Everything you need to know about shellfish gathering in the Vendée region

Noirmoutier-en-l'Île
Food Lovers

Shore fishing is a typical activity in the Vendée region. We explain why, how it works, and where to practice it.

Shore fishing has been practiced in the Vendée region since time immemorial. This is understandable, as shellfish are a significant food source along the coast. Today, the mollusks we consume are farmed by oyster farmers. It has therefore become a leisure activity, very popular with families. We'll tell you everything you need to know about shore fishing in the Vendée to help you plan your next outings.

What is shore fishing?

Shore fishing involves collecting shellfish, whether attached to rocks or buried in the sand, as well as catching shrimp trapped in the pools of water that appear when the sea recedes at low tide. The aim is to harvest cockles, clams, tellins, mussels, oysters, scallops, periwinkles, razor clams, sea urchins, shrimp… The choice is yours!

Some food lovers enjoy it to savor delicious, freshly caught seafood. Hikers add a fishing trip to their walks along the beautiful Vendée beaches. For others, it's an educational and family activity that allows them to introduce children to shellfish and encourage them to try Vendée's culinary specialties later on.

Best practices for shore fishing

You can go shellfish gathering year-round, except for abalone, scallops, and sea urchins, and only if the weather is favorable. It can be a time-consuming activity, especially for families. So, it's best to check that rain doesn't interrupt your fishing trip, or you risk returning empty-handed and the children disappointed. Those in the know will tell you that the fishing can be miraculous during spring tides, with coefficients above 90. In any case, be sure to check the tide times beforehand, as the sea can rise very quickly and catch you out!

Beware of the Tide!

Also remember to equip yourself properly.

A pair of boots is very useful to avoid getting your feet wet in a puddle. Otherwise, at least wear good shoes for walking on steep or slippery rocks.
A waterproof jacket can be useful if it's windy, to protect you from sea spray.
Sunglasses, a hat and sunscreen are essential for children, as the glare is strong.
Don't forget your mobile phone to call for help or to find each other. Consider using a waterproof case. It's always better to be prepared...
Gloves are sometimes necessary to avoid injury from the shells.

As for equipment, you can buy a small fishing kit for a few euros. In addition, you will need:

A knife for removing the shells;
A basket if you are looking for shellfish or a bucket if you are fishing for shrimp.

If you don't opt for a ready-made kit, all you need is a small shovel, a scraper or spoon to dig up certain mollusks that bury themselves in the sand, and a net for shrimp. Most importantly, you must buy a fishing measuring gauge. This allows you to measure the size of your catch (the regulations are very strict on this point!).

Having the right equipment is important

While shellfish gathering is a very enjoyable pastime, it's essential to respect certain rules to protect the environment, wildlife, and vegetation. Some species are protected during their breeding seasons. You must check the size of shellfish to avoid collecting undersized specimens. If you move seaweed or rocks, remember to put them back in their original place. A list of permitted equipment is also provided to prevent damage to the natural environment. To learn about the current regulations, consult the Vendée recreational shellfish gathering website.

The best spots for shore fishing

In the Marais Breton Vendéen, along the beaches or on the coastal rocks, there are numerous areas for shellfish gathering in the Vendée region. Here are the most renowned spots:

Around the island of Noirmoutier : the Passage du Gois or the area around the bridge and the Fromentine.
In Saint-Jean-de-Monts : the Davière beach.
The large beach of Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie.
The beaches of Brétignolles-sur-Mer.
Between Les Sables d'Olonne and Talmont-Saint-Hilaire : Veillon beach.
Around Jard-sur-Mer : the beaches of Ragounite, Bouil, Rocher and Conches…
The tip of Grouin du Cou in La Tranche-sur-Mer.

Of course, there are other spots, but the locals of the Vendée rarely reveal their best locations… In any case, do not fish near oyster farms. Also, pay attention to the signs along the beaches. Fishing is sometimes prohibited due to toxic algae blooms. Otherwise, remember to check the ARS website from time to time.