Three fishing boats, two being sprit-rigged and flying the Dutch flag, are shown on a mud bank. Merchant and other shipping is visible in the distance to the right on a calm sea. The beached vessel on the right has a sail raised and an anchor resting on the mud flats. Several fishermen standing on the mud are occupied with the boat on the right, two on the far right moving a wooden barrel probably laden with mussels. The larger boat to the left of centre contains three men, with another standing alongside busily engaged with it. An anchor rests at his feet. On the far left another small fishing craft has an anchor visible and nearby a man collects mussels. Behind the boats is a coastline with dunes on the left and the contours of a town visible in the centre.

Julius Porcellis, a marine painter, was the son of Jan Porcellis, who was considered the greatest marine painter of his day. The work is signed 'IP' on the sail of the left boat.