During winter northers, low tides expose shallow reefs where individuals may wade or walk along the flats picking up oysters with no special equipment except sturdy gloves for protection against sharp bills. Several laws that govern oyster harvest should be reviewed before heading out to the reef. A digest of saltwater fishing laws and maps of the approved and polluted oystering areas may be obtained from some coastal Parks and Wildlife offices. Actually, oysters are good to eat all year long. After spawning, however, they may become thin and watery.
Oysters are in best condition in winter and early spring.
As filter-feeders, oysters can concentrate bacteria and viruses within their bodies. These may be harmful to man when oysters are eaten raw or insufficiently cooked. Such diseases as typhoid fever and hepatitis have been traced to contaminated shellfish taken from polluted waters in other parts of the country. The Texas Department of Health determines the sanitary quality of the oystering areas and closes those that do not meet state and federal standards. It publishes maps of the Texas coast, designating approved oystering areas and closed or polluted areas.