Collecting Moon Snails

August 27, 2020

Question: Can I catch moon snails in Bodega Bay? (Bryan)

Answer: Moon snails cannot be taken north of the Golden Gate Bridge, per CCR Title 14, section 29.71. Since Bodega Bay is north of the Golden Gate Bridge, moon snails cannot be collected there. If you can travel just down the peninsula, San Mateo County is a popular area for collecting moon snails.

Moon snails are a classification of mollusk and live in mud flats and low intertidal zones on the Pacific Coast from British Columbia to San Diego. They can be identified by their large foot-to-shell size and globe-like, brownish-white shell.

South of the Golden Gate, possession limits on moon snails can be found in the California Recreational Ocean Fishing Regulations under Invertebrate Fishing Regulations. Moon snails can be collected year-round with a daily possession limit of five.

Remember, to legally take any mollusk in California, including moon snails, you’ll need a valid fishing license in your possession.

Does anybody eat moon snails? Online, I don’t see much other than a spicy Korean (redundant, I know) dish.

I can’t imagine they would be yummy...

They are very cool creatures!

Does anybody eat moon snails? Online, I don’t see much other than a spicy Korean (redundant, I know) dish.

I tried it once.  Taste ok but a little tough 

Does anybody eat moon snails? Online, I don’t see much other than a spicy Korean (redundant, I know) dish.

I tried it once.  Taste ok but a little tough 

Maybe tenderize it, like an abalone?