Quick Facts
- Species: Crassostrea gigas (Pacific Oyster)
- Cultivation: Farmed using floating bags and trays
- Size: Typically 2-4 inches
- Salinity: 28-30 ppt
- Seasonality: Available year-round
- Flavor Profile: Sweet and briny with notes of cucumber and a fresh, clean finish
What Are Eel Lake Oysters?
Eel Lake Oysters are a unique variety of oysters cultivated in the brackish waters of Eel Lake, Nova Scotia, Canada. The sheltered environment of Eel Lake, which boasts high nutrients, makes it an ideal location. The brackish waters of Eel Lake offer a sheltered environment that is ideal for oyster cultivation. The mix of ocean and freshwater rivers contributes to their unique flavor profile .
The history of Eel Lake Oysters began with the M’ikmaq people. They harvested oysters from Eel Lake as a summer fishing ground over 400 years ago. Eel Lake has a long and noble history of growing oysters that have been treasured for centuries. Today, Nolton and Kim farm these oysters in Eel Lake and have done so for the past 20 years.
Today, they are cultivated by a family-run business that has been producing high-quality oysters for years. The slightly lower salinity of Eel Lake gives these oysters their uniqueness. They have plump meat and a distinct grassy finish. These are a must-try for oyster enthusiasts looking for a distinct and flavorful experience.
How Did Eel Lake Oysters Get Their Name?
Eel Lake Oysters derive their name from the unique coastal lagoon in Nova Scotia, Canada, where they are farmed. Eel Lake has a long history of supporting aquaculture due to its sheltered waters and natural tidal flows.
The lake’s name reflects the abundance of eels that once thrived in its waters. As aquaculture developed, oyster farming became the region’s hallmark, and the lake’s name naturally extended to these premium oysters.
About D’Eon Oyster Company
D’Eon Oyster Company has evolved into a significant player in Nova Scotia’s aquaculture industry since its founding in 1996. The company manages 50 acres of lease space. It maintains approximately 3 million oysters in their waters at any given time 12.
Distribution and Recognition
The company exports 90% of its product to Ontario, Quebec, and New England markets. The remaining 10% supplies Halifax restaurants 1. Their excellence in oyster cultivation earned them the Taste of Nova Scotia Prestige Award for Consumer Choice Product in 2012. They also received the Yarmouth and Area Chamber of Commerce Export Achievement Award in 2015 1.
Sustainable Innovation
Solar-Powered Operations: In 2019, the company revolutionized its operations by implementing a solar-powered oyster sorter. This sorter is capable of processing 20,000 oysters daily. It is four times faster than manual sorting 1. This innovation received $99,904 in funding through the Atlantic Fisheries Fund 1.
Environmental Initiatives: The company demonstrates environmental leadership by:
- Using solar power for processing
- Replacing plastic zip ties with bungee cords
- Utilizing existing outboard motors for hydraulic systems
- Operating a completely off-grid processing barge 12
Growth and Future Plans
The company recently expanded its operations from Eel Lake to Salt Bay. They now grow 75% of their product 1. With Nova Scotia’s new pre-approved aquaculture sites initiative, D’Eon plans to triple their production capacity in Argyle 4.
Follow Them
Experience the exceptional taste of Eel Lake oysters by connecting with D’Eon Oyster Company today. Follow their journey from tide to table through their social media channels. They share behind-the-scenes glimpses of sustainable oyster farming. You can also find seasonal harvesting updates.
Eel Lake Oysters Information
Oyster: Eel Lake
Species: Crassostrea virginica (eastern oyster)
Production: Farmed
Season: Year Round
Size: 3″
Culture Method: OysterGro Cages (floating)
Salinity: 25 ppt
Appearance: deep-cupped shells with a rough texture and exhibit color variations, ranging from dark gray to brownish hues. Their irregular shell shapes and size variations add to their visual appeal, making them visually intriguing and distinctive.
