We followed the scallop fishermen in the Bay of Saint-Brieuc

Photographer Pascale Béroujon embarked for France.fr on board a fishing boat off the Bay of Saint-Brieuc in Brittany. A few hours spent with the fishermen at daylight, to measure the harshness of a profession that glorifies the most refined of seafoods, the scallop.

Towards the deposit

The air is bright and the water is dark at this early hour. We sail towards the most productive natural deposit of St James shells in France, which covers more than 150,000 hectares.

Towards the deposit

The air is bright and the water is dark at this early hour. We sail towards the most productive natural deposit of St James shells in France, which covers more than 150,000 hectares.

Iron mesh

Let the serious business begin! Dredge fishing is very physical and requires fishermen to protect themselves. Harrow and iron mesh sway on deck to the rhythm of the swell... Helmet, gloves and solid boots are required.

Precious Shell

Under the serrated shell, the flesh is as delicate and fragile as a young peach. Extracted at a depth of 6 to 8 meters, it is full of omega 3, tasty and healthy!

Back to the port

Back in port, the scallop bunkers will be the focus of attention by chefs and foodies alike who come to honour the queen of the sands of the bay.

Nature

Seasoning is superfluous to fully enjoy the delicacy of the fruit just out of the water. Ultra fresh!

Nature

Seasoning is superfluous to fully enjoy the delicacy of the fruit just out of the water. Ultra fresh!