Answer
No—return live mollusks and mobile sand dollars to the waterline. Collecting living shellfish can violate fisheries rules and harms coastal ecology. Teach kids "empty only" before you hand them mesh bags.
Sources: Maryland DNR · Town of Ocean City
Editorial visitor guidance for Ocean City, Maryland. Confirm current Town of Ocean City, Maryland DNR, NPS Assateague, and NWS rules when regulations or safety apply.
