Wellfleet oysters...it doesn't get any better than this.

Crassostrea virginica, American oyster

Oysters are found on hard, sandy bottom or on rocks and piers.  Most oysters can be picked off the bottom by hand at low tide and others can be harvested with a quahog or box rake. Legal harvest size is 3 inches and a maximum weekly limit of 10 quarts (of all shellfish combined) is allowed.  Serve on the half-shell or in stew.

An oyster bed. 1969. Photograph by Bob Williams.

(National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration Photo Library)

(The above photo is courtesy of the The Guide to Shellfishing in Massachusetts produced by the Massachusetts Shellfish Officers Association and the Barnstable County Cooperative Extension)

The gear you will want to have before you set out on your oystering adventure includes:

An Oyster Ring - This tool is used to measure the oyster to make sure it has fully matured before you harvest it.  The ring may be purchased at your local hardware store or bait and tackle shop.  For more detailed information and a picture of an oyster right click on Legal Gauges.

Prying Tool - A tool to pry the seed oysters off of the mature oyster's shell. When gathering oysters it is very important to take the immature oysters off of the mature oyster's shell. This allows the oysters the opportunity to grow and spawn.  Prying tools are available at local hardware stores or bait and tackle shops. 

Rake - A light three-tined garden cultivator with a three foot handle can be very helpful.  The cultivator helps to eliminate bending over when inspecting potential oysters and in removing partially submerged oysters from muddy or silted bottom.  It also allows for shellfishing before the tide has receded completely and for culling through clustered oysters on a reef. 

Waders - Waders can be useful in keeping you dry and warm while shellfishing.   Army/Navy stores, outdoor sporting shops, bait and tackle, and some discount retailers are good sources for waders.

Gloves - Oyster shells may be sharp.  To protect yourself from the sharp edges it is recommended that you wear gloves. 

Directions to shellfishing spots