June 2011 Cape Cod
I am new to Chatham having lived in Orleans and Provincetown most of my years on the Cape. Chatham is broader in land and has a meandering coastline full of small inlets, sand bars, brackish mudflats, cranberry bogs and deep crystal clear glacial ponds.
The part that impresses me the least is that Chatham has a reputation for being posh and exclusive. The houses here are grand and often look down on the roads that pass by them. A lot of them are for sale so if you're are in the mood, come and take a look.
Last winter I vowed that I would become a shellfisherman or more commonly, a clam digger. I got my license from the town for a nominal $20 and had the best of intentions. The winter was cold and grey and I didn't get out like I had promised myself. This year will be different.
There are several small bays that I pass each day going to and from. One is in the first pic posted. There I met some nice folks doing what I should have been doing, digging for clams.. They almost had their daily quota of a basket full for each license.
They were digging for soft shell clams. They are usually found just above water line on a low tide and down in the sand about 12" These clams are sweet somewhat juicy compared to little necks that are found waist deep raked up from the bottom.
James is their dog. He is a grateful Jack Russell rescued from a shelter. James is officiating and making sure that any shellfish that is too small get thrown back. It's his job...
I reasoned that alone, or with cherished company, all's I need is a box of spaghetti and a few clams and it will make the finest meal....
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