OCEAN CITY MARYLAND CRAB AND CLAM CHARTERS
Looking to expand your harvest beyond traditional fishing? Ocean City Maryland Crab and Clam Charters offer a unique hands-on experience for families, groups, and outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore Ocean City’s rich coastal resources. These charters combine crabbing, clamming, and light fishing in one flexible, fun-filled outing on the water.
WHAT IS A CRAB AND CLAM CHARTER?
Unlike traditional fishing trips, crab and clam charters focus on harvesting shellfish and bottom-dwelling species from Ocean City’s productive bays, creeks, and tidal flats. They’re easy, beginner-friendly, and allow guests to catch Maryland blue crabs, hard clams, and sometimes flounder or croaker—all in one trip.
- Combination of crabbing, clamming, and light fishing
- Operate in calm, shallow bay waters
- Guided by experienced local captains
- Hands-on participation for all ages
- Flexible trip durations: 2, 3, or 4 hours typically
WHAT’S INCLUDED ON A CRAB & CLAM CHARTER?
- Experienced guide and fully licensed captain
- All equipment provided: crab pots, lines, dip nets, rakes, buckets
- Fishing gear for light rod fishing (optional)
- Ice, coolers, and storage for your catch
- Fishing license and shellfish permits included
- Family-friendly instruction for beginners
WHAT CAN YOU CATCH?
- Blue Crabs: Maryland’s iconic summer catch, using traps, handlines, or dip nets
- Hard Clams: Harvested by raking shallow sandy bottoms
- Fishing: Flounder, croaker, sea bass, and other bay species may also be caught
BENEFITS OF A CRAB AND CLAM CHARTER
- Perfect for families, kids, and first-time anglers
- Low-pressure, relaxing pace on calm protected waters
- Catch and cook your own seafood that evening
- Educational for kids learning about the coastal ecosystem
- Private charter options allow full customization of your day
POPULAR CRAB AND CLAM CHARTER OPERATORS
| Operator | Location | Trip Duration | Included | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Back Bay Adventures | 32nd Street Bayside | 2-4 Hours | Crabbing, clamming, fishing gear, guide | Private bay trips, kids welcome, calm waters |
| Assateague Outfitters | Assateague Island | 2-3 Hours | Clam rakes, buckets, dip nets | Eco tours + shellfishing + wildlife viewing |
| OC Bay Fishing | Downtown OC | 3-4 Hours | Crabbing traps, rods, bait, ice, guide | Full mix of crabbing & fishing trips |
WHAT TO BRING WITH YOU
- Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
- Non-slip water shoes or sandals
- Small cooler for transporting your harvest home
- Snacks and drinks (some boats allow BYOB)
- Camera for great scenic photo ops
WHY CHOOSE AN OCEAN CITY CRAB AND CLAM CHARTER?
Ocean City Maryland Crab and Clam Charters offer a fun, educational, and highly interactive experience for all ages. Instead of just fishing, you get hands-on harvesting of the Chesapeake’s signature seafood in a safe, scenic, and peaceful bay environment. These flexible charters are perfect for kids, families, couples, or visitors looking for something different on the water. Make your Ocean City vacation even more memorable by filling your cooler with fresh-caught crabs and clams!