photo by Julie Aagaard

On Martha’s Vineyard, seafood is more than just a meal. It is a way of life. The Island’s culture, economy, and culinary scene are deeply tied to the waters that surround it. Among the many seafood treasures harvested here, bay scallops hold a special place in the hearts of both locals and visitors. Sweet, tender, and uniquely fresh, these little gems are a hallmark of the Island’s fall and winter bounty.

Understanding the Scallops of Martha’s Vineyard

When we talk about New England scallops, it is important to understand the difference between the two main types. Sea scallops are larger and available year-round, and while they are delicious, the true seasonal delight is the bay scallop. These smaller scallops, sometimes called Cape scallops, are only available a few months each year. Their tender texture, natural sweetness, and delicate flavor make them highly sought after by chefs and seafood enthusiasts alike. For many visitors to Martha’s Vineyard, tasting a freshly harvested bay scallop is a quintessential Island experience.

Where and How Scalloping Happens on the Island

From October through March, travelers exploring Martha’s Vineyard may notice small-scale scalloping operations in the Island’s ponds, harbors, and lagoons. This activity is a charming glimpse into a centuries-old local tradition. Some fishermen wade through shallow waters with long rakes or nets, carefully harvesting the scallops by hand. Others work from boats, using dredges to gather the scallops from eelgrass beds below the surface. On rare occasions, lucky observers might even see a fisherman pluck a scallop from the water and enjoy it raw. For those who have not experienced it before, the taste is nothing short of transformative: creamy, sweet, and distinctly fresh.

Catching Your Own Bay Scallops

If you are a hands-on traveler or just craving the ultimate local experience, Martha’s Vineyard allows visitors to participate in recreational scalloping, but with important rules in place to preserve the Island’s delicate marine ecosystem. All scallop harvesters, recreational or commercial, must have a shellfish permit. These permits are issued by the town you are staying in, whether that is Vineyard Haven, Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, Chilmark, West Tisbury, or Aquinnah.

Each town has its own shellfish department and a shellfish constable whose job is to enforce regulations, provide guidance to the public, and announce important updates such as season openings and restricted areas. Following these rules ensures the sustainability of scallops and protects the Island’s marine habitats for future generations.

In Vineyard Haven, for example, the harbor, home to the Steamship Authority’s ferry terminal and the iconic Black Dog Tavern, is open to both recreational and commercial permit holders. The nearby Lagoon Pond also offers prime scalloping waters. This year, the Tisbury shellfish constable adjusted the season dates due to unusually warm water temperatures, demonstrating the careful attention paid to the delicate balance of the ecosystem. For anyone planning to scallop, dressing for cold waters is essential. Hypothermia is a real risk, so proper gear such as wetsuits, gloves, and boots is highly recommended.

Sustainability and Size Regulations

Massachusetts law sets strict minimum sizes for scallops to ensure that the population remains sustainable. Any scallops below the legal size, known as “seed,” must be returned to the water. This allows them to reach maturity, typically surviving two summers before they are ready to harvest. Legal adult scallops can be identified by a raised growth line on their shells, a small detail that seasoned fishermen know well. Most scallops reside in eelgrass beds, where they are carefully harvested using drags or nets. Patient fishermen sift through their catch, selecting only the scallops that are fully grown and ready to enjoy.

Where to Enjoy Martha’s Vineyard Bay Scallops

For travelers who prefer to savor the flavors without the work, Martha’s Vineyard offers a bounty of opportunities to taste local bay scallops at restaurants and fish markets across the Island. From fine dining establishments to casual seafood shacks, you can find fresh, locally harvested scallops prepared in a variety of ways, pan-seared, baked, in pasta, or simply served with a squeeze of lemon to let the natural sweetness shine. 

Visiting these restaurants is not just a culinary experience; it is a way to connect with the Island’s history and culture. Every scallop on your plate represents the hard work, expertise, and deep knowledge of the local fishermen who know these waters intimately. Sampling bay scallops on Martha’s Vineyard is therefore more than a meal; it is an immersion into the Island lifestyle.

Tips for Travelers Interested in Scalloping

If you are planning a trip to Martha’s Vineyard during scallop season, there are a few things you should know to make the most of your visit:

1. Get Your Permit Early: If you plan to scallop yourself, check the town websites for permit details and availability. Each town, including Vineyard Haven, Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, Chilmark, West Tisbury, and Aquinnah, provides information on regulations and seasonal openings. 
2. Dress Appropriately: Even on crisp fall or winter days, the water can be icy. Waders, gloves, and a warm layer are essential for safety and comfort. 
3. Learn the Rules: Scallop sizes, seasonal restrictions, and areas open to harvesting are regulated by state and town authorities. Follow these rules to ensure a sustainable experience. 
4. Savor the Moment: Whether you are harvesting or dining, take the time to appreciate the freshness and unique flavor of Island scallops. They are a fleeting treat, only available during certain months, making the experience all the more special. 
5. Explore Beyond Scallops: Martha’s Vineyard is more than just seafood. Plan to explore charming towns, pristine beaches, scenic lighthouses, and nature preserves. Pairing a scallop-focused excursion with Island exploration creates an unforgettable travel experience. 

Experience the True Flavor of the Island

Scallop season on Martha’s Vineyard is a perfect reason to visit the Island. It offers travelers a chance to engage with local traditions, experience the beauty of the coastal waters, and indulge in one of the freshest seafood delicacies available anywhere. Whether you are an adventurous scalloper or a foodie eager to taste the fruits of the harvest, this season brings the Island’s culture and cuisine to life in an unparalleled way.

From wandering the harbors to sampling scallops in a cozy restaurant, from learning about the regulations that protect this delicate ecosystem to witnessing the skill of local fishermen firsthand, scallop season provides a lens into the heart of Martha’s Vineyard. It is a reminder that the Island’s charm is not only in its scenery but in the dedication of the people who call it home and care for its waters.

So plan your trip, grab a permit if you want hands-on experience, or simply sit back and enjoy the bounty that the waters of Martha’s Vineyard have to offer. Rejoice, it is scallop season, and there is no better place to experience it than here on the Island.