The Spring Tides of September: Your Guide to Shore Fishing in Sainte-Marie-du-Mont

September in Normandy is the month for connoisseurs. It’s the time when nature offers one of its most impressive spectacles: the Spring Equinox Tides .

With tidal coefficients often exceeding 100, the sea recedes to a dizzying distance, revealing treasures usually inaccessible. Located in the front row, the Camping La Baie des Veys then becomes a paradise for shore fishermen.

Are you itching to put on your boots? Here’s everything you need to know to fill your basket (and your stomach) safely.

The Bay of Veys: An XXL playground

Why is our bay so renowned? Because the tidal range (the difference in height between low and high tide) is exceptional. When the sea recedes, it reveals kilometers of sand and mudflats. It’s Normandy’s breadbasket! By digging a little in the sand, you’ll mainly find:

• Cockles: The star of the bay, delicious with a little cream and shallots.
• Clams: Rarer, they are worth the effort!
• Wild Oysters: Often found clinging to exposed rocks.

Responsible fishing: we respect nature

Shore fishing is a free pleasure, but it also comes with responsibility. To ensure our children can also enjoy it in 20 years, there are a few simple rules to follow:

• Size matters: Don’t pick up the babies! Measuring sticks are often available at tourist offices. If it’s too small, put it back in the water.
• Quantity: Fish only what you are going to eat, no more (generally limited to 5kg per person).
• Good practice: If you lift a stone to see if there’s a crab underneath, always put it back. in its initial position. It is sheltered by a whole host of microfauna.

Safety: Don’t get caught!

The Bay of Veys is magnificent, but it can be treacherous. Here, they say that the sea comes in “at the speed of a galloping horse” (well, it’s an image, but it comes in very fast!).

• The crucial time: Fishing must begin 1 hour and 30 minutes before Low tide time. As soon as low tide time is reached, you must start heading back towards the shore.
• Weather: Beware of sea fog which can suddenly descend and cause you to lose your bearings.

Equipment: Wear good shoes.

No need to invest a fortune! Here’s everything you need for the perfect shore fisherman:

• A pair of boots (or old sneakers that can withstand anything).
• A bucket.
• A small claw or a hand rake (please note, some tools are prohibited, ask at reception).
• A raincoat (the wind can be cool out at sea).

Forgot your equipment? Don’t panic, you’ll find the essentials in the shops of Sainte-Mère-Église or Carentan, just a few minutes from the campsite.

After the effort, the reward

What a pleasure it is, after two hours in the fresh sea air, to return to the campsite! Enjoy a nice hot shower in our heated facilities to wash off the salt and sand. Then what? All that’s left to do is clean your catch and cook it. Enjoying your own catch on the terrace of your mobile home with a glass of local cider… That’s the true taste of a September holiday.