While the oil spill in the Gulf severely hurt Florida’s fishing industry, there is some good news -- with so much rain, this is shaping up to be a good year for blue crab.

“Our fishermen tell us that blue crabs are running larger than normal and are in excellent supply,” said Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Charles Bronson. “Blue crab populations tend to dip during drought years, but they rebound when the rains return. Ample rainfall this spring and summer means there’s been plenty of fresh water flowing into our bays and estuaries, creating ideal conditions for this prized species.

“This is a good year for blue crabs, and now is the best time to enjoy them,” added Bronson. “Harvest peaks annually in summer and fall.”

The bulk of blue crab caught in state waters comes from Citrus, Duval and Wakulla counties, and brings in $6 million a year for Florida fishermen.