Species Available for Recreational Harvest in Connecticut
oyster

Eastern or Atlantic oyster (Crassostrea virginica), also known as the "Blue Point Oyster." (Recreational size minimum 3.0")

Hard, Round or Quahog ClamHard, Round, or Quahog clam (Mercenaria mercenaria). Commercial market terms by size large to small: Chowders->3", Cherrystones-2.5"-3", Necks (little and top) 1.5"-2.5". (Recreational size minimum 1.5" long or 1.0" thick)

Long, Soft-Shelled or Steamer Clam

Long, Soft-shelled, or Steamer clams (Mya arenaria) (Recreational minimum size 1.5" long.)

Razor or Jacknife ClamRazor or Jackknife clam (Encis directus) (Recreational minimum size 1.5” long.)

Drawing of a surf clam.

Surf Clam (Spisula solidissima) (Recreational minimum size 1.5” long.)

mussel

Blue Mussel (Mytilus edulis) (The ribbed mussel has raised lines across its shell and is considered inedible. There are no size restrictions.)

conchWhelks, Conch, Winkles or Scungilli (Busycon species) Limit of one half bushel per day for recreational harvesting. More than a half bushel requires a license from DA/BA.

scallop

Scallop, Bay Scallop (Argopectin irradians irradians)