A clam boat among the clam trees. Photo by Chris Viprino
Rock Harbor is one pretty place.
Sure people rave about the sunsets, which are phenomenal. And they wonder about the funny trees, often sprouting incongruous street signs, which mark the channel.
The clam trees, as they are called, are installed every year and are part of the charm of the small port shared by Orleans and Eastham. But the trees, which at least one old-timer used to put clams under, don’t explain the allure of the place.
We think it has to do with Rock Harbor’s small and enduring hometown feel. The fishing port is understated, but it’s been a constant for more than a hundred years. The industry there, joined by a healthy charter boat fleet, is picturesque in its own right, as seen in these photos, many from from Captain Chris Viprino. Some of the best pictures are taken by commercial fishermen.
Two members of the small, but plucky, Rock Harbor fleet. Photo by Doreen Leggett.
A quahog dredge in action. Chris Viprino photo.
Captain Chris Viprino has spent the last three years dragging for quahogs out of Rock Harbor, but he rigged his boat so he could catch tuna too. Courtesy photo.
Sometimes the best views are on the trip home. Chris Viprino photo.
Good trip to the bottom. Chris Viprino photo.
Nice looking sorting table. Chris Viprino photo.
Quahogging often means very long hours. Chris Viprino photo.
Bay scallops, hard to beat those from Cape Cod Bay. Chris Viprino photo.
One of the prettiest places. Chris Viprino photo.