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Shellfishing Locations - Greater New Haven CT Area

Connecticut > New Haven South Central > On the Water > Shellfishing
Shellfishing in Connecticut is limited to "approved" and "conditionally approved -- open" areas. People shellfishing for recreation should contact the town health department where they wish to fish to find out where shellfishing is allowed, whether a local license is required, and other local shellfishing laws.

Recreational shellfishing in Connecticut is limited to one-half bushel of shellfish per day taken during only daylight hours. Implements to take shellfish must have a one-inch or greater spacing between the teeth. Recreational shellfish are intended to be consumed by the harvester and family members. Recreational harvesters cannot offer their shellfish for sale or barter.

Recreational scalloping is limited to people who have lived in Connecticut at least one year. Scalloping is restricted by local laws, ordinances or regulations which may require a town scallop license.

Note: There are no approved or conditionally approved areas in Bridgeport, Clinton, East Haven, Ledyard, Montville, New Haven, New London, Old Lyme, Stratford, Westbrook or West Haven, There is one conditionally approved area in Old Saybrook. Shellfishing is not allowed in any fresh water areas.

For more information, see the Online Resource Guide for Connecticut Shellfish and Aquaculture or call the Connecticut Department of Agriculture's Bureau of Aquaculture at 203-874-0696.

Shellfish that may be harvested in Connecticut waters include the Eastern or Atlantic oyster, hard, round, or quahog clam, long, soft-shelled, or steamer clams, razor or jackknife clam, surf clam, blue mussel, whelks, conch, winkles or scungilli, scallop, and bay scallop.

Clinton Shellfish Commission - Clinton, CT
Clinton Shellfish Commission

A recreational license for shellfish in Clinton is required for each person age 13 or older and must be visible at all times while shellfishing. Licenses range from $17-$78.75 (depending on residency and senior/military status) and can be purchased online (convenience fee added) or at one of the following locations (no convenience fee):
  • Town Clerk: Town Hall 54 E Main St. ; 860-669-9101 ; townclerk@clintonct.org
  • Town Marina Dockmaster: 37 Riverside Dr. ; 860-669-7475 (summer only)
A map and list of updated regulations can be viewed here. Excessive rain will trigger closures. Always check open/closed status at our website, or call before you go.
Madison Shellfishing & Clamming

Madison Town Hall, 8 Campus Drive Madison, CT, 06443 Phone: 203-245-5600

Licenses for recreational shellfishing are available at the Town Clerk’s office and authorized agents (usually sporting goods stores). Licenses are required to harvest clams, oysters, and mussels, but not scallops, crabs or lobsters.
Fees: $20 for taxpayers; $10 for senior taxpayers; $75 for non-taxpayers. Licenses are valid for one year from date of issue. Licensed residents may be accompanied by one guest who shares the daily limit.
Limitations: All shellfishing waters are closed for at least one week after a 3-inch rainfall event. Recreational shellfishing is permitted only in approved areas, which may or may not be open depending on rainfall and bacteriological testing. The boundaries between the areas are marked by signs along the shore. - Shellfishing Map
Branford Shellfishing & Clamming

33 Laurel Street Branford, CT, 06405 Phone: 203-488-8394

Permits are available from the Town Clerk's office or from a Shellfish Commission member. Permits are required for any person age 16 or older taking shellfish. Permits are valid for the calendar year they are purchased.
Fees: Resident, $5; non-resident, $50; non-resident daily, $10; Branford seniors age 65 and older, free.
Information: Call 203-315-0678 for current information.
Guilford Shellfishing & Clamming

Guilford Town Hall, 31 Park Street Guilford, CT, 06437 Phone: 203-453-8001

A license for shellfish in Guilford is required for each person age 13 or older. Shellfishing is permitted year-round between sunrise and sunset only.
Permits: Permits can be purchased at Guilford Town Hall Town Clerk Office, 31 Park Street, Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (203-453-8001); Captain Morgan’s Bait and Tackle, 21 Boston Post Road, Madison, (203-245-8665); and Guilford Lobster Pound, 505 Old Whitfield Street, Guilford, (203-453-6122)
Fees: Resident, $20; senior resident, $10; non-resident, $75; daily, $25.
Shellfish hotline: 203-453-8088.
Milford Shellfishing & Clamming

Bureau of Aquaculture, 190 Rogers Avenue Milford, CT Phone: 203-874-0696

Permit is not required for recreational shellfishing in Milford waters. There is no charge for shellfishing. Maps available at the office of the Bureau of Aquaculture in Milford. - Information & Maps