WDFW Announces Seven Days of Clam Digging Starting Saturday

Posted

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has announced opportunities for clam digging at Long Beach, Twin Harbors and Copalis beaches from Oct. 8 to 14.

"Most of the 2,700 harvesters who went out during last week's season opener found easy digging, and we're expecting more of the same," said Dan Ayres, WDFW coastal shellfish manager. "As usual, we'll continue to test and monitor the situation closely prior to all planned openings."

The new dates come after previously announced clam digging times were canceled due to high levels of domoic acid. A recent test of marine toxin levels at Mocrocks beaches showed levels below the health guidelines. However, two test samples below the health guidelines taken 10 days apart required before a beach can reopen for razor clam digging. 

Not all beaches are open during a dig and clam diggers are encouraged to check whether their intended destination is open before leaving. 

Digging is prohibited on razor clam reserves. The reserves are marked out by 10-foot poles with signs.

The daily limit for razor clams is 15 clams per person regardless of size or condition. Each digger’s clams must be kept in a separate container. 

All diggers 15 and older must get a fishing license to harvest razor clams on any beach. Licenses may be purchased on WDFW's licensing website or from one of the hundreds of license vendors in the state. Options range from a three day razor clam license to an annual combination fishing license. Prospective diggers are encouraged to purchase their license before visiting the digging locations. 

The most successful times to dig occur one to two hours before the listed low tide time. Clam digging will be open at the following dates and associated low tide times:

  • Oct. 8, Saturday, 6:21 p.m.; 0.5 feet; Long Beach, Twin Harbors
  • Oct. 9, Sunday, 7:05 p.m.; -0.1 feet; Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis
  • Oct. 10, Monday, 7:46 p.m.; -0.5 feet; Long Beach, Twin Harbors
  • Oct. 11, Tuesday, 8:26 p.m.; -0.6 feet; Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis
  • Oct. 12, Wednesday, 9:06 p.m.; -0.4 feet; Long Beach, Twin Harbors
  • Oct. 13, Thursday, 9:46 p.m.; -0.2 feet; Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis
  • Oct. 14, Friday, 10:29 p.m.; 0.3 feet; Long Beach, Twin Harbors