The refuge is one of the best fishing spots on Cape Cod!
A Massachusetts state saltwater fishing license is required. Surf fishing is permitted year-round in designated areas. Available species include striped bass, bluefish and flounder.
The Town of Chatham, where the refuge is located, manages shellfish harvest on the refuge. With a Town permit, visitors can harvest soft shell clams, razor clams, sea clams, and quahogs. These wildlife-dependent recreational opportunities allow people to enjoy the outdoors, and don’t detract from the Service’s fish and wildlife conservation mission.
To protect food sources for shorebirds and waterfowl, horseshoe crab harvest has not been allowed for nearly 20 years, and the refuge has never been open to mussel harvesting.