Flavor Profile: plump meats, a crunchy texture, and a slightly lower salinity than ocean oysters. They have a distinct grassy finish and are intense in flavor with a creamy texture and crisp finish.
If you like eel lake oysters, then check out these similar varieties!
Location
Eel Lake oysters thrive in the brackish waters of Eel Lake, Nova Scotia. The D’Eon Oyster Company cultivates them in a sheltered environment. This unique location represents one of mainland Nova Scotia’s few brackish areas where oysters can flourish naturally 2.
The lake’s distinctive ecosystem combines ocean and freshwater river inputs. It creates optimal growing conditions with a salinity level of 25 ppt 3. The water undergoes constant renewal through 10-foot tides. These tides refresh the lake twice daily and ensure a consistent supply of nutrients 1. This tidal action occurs over silt flats and rocky ledges, contributing to the water’s nutrient-rich composition 1.
The environment’s natural characteristics perfectly support the OysterGro cage cultivation method. These floating cages position the oysters at the surface, where they benefit from nutrient-rich waters and natural tumbling action 1.
Before harvest, the oysters undergo a 21-day conditioning period 8-10 feet below the surface. During this time, cooler temperatures and slightly higher salinity enhance their final flavor profile 2. This location has been historically significant for over 400 years. The M’ikmaq people recognized its value as a summer fishing ground 3.
Suggested Pairings
- Côtes de Provence Rosé – enhances the grassy finish of Eel Lake oysters with its light, crisp profile. The wine’s delicate minerality complements the oyster’s subtle brackish notes.
- Hendricks Gin – works exceptionally well in martinis or gin and tonics with these oysters. The gin’s subtle cucumber notes create harmony with the oyster’s earthy undertones.
- Highland Park 15 – single malt scotch offers bright, salty, and citrus-forward notes that complement the oyster’s unique flavor profile. The scotch’s complexity enhances rather than overwhelms the delicate mushroom notes of Eel Lake oysters.
- Guinness Stout – creates a striking contrast through its smooth, creamy texture against the oyster’s brininess. The stout’s roasted notes balance perfectly with the oyster’s mineral qualities.
- Blanc de Blanc Champagne – provides a classic pairing that elevates the oyster’s natural flavors. The champagne’s yeasty, bready characteristics and effervescence create a perfect textural contrast while highlighting the oyster’s subtle sweetness.
Where Can I Buy Eel Lake Oysters?
- D’Eon Oyster Company – sells Eel Lake oysters directly to customers through their online store. They offer free shipping throughout the Atlantic Provinces 1. For local pickup, customers need to call ahead to arrange contactless collection from their facility
- Caudle’s Catch Seafood – Offers flexible purchasing options including single pieces, dozens, or 100-count bags. They sell premium quality Eel Lake oysters at $2.29 per piece.
- True North Seafood – Provides Eel Lake oysters in convenient 12-count packages. Customers have left positive reviews. They note consistent freshness and reliable delivery service.
- Mega Yacht Provisions – Offers fresh Eel Lake oysters with customizable ordering options, though pricing requires account registration.
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References
- “D’Eon Oyster Company – About Us.” D’Eon Oyster Company, 2023.
- “Nova Scotia Aquaculture Directory.” Nova Scotia Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, 2024.
- “Taste of Nova Scotia Award Winners.” Taste of Nova Scotia, 2012.
- “Atlantic Fisheries Fund Project Details.” Fisheries and Oceans Canada, 2019.
- “Oyster Growing Operations in Nova Scotia.” Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, 2023.
- “Sustainable Aquaculture Practices in Nova Scotia.” Nova Scotia Fisheries and Aquaculture, 2024.
- “Indigenous Fishing Grounds of Nova Scotia.” Mi’kmaq Rights Initiative, 2023.
- “Shellfish Water Classification in Nova Scotia.” Environment and Climate Change Canada, 2024.
- “Nova Scotia Seafood Export Data.” Nova Scotia Business Inc., 2024.
- “Aquaculture Site Mapping Project.” Nova Scotia Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, 2024.
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