Aquaculture & Commercial Fishing
From Beach to Bay in the LESMD Region
From early native American communities and Crisfield’s 19th Century reputation as the “Seafood Capital of the World” to 21st Century regulated management practices – oysters, blue crabs and striped bass (rockfish) have formed the backbone of commercial fishing operations in the LESMD Region. Aquaculture, often referred to as farming the water, serves as an important role in sustainable seafood production and the preservation of the natural aquatic ecosystem.
The LESMD Region as a seafood and aquaculture producer annually contributes over $120 million to the state economy (34% of state Seafood and Aquaculture impact), supports 988 jobs (29.6% of state Seafood and Aquaculture job impact), and adds over $4 million in combined state and local tax revenue (29.6% of state Seafood and Aquaculture tax impact). See The Impact of Resource Based Industries on the Maryland Economy 2018.
Some of the LESMD Aquaculture & Commercial Fishing Companies
The Metompkin Bay Oyster Company
Headquartered in Somerset County, the Metompkin Bay Oyster Company is a major processor of oysters, softshell crabs, and crabmeat. It not only serves as a source for locally harvested seafood but also as a steady employer for the region.
Metompkin Seafood
Scotts Landing Shellfish, LLC
A seafood wholesaler and retailer located in Worcester County, Scotts Landing Shellfish, LLC grows and harvests oysters and crabs in waters of the Brockatonorton Bay. Additionally, they provide fresh seafood to local restaurants in the region.
Scotts Landing Shellfish
Handy Seafood
Handy Seafood has a worldwide reach but is deeply rooted in the Lower Eastern Shore. Between its headquarters in Wicomico County and its original processing facility in Somerset County, Handy Seafood serves as a regional resource for employment, locally produced seafood, and support to area watermen.
Handy Seafood
Market Value of Products Sold, $
