Shellfish & Clamming
Virginia Shellfish License 2026
Requirements, fees, and regulations for harvesting clams, oysters, and mussels in Virginia. Virginia's Chesapeake Bay and coastal waters support oyster, clam, and mussel harvesting. A VMRC recreational shellfishing license is required for all harvesters.
Clam Season Open
Oyster Available
Mussel Available
2026 License Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Recreational Fee
$25.00
VMRC recreational shellfish license required; commercial requires separate commercial license.
Commercial Fee
$275.00
Commercial license
Daily Limit
1 bushel oysters; 1 bushel hard clams per person per day
Per harvester
Clam Season
Open
Check current closures
Shellfish Species
Shellfish Available in Virginia
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 Virginia
1
Verify Open Areas
Before purchasing a license, check that shellfish beds in your target area are currently open. Virginia Marine Resources Commission 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 Virginia Marine Resources Commission, or in person at authorized license agents throughout Virginia.
Recreational fee: $25.00.
3
Know Your Limits
Daily limit in Virginia: 1 bushel oysters; 1 bushel hard clams per person per day.
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
Virginia Shellfish License Requirements
Virginia VMRC shellfish license required. Harvest only in VMRC-approved open areas.
Important Notes
Virginia-Specific Information
Oyster season typically October 1 – March 31 in most areas.
Source: Virginia Marine Resources Commission (mrc.virginia.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current water quality closures and regulations directly with Virginia Marine Resources Commission before harvesting.