The oyster seed spends its first months in small cages that rest just below the surface of the water, hung on a long line. The wave action of the Choptank River allows the seed to grow quickly and develop an ideal shape without growing together in clusters.
Once the oysters are ready to leave the smaller cages, they are transferred to larger cages that sit on the river bottom. The firm bottom of the Pirates Cove farm keeps the cages from sinking into the mud and allows water to flow completely through the cages. Every few weeks, the cages are brought into a boat and cleaned of any fouling organisms, and the oysters are sorted by size.
Oysters have no legs or fins, so they can’t move around to find better water. They feed only on water that comes to them. Thus, it’s important for oysters to grow in cages with other like-sized oysters. When they reach a specific size, they are sorted on the boat with a tumbler that continues to develop the best shape possible. This step helps us achieve a deep, symmetrical cup which provides a reservoir for the salty oyster liquor, a delicious nectar that enhances the beautiful buttery taste that are the hallmark of a Pirates Cove oyster.
The entire process from seed to market takes about 18 months. Pirates Cove oysters are available year round.