Pacific Oysters (Crassostrea Gigas) – The World’s Favorite Oyster
The Pacific Oyster: A Global Favorite
Pacific Oysters (Crassostrea Gigas) are the most widely farmed oysters in the world. Originally from Japan, they have adapted exceptionally well to the pristine waters of Willapa Bay, where they thrive in its nutrient-rich, clean environment. Their briny, mildly sweet flavor and plump, tender texture make them a top choice for seafood lovers worldwide.
Why Pacific Oysters Thrive in Willapa Bay
Willapa Bay provides the ideal conditions for Pacific Oysters. With minimal industry, strong tidal flows, and abundant algae, our oysters grow quickly and naturally, developing their signature taste and texture. The bay’s clean, cold waters ensure that our Pacific Oysters are some of the finest available.
How We Grow Pacific Oysters
At Willapa Wild, we use sustainable, time-tested methods to cultivate Pacific Oysters, ensuring their quality while preserving the bay’s delicate ecosystem.
Hatchery Grown Pacific Oysters
Many of our Pacific Oysters start as seed oysters purchased from commercial hatcheries. When they arrive, they are between 1mm and 12mm in size. We place them in Bottle Upwellers, specialized systems that circulate bay water to provide the nutrients they need for healthy growth. After 3 to 4 months, when they reach 9 to 12mm, we transfer them into mesh grow-out bags, where they continue to mature until they reach market size.
Wild Set Pacific Oysters
Some of our Pacific Oysters are grown through natural wild set reproduction. Oyster larvae, or spat, swim freely in the bay for several weeks before settling on hard surfaces. To encourage this, we place oyster shells and other materials on our beds, providing an optimal habitat for spat to attach and grow. Once settled, we carefully relocate and monitor them, ensuring their healthy development.
Hand-Harvested for Superior Quality
Unlike industrial harvesting methods, at Willapa Wild, we hand-harvest our Pacific Oysters at low tide. This approach ensures that:
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Oysters remain free of sand and debris.
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Only the best oysters are selected for market.
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Our beds are preserved for continued sustainable production.
Perfect for Any Dish
Pacific Oysters are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:
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Raw on the half shell – briny, fresh, and pure.
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Grilled or roasted – bringing out their natural sweetness.
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Fried, steamed, or baked – ideal for various seafood dishes.
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Paired with sauces and mignonettes – enhancing their bold flavor profile.
Sustainably Grown, Responsibly Harvested
At Willapa Wild, we are committed to sustainable aquaculture. By restoring natural habitats, maintaining healthy oyster populations, and using responsible harvesting techniques, we ensure that Pacific Oysters will continue to thrive in Willapa Bay for generations to come.
Experience the taste of the finest Pacific Oysters, grown naturally in the cleanest estuary in the continental United States.