Shellfish & Clamming
Minnesota Shellfish License 2026
Requirements, fees, and regulations for harvesting clams, oysters, and mussels in Minnesota. Minnesota borders Lake Superior but has no open recreational shellfish season. Native freshwater mussels in Minnesota rivers and Great Lakes waters are largely protected under state and federal Endangered Species Act provisions. No commercial or recreational shellfish harvest is permitted.
2026 License Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Recreational Fee
Check agency
No recreational shellfish licensing; native mussels are protected species.
Commercial Fee
Varies
Contact agency
Daily Limit
See regs
Per harvester
Clam Season
Closed
Check current closures
Shellfish Species
Shellfish Available in Minnesota
Species availability depends on coastal habitat, water quality, and active management programs.
Clams
Oysters
Mussels
Step-by-Step
How to Get a Shellfish License in Minnesota
1
Verify Open Areas
Before purchasing a license, check that shellfish beds in your target area are currently open. Minnesota Dept. of Natural Resources maintains an up-to-date list of approved harvesting areas. Water quality closures can occur quickly after rain events.
2
Purchase Your License
Purchase online at Minnesota Dept. of Natural Resources, or in person at authorized license agents throughout Minnesota.
3
Know Your Limits
Review the current daily bag limits for your target species.
Size minimums also apply — undersized shellfish must be returned to the water. Keep your license on your person while harvesting.
4
Harvest Responsibly
Use appropriate gear (clam rakes, oyster tongs) and handle shellfish carefully to minimize disturbance to the surrounding habitat. Replace any rocks or substrate you disturb and never harvest from closed or unclassified waters.
Requirements
Minnesota Shellfish License Requirements
Harvest of native freshwater mussels is prohibited. State and federal ESA protections apply.
Important Notes
Minnesota-Specific Information
Zebra mussel invasions in Minnesota waters pose an ongoing threat to native mussel populations. MN DNR enforces strict aquatic invasive species regulations.
Source: Minnesota Dept. of Natural Resources (www.dnr.state.mn.us).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current water quality closures and regulations directly with Minnesota Dept. of Natural Resources before harvesting.