The Charente coast, from Oleron to Ile de Re offers many opportunities for fishermen at low tide. There are many varieties of crustaceans and shellfish in the department. It is better to research the best spot before you leave, to help you narrow down your search. You will find wild oysters, mussels, shrimp, and scallops at the Gironde estuary's exit, but not near the Seudre where clams are more common. For crabs, sea urchins winkles, limpets and other aquatic creatures, we will prefer the area of La Cotiniere on Oleron. The island's northeast has the most diversity with spiders and cockles, as well as flions. They are easily hidden within a narrow area of Boyardville beach. You must be careful not to interfere with the Moeze-Oleron nature preserve, which covers the southeast side, Chateau-d’Oleron to Boyardville.
If you are not sure if your target beach falls within the prohibited fishing areas, make sure to contact the prefecture and the town hall. Sometimes, shellfish can become contaminated with bacteria and fishing may be temporarily banned. Regulations also apply to the tools used. Hand picking oysters, crabs scallops, and tellines is allowed. Grapette is best for cockles, mussels and clams. The knife can be used for the latter. A plastic ruler, available in tourist offices, will help you determine which shells you can take with you.
We arrive at the scene at low tide or falling tide to follow it. We pay attention to the surrounding environment. Nathan Ropers, Littoral mission coordinator at the Permanent Center for Environmental Initiatives (Marennes-Oleron), warns that you should not lift stones too much and place them in a well-organized manner. You should also be careful not to drag the seaweed along the foreshore. These are vital habitats for the delicate marine fauna.
