

Born and raised on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, we worked as watermen and for our families’ businesses. Life was good, but overfishing and the declining health of the Chesapeake Bay continued to deplete the natural oyster population.
Resilient and resolute, we turned to sustainable oyster aquaculture as a path forward for our environment – and our way of life.
Applying the principles and practices passed down by generations of watermen, we harnessed our experience to grow premium oysters in the waters surrounding Hoopers Island. Along the way, we created replicable models that inspire people to adopt our aquaculture methods.
Today, the Hoopers Island Oyster Co. is a multi-generational family business. Timeless traditions married with innovative technologies defines our spirit and our business model.
From seed to shuck, we invite you to discover oyster farming, the watermen’s way.

Ricky Fitzhugh
Managing Partner

Johnny Shockley
Founding Partner

From seed to shuck, the Hoopers Island Oyster Co. is the premier resource for equipment, product and seed serving consumers, growers and conservationists.
Larvae and seed produced at Maryland’s only commercial oyster hatchery in Crocheron

Locally manufactured equipment shipped from Cambridge to shellfish farms around the world

Sustainably raised oysters grown in the Chesapeake Bay and served throughout the Mid-Atlantic

Working with entrepreneurs, scientists & NGOs to build a new and sustainable future for the oyster industry


on a Half Shell
Raised in the Chesapeake – where Atlantic seawater mixes with fresh water tributaries – our signature Golds are prized by oyster lovers for their distinct merroir and golden hue. A fusion of salt and sweet found in every deep cup. Available in four varietals.
One taste and you’re hooked.
Our OystersIn the News
Tips for Selecting Oyster Grow Out Gear
April 3, 2018 | Natalie ClarkOyster growers today have many options to choose the best grow-out method and gear thanks to advancements in technology and increased opportunities to …
MDE Must Rethink Lease of 46 Years for Conowingo Dam
March 13, 2018 | Scott Budden & Johnny ShockleyOyster aquaculture company principals Scott Budden (Orchard Point) and Johnny Shockley (Hoopers Island) call on the Maryland Department of the Environ …
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Mighty Oyster
Oysters are one of nature's mightiest conservationists – and the foundation of clean waterways around the world.
Hope on a Half Shell
Imagine a future…
when the Chesapeake Bay leads the world in oyster production.
A time when dozens of shucking houses, and hundreds of oyster farms, employ tens of thousands of people, in a billion dollar industry.
We believe farm raised oysters are the engine of an economic, environmental and cultural revolution.
The future starts today.
We have worked with Hoopers Island Oyster Co. since 2011. One thing’s for sure – we wouldn’t be where we are today without their support, guidance, patience and leadership. These guys are the real deal! Prime quality, beautiful healthy oyster seed, too.
True Chesapeake Oyster Co.