Mussels Any Advice???

I know there was a thread or 2 on this subject before, but, but, any advice out there on taking mussels?

A previous post mentioned always check the California Shellfish toxin hotline 800-553-4133.  Someone also commented the larger ones are tough go for the medium sized ones. 

Is there anything else to it other than just finding a good spot @ low tide???

Thanks In Advance,
PJ

Wear camo, they can be spooky.

Wear camo, they can be spooky.

gloves, scale, mesh bag - studded felt soled boots.

get em away from sandy beaches or they will be gritty.  I wouldn't eat any near creek mouths either.

... as well as anywhere down current of major seal haul outs. 

I always try not to "clearcut".  I pick from different spots where the beds have mussels super thick picking a handful or so of the best ones and moving on. 

My mom made a California mussel chowder the other day where she simply replaced the clams with de-bearded mussels.  Absolutely fantastic.  The mussels have a much richer flavor.

any tips on removing the beards?

any tips on removing the beards?

Its a bit of a laborious process, but after they are cooked and you have removed the body from the shell, get a good grip with on the flesh with the beard between two of your fingers.  Pull on the beard with the other hand and after a little resistance it should come right out attached to some flesh and another muscle like the abductor.  (try to keep the meat all in one piece as you pull on the beard) I have not done mussels yet this year as I am hobbled something bad, so I may be hazy, but this works pretty good and before you know it you have a pile of meat you can just pop in your mouth or chowder.

I enjoy throwing the larger ones on the BBQ some lemon and Tapatio..

Thanks for the great advice.  I was thinking of steering clear of creaks & whatnot.  & I definitely wouldn't be into clear-cutting either.

I was thinking of paddling out to a few offshore rocks I know of.  Just thinking that somewhere that has good current around it constantly, in deeper water, would probably be much cleaner than a creek mouth.  Not to mention the fact that offshore rocks should  be virtually untouched.

PJ

Forgot mention I have had better luck with a woodland pattern.  Here is were i shop...

SBD, very impressive!!!

A very popular Nor-Cal launch spot also has a decent mussel population. 

Forgot mention I have had better luck with a woodland pattern.  Here is were i shop...

silly question - why do you call it a woodland pattern?

Wear camo, they can be spooky.

Just continuing the sillyness.  In all seroiusness, I did forget to mention wear a PFD.  If you should happen to get slammed by the big one in street clothes and rubber boots, you and the CG will be thrilled that you planned for it.