update, incorporating Winter Dredge Survey data through March 2026 and other survey and harvest data through 2025.
Category: Report