It is a "blistery" ground, the presence of these growths on a rocky or gravelly bottom usually meaning good fishing.
"Fishing Grounds of the Gulf of Maine"
Walter H. Rich
A "blistery" bottom that is a cod ground the year around, the best of the fishing occurring in the spring months.
"Fishing Grounds of the Gulf of Maine"
Walter H. Rich
A nice, cool spot like this, with nothing to do and some of your grog under the belt, skins a blistery deck any day.
"The Argus Pheasant"
John Charles Beecham