Answer
Maryland blue crabs need mallet picking and yield sweet lump from shells; crab legs arrive pre-cracked for fork eating—use blue crabs for classic Chesapeake feasts and legs when kids skip picking skill.
Sources: Visit Ocean City · Maryland DNR
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.
