Long Wharf Supply Co.April 06, 2025Comment

Scallop Season at Pocomo Head

Long Wharf Supply Co.April 06, 2025Comment

For centuries, people have come to Nantucket to soak in stunning seaside views and to experience life on an island. Named “a round fishing place” by local natives, Pocomo Head is a unique spit of land that juts out into Nantucket Harbor and is home to a world-famous bay scalloping spot.

Though this harbor hosts vacationers and tourists for most of the summer, It’s the offseason and what lies beneath the water that makes it special. It’s scallop season on Nantucket.

A seasonal delicacy passed down by generations of maritime tradition, these tasty shellfish are tightly guarded by regulations and make for an incredible day on the water with friends. The anticipation rises as you gather your gear and often meet up to head toward a more remote corner of these waters.

There are two methods of local hand harvesting that can be a hotly debated topic if you’re talking shop at the local water hole; diving & snorkeling or raking for scallops.

We jumped in the water off Pocomo to try our luck at finding a little sunset snack and a taste of Nantucket for dinner. It takes most of the year for a healthy population of bay scallops to reach harvest size out here which is why you won’t see them on many menus outside of a few months per year.

Many think offseason water temperatures are what provide a challenge to hand harvesting scallops, but it’s usually wind conditions that make or break your day. After an hour in the water the choppy water conditions rose and it was time to find ourselves a quiet spot to shuck some scallops and get a taste of our fresh catch.

So if you’re looking for a unique experience outside of tourist season, get yourself to Nantucket, check town regulations, respect the locals, and you might just be in for one of the most memorable - and tasty - days of your life!