As of 2023, there are 474 aquaculture operations and growing! With so many operations, there are plenty of varieties to try from salty delights like the Salty Buoys from Fallen Pine Oyster Company in Havre de Grace or more mild oysters like the Eastern oyster from the 38 North Oysters in Southern Maryland. Contrary to popular belief, Maryland oysters are available year-round and you no longer have to wait for an “r” month. Whether you shuck at home or are looking for a place to enjoy, make sure you ask for Maryland oysters. Supporting the oyster population in the Chesapeake Bay contributes to the health of the overall Bay and supports the local economy – in fact, the estimated economic impact in 2022 was $13,335,525.63!
Oysters are also nature’s “filters” and play a vital role in the ecosystem. Check out this video supplied by the Oyster Recovery Partnership on the effectiveness of oysters in the water!
Speaking of the Oyster Recovery Partnership (ORP), did you know they recycle oyster shells and use them to plant new water-filtering oysters back into Maryland’s portion of the Chesapeake Bay?? You can help by dining at one of the 200+ restaurants that recycle shells in ORP’s program or taking shells from oysters you consume at home to one of 70 public recycling drop sites. This is a deliciously simple way to help with Bay recovery efforts!
Enjoying Maryland Oysters at Home instead?
Check out these Maryland companies who sell direct.
Annapolis Oyster Company – Grown on the Severn River, these oysters are available year-round and offer three styles: Skippies (2”), Mids (3”), and Priests (4”). Call or email to order or find them at farmers markets!
Baywater Seafood – Oysters and scallops can be found here at this Southern Maryland company. Call or text your order anytime, 443-880-2753!
Chester River Seafood – offers Maryland oysters, crabs, fish, and more. Check their facebook page for details, or call them to place an order. Will ship and also has a store, 4954 Ashley Rd, Rock Hall, MD, United States, Maryland.
The Choptank Oyster Company – Like many oyster varieties, our own “Choptank Sweets” take their name from the body of water in which they are grown. The Choptank River is a major tributary of the Chesapeake Bay on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, a region with a rich history and tradition of oystering. Pick-up and shipping available.
Coastal Maryland Oyster Co – if you like salty, make sure you hit up William and order some of his oysters from the Chincoteague. Call him at 443-497-3648 or visit his facebook page
Double T Oysters – offers shell, shucked, and smoked (delicious!!!). Available via shipping, pick-up in Annapolis or in Tall Timbers, MD.
Harris Creek Oyster Company – Available at their farm stand in St. Michael’s!
Orchard Point Oyster Company – Available online at Shuck Shop™ Baby! — ORCHARD POINT OYSTER CO.
Shore Thing Shellfish – offers pick-up in Tall Timbers, MD. Visit the online store or call 240-538-1336.
True Chesapeake Oyster Co. – Skinny Dippers will be your new favorites once you’ve tried them! Pre-order online for pick-up at the restaurant in Hampden.
Tips on Buying, Cleaning, and Shucking
Use the videos and links below to learn the best ways to buy, clean and shuck this tasty seafood!
How to Buy Oysters
Buying Guide- Maryland Oysters
How to Clean Oysters
Wild oysters may need a quick rinse if they’re muddy, scrubbing with a brush if needed before you shuck, as Chef Gwyn demonstrates! (Using a hose outdoors is a great idea too!) Watch the video linked below.
How to Shuck Oysters
Opening oysters is a snap once you get the hang of it. Make sure to wear a glove or wrap your hand with a towel before beginning. Watch the video linked below to see a proper technique of how to shuck an oyster without losing the juice that gives them their delicious taste!
