Core Insights - Zhejiang province is set to resume fishing activities after a long moratorium, with the first batch of Donghai hairy crabs expected to be shipped nationwide, known for their rich and sweet meat [1][12] - The seafood market in Zhejiang is diverse, with a wide range of species available, including hairtail, pomfret, yellow croaker, and squid, which will be available from September onwards [3][10] - Zhejiang boasts the largest fishing ground in China, with a sea area of 260,000 square kilometers, leading to a catch volume of hairtail and hairy crabs that is twice that of the second-ranking province [8][10] Seafood Variety - Zhejiang is recognized for its rich seafood culture, with historical evidence of seafood consumption dating back 8,000 years, making it a significant region for seafood in China [10][11] - The province has a coastline of 2,254 kilometers and is home to 3,059 islands, accounting for 44% of China's total islands, contributing to its seafood abundance [10][11] - The local cuisine features various cooking methods for crabs, with the most popular being dry frying without any seasoning, highlighting the quality of the ingredients [14][18] Crab Specialties - The hairy crab from Zhoushan is the most significant catch in Zhejiang, with the season starting in early August, ahead of other regions [12][14] - The local preference for cooking methods emphasizes simplicity, allowing the natural flavors of the crab to shine through [14][18] - In addition to hairy crabs, the region also produces the exquisite Qing crab, known for its fragrant meat and rich crab roe [16][20] Fish and Other Seafood - Zhejiang is famous for its yellow croaker, which has a historical catch record of 168,100 tons in 1974, but has since become rare due to overfishing [21][22] - The province also produces a variety of fish, including eel, mackerel, and flathead, with the local catch being fresher due to geographical advantages [23][24] - The diverse shellfish population along the coast includes 614 species, with various cooking styles that cater to local tastes [27][28] Regional Culinary Styles - Different regions within Zhejiang have unique culinary styles, such as Wenzhou's emphasis on light and fresh flavors, Ningbo's combination of salty and fresh, and Taizhou's focus on local snacks [34][40][43] - Wenzhou cuisine is known for its delicate seafood dishes, while Ningbo cuisine features a balance of flavors using local ingredients [35][41] - Taizhou's seafood offerings are accessible and diverse, with local snacks showcasing the region's rich seafood heritage [48][49]