When Can You Harvest What?

Seasons exist to protect breeding populations. Here's the at-a-glance version:

Species Jan-Mar Apr-Jun 14 Jun 15-Sep 15 Sep 16-30 Oct-Dec
Bay Scallops OPEN Closed Closed Closed OPEN
Quahogs (Hard Clams) OPEN OPEN OPEN OPEN OPEN
Oysters OPEN OPEN OPEN OPEN OPEN
Soft-Shell Clams OPEN OPEN CLOSED OPEN OPEN
Razor Clams OPEN OPEN CLOSED OPEN OPEN

Note: Areas may close temporarily due to water quality (red tide) or other conditions. Always check current closures before heading out.

The Scalloping Experience

If you're visiting October through March, scalloping is a quintessentially Nantucket experience you shouldn't miss.

Opening Day: October 1

Scallop season opens at sunrise on October 1st, and it's a thing. Locals wake before dawn, don wetsuits or waders, and head to the harbors. By 8am, boats dot the water and people wade chest-deep, scooping scallops into floating baskets. It's part tradition, part competition, part community event. Even if you don't participate, it's worth watching.

What It's Like

You wade into shallow harbor water (typically waist to chest deep), peer through the surface for scallops resting on the sandy bottom, and scoop them up with a dip net. It's peaceful, surprisingly fun, and deeply satisfying when you're eating your catch that evening.

What You'll Need

  • Wetsuit or chest waders — the water is cold, especially in October
  • Dip net — for scooping scallops off the bottom
  • Floating basket or mesh bag — to hold your catch
  • Mask and snorkel — optional but helpful for spotting
  • Your permit — carry it with you

Don't have gear? Some island shops rent or sell scalloping equipment seasonally. Ask at the permit office for current options.

Getting Started: Step by Step

1
Get Your Permit

4 Fairgrounds Road, M-F 8am-4pm. Bring valid ID. Weekly permit is $50.

2
Check Current Closures

Call Natural Resources (508-228-7230) or check the town website for any closed areas.

3
Get Gear

For clamming: rake and bucket. For scalloping: waders, dip net, floating basket.

4
Pick Your Spot

See "Where to Go" below. Ask at the permit office—they'll point you in the right direction.

5
Go Harvest (and Enjoy) Your Dinner

Respect daily limits, return undersized catch, and clean up after yourself.

Where to Go

For Shellfishing

  • Madaket Harbor — Popular for quahogs and soft-shell clams. Park at Madaket Beach and walk to the harbor side.
  • Polpis Harbor — Good scalloping and quahogs. Less crowded than some spots.
  • Head of the Harbor — Various species. Check current conditions.
  • Nantucket Harbor — Convenient if you're in town. Multiple access points.

For Surf Fishing

  • Great Point — The island's premier fishing spot. 4WD required; Trustees permit needed to drive out.
  • Smith's Point — Excellent for stripers, bluefish, and bonito. Town beach permit for driving.
  • Surfside Beach — Walk-on access. Good surf fishing without needing a vehicle.
  • Eel Point — Quieter spot with good shore fishing.
  • Madaket Beach — Stripers love it here, especially around sunset.

Surf Fishing

Nantucket offers some of the best surf fishing in New England. You don't need a boat—just a rod, a state license, and some patience.

What's Running When

Species Best Months Notes
Striped Bass May - October Peak in June and September
Bluefish June - October Aggressive fighters; bring wire leader
Bonito August - October Fast and fun; great eating
False Albacore September - October Challenging catch; fall specialty

State Saltwater License

Massachusetts requires a recreational saltwater fishing permit for ages 16-59. It's $10 annually and takes 5 minutes to get online.

Get Your License Online →

Rules to Know

These protect the resource (and keep you out of trouble):

  • Daily limits — Each species has a daily catch limit. You'll get specifics when you pick up your permit.
  • Size limits — Undersized shellfish must go back. Bring a gauge or ask for one with your permit.
  • Hours — Shellfishing typically sunrise to sunset only.
  • Carry your permit — Wardens do check. No permit = fines + confiscated catch.
  • Respect closures — Areas close for good reasons (water quality, conservation). Don't harvest from closed areas.
  • Private grants — Marked oyster areas are private. Stay out.