Foraging Mussels
The easy street to self-sustaining.
If you haven't been mussel foraging, it's easier than you think - I guarantee it. All that it requires is a little bit of forethought, gloves, and a bucket. The last time I went to Baker Beach in San Francisco and there were tons of mussels clinging to a few rocks and our buckets were filled in no time. Yes, the mussels can be a bit rugged in texture, but believe me, they're worth it! Here's what you need to know and do before you forage mussels in California:
Only go during the months from November to April. From May to October mussels are quarantined due to potential paralytic shellfish poisoning - not something you want to mess with.
Call the California Shellfish Biotoxin Information Line at 1-800-553-4133 to double check that waters are safe at the time that you plan to go (sometimes the quarantine for longer periods depending on weather and water conditions).
Stop by a drugstore and pick up a one-day fishing permit or purchase one online from the CA Department of Fish and Wildlife and bring it with you, otherwise you are subject to fines.
Go at low tide: Foraging mussels is best at low tide and mussels can often be found clinging to rocks near the water.
Mussels can only be pulled by hand, do not use other instruments, such as screwdrivers or crowbars.
Bring: Thick gloves, as the mussels can be sharp and a bucket, to hold your booty.
There is a collection limit of 10 pounds (in the shell) per permitted collector per day.
For more information about regulations, visit the CA Department of Fish and Wildlife.
