Clam Harvesting & Cooking Adventure: Bodega Bay

Join veteran fisherman Steve Conwell on an exciting clam harvesting and cooking adventure in scenic Bodega or Tomales Bay, CA! As you set out to the clam beds with a small group of fellow clam enthusiasts, Steve shares his wealth of knowledge about the native clam species that thrive in the bay, including the prized Washington and Pacific littleneck clams.

You'll learn how to identify the best clam beds, how to properly harvest clams using sustainable methods, and how to handle the clams safely. Steve's deep connection to the bay and its ecosystem shines through as he shares his passion for conservation and responsible harvesting practices, teaching you about the importance of preserving the delicate balance of the bay's ecosystem.

Once you've harvested a bountiful haul of clams, Steve will demonstrate the art of cleaning and preparing the clams for cooking. He shows you how to shuck the clams, clean them, and prepare them for a delicious meal. Steve's years of experience as a fisherman and his love for cooking are evident, making the process enjoyable and educational.

After the clams are cleaned, Steve will lead you in cooking the fresh catch right on the beach. As you gather around the fire, you'll savor the aroma of the clams sizzling in butter and garlic, eagerly anticipating the moment when you can indulge in the mouth-watering flavors of your freshly harvested and prepared clams.

Please note that for this class: A single-day or annual fishing license is required, and obtaining one is easy—you can purchase it online or from any license agent or CDFW license sales office. All needed tools & supplies for harvesting, cleaning & cooking are provided.

This event is for ages 6 and up.

Sold out? Join our waitlist.

Crab Harvesting & Cooking Adventure: Bodega/Tomales Bay

Ready for an unforgettable day by the water? Join expert fisherman Steve Conwell for a unique crabbing adventure in the stunning Bodega or Tomales Bay. You’ll learn how to set traps, identify local crab species, and sustainably harvest your catch. But that’s just the beginning.

After crabbing, you'll turn your fresh catch into a delicious meal. With Steve guiding you every step of the way, you’ll cook up your crabs right on the shore.  There's nothing quite like eating what you've caught, surrounded by the beauty of the bay.

Whether you’re a seasoned crabber or a total beginner, this is a one-of-a-kind experience that brings together learning, cooking, and the thrill of being outdoors. It’s more than just a class, it’s a day of adventure, great food, and memories you’ll be talking about for years.

Please note that for this class: For classes in Bodega Bay, a fishing license is required (but not for Tomales Bay). Getting a license is easy—just purchase it online or from any authorized seller or CDFW office. However, if your class is scheduled on one of California’s Free Fishing Days, no license is needed.

All needed tools & supplies for harvesting, cleaning & cooking are provided. Oh, and prepare for an adventure! Depending on the day, these classes can include wading knee-deep in the water and climbing over some slippery rocks.

This event is for ages 6 and up.

Sold out? Join our waitlist.

Mussel Foraging: Half Moon Bay

Join expert sea forager and archaeologist, Kevin Smith, in Half Moon Bay where you'll unravel the secrets of sustainable mussel foraging. Discover how to carefully select and harvest these delectable treasures while preserving mussel bed health and safeguarding the water quality of our coastal landscapes. Learn the art of seasonality and gain crucial insights into avoiding shellfish poisoning, ensuring your foraging experience is both safe and exhilarating. And, of course, you’ll learn the essential skills to clean and transport your mussels, so you can savor your culinary creations with the same passion that has fueled foragers throughout history.

As an archaeologist, Kevin will transport you through time, highlighting the rich history of mussels as a crucial food source for Indigenous California foragers. Delve into the ancient traditions and stories that have shaped our coastal communities. Beyond our shores, we'll venture into the past to uncover the earliest archaeological evidence of mussels being cherished by our early modern human ancestors in Africa, adding a global dimension to your foraging adventure.

Class is 2-3 hours and great for beginners as well as experienced foragers. Join us for an unforgettable experience that marries the wonders of nature with the mysteries of the past!

Please note that for this class: A single-day or annual fishing license is required, and obtaining one is easy—you can purchase it online or from any license agent or CDFW license sales office. You will also need a bucket, work gloves, and waders or rain boots.

This event is for ages 9 and up.

Sea Urchin Foraging: Sonoma Coast

Did you know that purple sea urchin have taken over the reefs of the North Coast over the last ten years leading to overgrazing and loss of 95% of our essential kelp forests? Join forager and archaeologist Kevin as he leads you on an immersive journey to explore the bountiful intertidal zone of the Sonoma Coast (near Fort Ross). Learn the art of sustainably foraging the delicious, but massively overpopulated, purple sea urchin, how to process your urchin to harvest its yummy uni, and gain insight into how foraging can play a vital role in restoring balance to these northern reefs. While purple sea urchin will be the main focus, there will certainly be other foraging opportunities on the reef including red sea urchin, turban snails, limpets, etc.

Please note that for this class: A single-day or annual fishing license is required, and obtaining one is easy—you can purchase it online or from any license agent or CDFW license sales office. You will also need waders (prepare to get wet), a bucket, and work gloves. Come prepared for a day of exploration and conservation!

This event is for ages 9 and up.