Answer
Peak availability tracks water temperature and molting cycles from roughly late spring through summer—not a single calendar opening day. Menus post “soft-shell special” when processors supply peelers. Holiday weekends exhaust supply quickly; call restaurants before you drive.
Sources: Maryland DNR · Visit Ocean City
Editorial visitor guidance for Ocean City, Maryland. Confirm current Town of Ocean City, Maryland DNR, NPS Assateague, and NWS rules when regulations or safety apply.
