Experience BaysGiving: Shellfishing and Quahog Boil at Onset Bay Center in Wareham, Massachusetts
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most adults and teens with moderate mobility; involves walking in muddy flats and boat boarding.
Overview
Join the BaysGiving event at Onset Bay Center in Wareham, MA, to learn shellfishing on Burgess Point and enjoy a savory quahog boil. Dive into local tradition and community celebration on Buzzards Bay!
*BaysGiving: Shellfishing and Quahog Boil*
Free Community Event
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About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of shellfishing at the BaysGiving event at Onset Bay Center! Join us for a boat ride to Burgess Point, learn to harvest quahogs, and enjoy a delicious feast prepared with a local chef. This unique opportunity combines hands-on learning with community spirit, all while supporting local seniors.
Join us for a BaysGiving shellfishing and quahog boil at the Onset Bay Center!
3:00-5:00pm: Take a boat ride over to Burgess Point, step into some waders, and learn how to shellfish for quahogs! After the harvest, head back to Onset Bay Center to learn how to prepare the quahogs, with help from a local chef, and, of course, feast on what we've made (approx. 5:30-6:30pm)! We will also be serving members from the Wareham Council on Aging with our catch. Each participant will get to enjoy a few fresh quahogs (depending on what we've harvested) as well as a pre-made stuffed quahog.
This event is free and open to all participants age 13+.
All equipment is provided. Please wear comfortable clothing and warm layers. Participants will have the opportunity to wear waders when they enter the water or go in without and will be guided through the activities by Onset Bay Center staff.
Wareham Department of Natural Resources and Harbormaster will be onsite with us as well to help guide the program and share insight into local shellfishing rules and regulations.
This event is made possible by Wareham Cultural Council and Mass Cultural Council grant funding.
Adventure Tips
Bring Waterproof Footwear
Wear sturdy waterproof boots or shoes for walking in tidal flats during shellfish harvesting.
Arrive Early for Safety Briefing
Show up on time to receive a full safety and shellfishing orientation before heading out on the boat.
Protect Yourself from the Sun
Use sunscreen and wear a hat since you'll spend time exposed on the water and flats.
Follow Local Shellfishing Regulations
Respect the sustainable harvesting guidelines shared by the guides to protect Buzzards Bay's ecosystem.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great blue heron
- Diamondback terrapin turtles
History
Buzzards Bay was historically significant for Native American tribes and later became a major center for commercial shellfishing and maritime trade in Massachusetts.
Conservation
The event promotes sustainable shellfishing practices to protect Buzzards Bay’s water quality and shellfish populations for future generations.
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Adventure Hotspots in Wareham
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Boots
Essential for navigating the muddy tidal flats comfortably and safely in spring.
spring specific
Sun Protection
Sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat help protect from harsh midday sun exposure on the water.
summer specific
Light Jacket
A windbreaker keeps you comfortable during cooler breezes common in fall coastal weather.
fall specific
Gloves
Waterproof gloves help keep hands warm and dry if the event runs in colder months.
winter specific