Can I Keep?Mussels Regulations in Oregon (2026)
Recreational mussels rules in Oregon saltwater, as published by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Last checked November 6, 2026.
Can I keep it today? Check your harbor & date
Recreational Mussels rules in Oregon
- Where
- All waters
- Bag limit
- 72
- Season
- Entire year and at all hours (exceptions are listed under “Harvest methods and restrictions” in the table below) and except when any state agency has issued a public health advisory. HEALTH ADVISORIES: Crabbing and clamming occasionally can be closed due to elevated levels of biotoxins or other health issues.
- May be taken by hand or hand-powered tools.
- Shellfish regulations article dated 2024-01-05.
- Always check ODA biotoxin closures before harvesting (https://www.oregon.gov/oda/food-safety/shellfish/pages/shellfish-closures.aspx).
- Regulation updates as of 2026-10-22: OPEN coastwide.
Commercial rules
Show 1 commercial rule
- Where
- All waters
- It is unlawful to take mussels by any means other than hand or a hand powered tool.
- Additional license requirement for each harvester, distributor or processor of clams, mussels, and scallops intended for human consumption is available through Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) at (503) 986-4720.
- Unlawful to take clams or mussels from a health closure area closed for biotoxins.
- Clams and mussels taken as bait must be visibly dyed with an ODFW -approved dye (Red #40).
- ODFW 2026 Oregon Commercial Fishing Regulations Synopsis: condensed form of the OAR 'for the convenience of the commercial harvester and is not intended to replace the laws or administrative rules'; rules are subject to change during the year.
Quick answers
How many mussels can I keep in Oregon?
72.
When is mussels season in Oregon?
Entire year and at all hours (exceptions are listed under “Harvest methods and restrictions” in the table below) and except when any state agency has issued a public health advisory. HEALTH ADVISORIES: Crabbing and clamming occasionally can be closed due to elevated levels of biotoxins or other health issues.. Whether it is open on a specific day can change by emergency rule — check today's status in the app.
Compare Mussels limits in other states →
More clams, oysters & scallops in Oregon
- Abalone
- Bay clams (butter, littleneck, gaper and cockle)
- Octopus
- Other clams (softshell, piddock and others not listed)
- Oysters
- Purple sea urchins
- Purple varnish clams
- Razor clams
- Scallops
- Sea stars
- Squid
All Oregon saltwater fishing regulations →
Source: Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Most anglers need a Oregon saltwater license or registry: get one here.