#Oysters October 21

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On this date in 1869 the first recorded overland shipment of OYSTERS took place from Baltimore.

There is a “Rule of Thumb” about eating wild OYSTERS. It says it only show occur in months that have a R. That translates from September to April. There was a study done off the coast of St. Catherine’s Island that is validating this practice may have been going on for some 4,000 years.

So where do you find wild OYSTERS? They live in salty or brackish waters on all U.S. coasts, clustering on older shells, rock, piers, or any hard, submerged surface. They fuse together as they grow, forming rock-like reefs that provide habitat for other marine animals and plants.

Recreational Harvest of Oysters in North Carolina

Those who harvest oysters for recreational purposes do not need a license from the Division of Marine Fisheries. Recreational harvest means the oysters harvested are for personal use and may not be sold to another individual or business.

Oysters must be at least 3 inches in length and the creel limit is 1 bushel per person per day, not to exceed 2 bushels per vessel (regardless of how many people are on the boat).

Recreational Harvest of Oysters in South Carolina

I know quite a few friends that have second home in the Grand Strand area. South Carolina laws pertaining to OYSTERS differs from North Carolina. They do require a $10.00 saltwater license and you will need a map of permissible oyster grounds for recreational harvest. In both states you need to monitor the water quality which may prohibit or restrict any harvesting.

How to Harvest Oysters

It is messy work and being dressed and protected is important. Obviously you need to do it during low tide when the oysters beds are visible. I was able to locate a SC DNR produced video featuring Michael Hodges, fisheries biologist for SC DNR. It is a little dated but it covers what you need to know and bring to harvest OYSTERS.