To harvest shellfish along the coast of Massachusetts, you will need to get a permit from the town in which you'd like to fish.  For recreational shellfishing, this is the only permit you will need.  Commercial fishermen will also need a state permit to sell their catch.

• What kind of permit should I purchase?

• How do I get a permit and how much does it cost?

Beyond obtaining a permit, you will be required to obey the local and state regulations.  Many towns provide a condensed version of these regulations with your permit.

• Town Regulations
• Town Temporary Regulations
• State Regulations

You'll also want to obtain a gauge (to measure your shellfish to ensure that they are of minimum legal size), a bucket, and some type of rake.

• What are the proper tools needed for shellfishing?

Of course, be prepared to spend some time looking for the perfect shellfishing spot.

• How do I get to areas where I can shellfish?

Once you have your catch, you will want to properly care for your shellfish.  Also, you may want to shuck them or find new ways to prepare them.  Enjoy!

• What is the proper care for shellfish once I catch them?
• How do I shuck oysters or clams?
• Recipes