Scallop facts
There are only 2 types of scallop in the waters around the Channel Islands:
- King scallop
- Queen scallop
Scallops are an important fishery in Jersey. Annual landings can reach up to 400 tonnes.
About 90% of scallops are caught using dredges. The rest are collected by divers, either commercially or recreationally.
Scallops are popular to eat. They are also of interest to the aquaculture industry, as they are suitable for fish farming.
King scallops can grow to more than 20cm in diameter and can live for up to 25 years.
Scallop fishing
There are 2 main methods used to fish for scallops.
Dredging
Dredging is the most effective method for catching scallops. A typical dredge used in Jersey:
- is about 80 cm wide
- weighs around 100kg
- has 9 teeth that dig into the seabed
- has a chain mail belly
Dredges are usually towed in groups of 4 to 6 behind a beam.
Modern dredges have spring‑loaded teeth. If the dredge hits a rock, the teeth fold back and then return to position once the obstacle has passed.
Scuba diving
Scuba diving is the other main method of scallop fishing in Jersey.
Divers usually lift only scallops that are large enough to sell. This helps protect juvenile scallops and other marine life.
Unlike dredging, there is little visible impact on the seabed. Areas recover quickly, as young scallops are not damaged. Scallops collected by divers are often in better condition for sale.
Conserving scallop stocks
Scallop stocks are protected through the following measures:
gov.je