Shore fishing

Cockle harvesting is subject to the opening of shellfish beds by prefectural decree. Consult and download the Prefectural Decree at this link.

Shellfish and plant harvesting on foot in the Bay of Somme is an activity practiced by many professionals. It is also a leisure activity enjoyed by many amateurs. However, the practice remains regulated by regulations concerning the quantities and sizes of shellfish and plants harvested.

Regulations

Shell : minimum size 2.7 cm, maximum quantity authorized per person 5 kg. Authorized tools: hand or claw with three teeth. Find here the cockle fishing decrees
Periwinkle : no minimum size, maximum quantity authorized per person 5 kg. Authorized tool: hand
Knife : minimum size 10 cm, maximum quantity per person 2 kg
Lavagnon : minimum size 3 cm, maximum quantity per person 2 kg
Telline : minimum size 2.5 cm, maximum quantity per person 2 kg
Limpet : no minimum size, maximum quantity per person 5 kg
Mold : minimum size 4 cm, maximum quantity per person 5 kg
Aster : no minimum size, maximum quantity per person 0.5 kg. Authorized tool: knife (tearing prohibited)
Salicornia : no minimum size, maximum quantity per person 0.5 kg. Authorized tool: knife (tearing prohibited)

Professional shore fishermen legally collect the resources of the foreshore, they are the only ones able to resell the product of their fishing.
Shellfish farming provides a living for shellfish farmers and their families, respect marine farming activities. Thus, fishing is prohibited within 25 m of marine culture concessions.

Safety

Find out about the weather and tide times
If you do not know the area, go back at low water time
Don't go alone to an unfamiliar place
Bring a cell phone to be able to reach the emergency services if necessary
Inform yourself regularly and locally about the sanitary and salubrity classification of your fishing grounds, in the prefecture, with the Regional Agency or here