I figure this is the best place I could place this question.
Our shrimping trip was delayed by Florence until this week. I noticed that Oyster season is open in some places. I have no idea about how to gather them. Can any of the CF followers provide tips such as:
Foot wear
Tools
Locations around the Awendaw area
General information.
Thanks
There’s a video on the DNR website that details how to harvest oysters. You could check that or on youtube.
Just make sure you’re on state or public oyster beds. If you’re not sure, here’s a link to maps http://www.dnr.sc.gov/marine/shellfish/shellfishmaps.html
State beds are marked with an “S” and public beds are marked with an “R”. If they aren’t marked, consider them private or commercial.
Almost all, if not all, of Bulls Bay is state grounds as is all of the ICW from just north of Isle of Palms to just above Garris landing. http://www.dnr.sc.gov/marine/shellfish/charlestonnorth.html
As for tools, etc., I use a welder’s chipping hammer, wear knee high rubber boots, and leather work gloves. I like to go close to low tide and harvest oysters near the water line. These are the ones that spend more time submerged, but it limits my harvesting time. Carry a bucket and pick up clusters. I use the hammer to break off the ones that I don’t want. Ideally, I would like to pick up large singles, doubles, or triples and not mess with the larger clusters. I keep a wash tub in the boat and empty my bucket into it.
-The size of a fish is directly proportional to the time between when it’s lost and the story is told. - Me
-What’s the best eating fish, you ask? I’ve found that for a lot people, its the ones that they happen to be able to catch, clean, and cook. - My Dad (1/13/37 - 9/27/16 I love you Pops)
-Until you have loved a dog, part of your soul remains unawakened. Anatole France (paraphrased)
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-Team Gonna Fish
Thank you all for your assistance