©Bernard Galéron

Fishing on foot


With 5,032 km of coastline, Brittany is the perfect region for fishing on foot.


#1 Shellfish And shellfish

The shellfish found on Kerleven beach are mainly burrowing shellfish that live at shallow depths in the ground.

  • The cockle is the most common shellfish found on Kerleven beach. It is made up of 2 valves. Their shells are rounded and grooved, and vary in colour from beige to brown.
  • The clam has 2 rounded and ridged shells, beige or grey in colour.
  • The razor cl am is easily recognised by its 2 thin, elongated shells, which are more or less light brown in colour and are covered with a shiny varnish.

#2 Kerleven beach

Over 1 kilometre long, Kerleven beach is a popular spot for shore fishing.

Please note that the ARS advises against fishing on Kerleven beach.

#3 The tides

A fascinating natural spectacle, the tides give rhythm to the life of the coastline. Twice a day, the sea retreats and then returns, revealing beaches, rocks and endless stretches of sand. A unique phenomenon, to be admired for its changing landscapes and for the treasures it reveals hour by hour.

#4 Good practice Regulations

The tourist office provides visitors with practical and educational tools:

  • Rulers indicating minimum shellfish sizes.
  • Nature outings to discover the foreshore are organised throughout the year, as well as plankton discovery workshops. Dates can be found in the diary.
  • Fishing on foot must be done with respect for nature. To preserve the resource, it is essential to respect the maximum authorised quantities and to collect only the shellfish you are going to eat.

#5 Temporary bans

The most important thing to do before you go fishing on foot is to find out about any temporary bans.

Departmental and municipal bans are posted at the entrances to Kerleven beach and at the town hall.

Finistère Prefecture website

#6 Nature outings high tides

Every year, the Tourist Office organises outings to discover the foreshore, with the aim of informing the public about the different animals and plants living on the beach. This ecosystem is fragile, so it’s important to take the right steps to preserve it.

High tide day trips

Discovering the maritime world is always a great experience for young and old alike.

Foreshore exploration by night

As night falls, this unusual tour immerses participants in a special atmosphere.

Please note that night fishing is prohibited. The aim of this outing is not to bring back shellfish, but to learn about them.

#7 Les Viviers Shellfish and crustaceans

Guided tour of Les Viviers
Would you like to find out more about shellfish production and sales at Les Viviers? Sign up for one of the tours organised by the Tourist Office:

Bookings can be made at the Tourist Office reception desk or by calling 02 98 51 42 07.

#8 For those who want it easy...

The region’s professionals – shellfish farmers, fishmongers, caterers and restaurateurs – prepare shellfish, crustaceans and seafood platters like no-one else. You’d be wrong to miss out!

  • At Les Viviers de Penfoulic
  • Les Viviers de La Forêt
  • Les Poissons de Nicolas” fish shop
  • La Boucherie de l’Aod” delicatessen
  • The restaurants