Nestled in the cold, nutrient-rich waters of Whidbey Island, Penn Cove Mussels are renowned for their fresh, hearty flavor. But their value extends beyond taste—they play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy marine ecosystem.
Mussels are natural filter feeders, purifying the water as they grow by consuming excess nutrients and algae. This process helps maintain water clarity and balance, benefiting the entire aquatic environment. By cultivating mussels without artificial intervention, Penn Cove farmers work in harmony with nature, preserving the pristine waters they rely on.
“We grow mussels using just the bay water and cove,” says Jesse Broderson, a seasoned fisherman with Penn Cove. “Natural mussels set on the rocks and beach in the cove, start to spawn, and we put our coils and lines in the water to catch the baby mussels, allowing them to grow to a quarter inch long where they’ll have a firm grip on the line. Then, we open up that line to their full 40 feet length so they can grow the mussel from there.”
Rather than seeding or manipulating growth, Penn Cove Mussels are farmed with a steward’s touch. The team ensures a thriving ecosystem while pioneering sustainable practices—like their patented disc mechanism, which prevents mussels from falling off lines, an innovation now used across the industry.
Harvesting is a careful process, too. “We use a raft with a stinger and debysser to get the mussels cleaned and obtained. Once they are clean, they go through our grading stations, where our team ensures every mussel going out is up to standards in weight and quality,” Jesse explains.
The result? Mussels that taste as fresh as the sea breeze over Whidbey Island—while keeping the waters clean for generations to come.
If you’re craving Penn Cove Mussels, there’s no shortage of spots to enjoy them. Toby’s Tavern in Coupeville serves them buttery and garlicky alongside their house beer, while Front Street Grill offers inventive preparations like Coconut Curry. For a laid-back afternoon, try Leo & Leto’s Winery and Bistro, where you can pair mussels with local wine. And for a romantic dinner, Prima Bistro in Langley serves French-inspired mussel dishes in an intimate setting.
Next time you savor Penn Cove Mussels, know that you’re enjoying not just a delicious dish, but a meal that supports the health of Whidbey Island’s waters.
