Charles County's agriculture and seafood industries have long been economic drivers, supporting local businesses, creating jobs, and preserving the working lands and waterways that define the county. From family farms to generations of watermen harvesting the Potomac, Patuxent, Wicomico, and Port Tobacco waterways, these industries continue to strengthen the local economy by providing fresh products, supporting small businesses, and preserving the county's rich culture and heritage.

The changing seasons keep Charles County's seafood industry active year-round, with local watermen harvesting a variety of fresh products that support local businesses and give residents access to locally harvested products.

During the warmer months, local watermen harvest blue crabs, finfish, and other wild-caught seafood, making summer a favorite season for seafood lovers. Whether you're picking crabs with family, enjoying fresh fish for dinner, or ordering local seafood at one of our seafood restaurants, every purchase helps support Charles County's commercial fishing industry and the families who depend on it.

Fall and winter mark oyster season, when both wild-caught and locally farmed oysters are available. Oyster farming, or aquaculture, has become an increasingly important part of Southern Maryland's seafood industry, creating new opportunities for watermen while providing a sustainable source of high-quality oysters.

Charles County Government has also been part of significant efforts to restore our local waterways through oyster reef restoration projects. In partnership with the Charles County Watermen's Association and the Wicomico River Oyster Cooperative, restoration work in the Wicomico River has helped rebuild oyster habitat, improve water quality, and support healthier aquatic ecosystems. These collaborative efforts for a healthy oyster population will help sustain local businesses and strengthen the seafood industry for years to come. 

When local seafood is in season, look for Charles County products at restaurants and seafood markets that proudly source from our local watermen whenever possible, including:

• Bubba's Crab Shack in Newburg
• Captain Billy's Crab House in Newburg
• Captain John's Crabhouse on Cobb Island
• Captain Mo's Seafood in White Plains
• Cobb Island Seafood Company on Cobb Island
• Grinder's Seafood in Indian Head
• Port Tobacco Restaurant and Marina
• Prime Street Grill in White Plains
• Ray's Pier Restaurant in Benedict
• Southern Maryland Crabs and Seafood in Waldorf
• Southern Maryland Seafood Company in La Plata
• The Cove at Cobb Island
• The Scuttlebutt Restaurant on Cobb Island

This season, discover the incredible seafood harvested from our own rivers and bays, support the hardworking men and women who bring it to our tables, and experience the unmatched flavor of fresh, local seafood. 

To keep up to date, consider subscribing to the Charles County Agriculture Monthly Newsletter as well as the Charles County Agriculture Facebook Page to stay connected with local food, events, trainings, and community initiatives.