Razor Clamming

Razor Clam Basics

Licenses:

YES - Check WDFW site for changes. Current fee $21.58 Shellfish or $17.44 Razor Clam only.  Shellfish license allows you to harvest razor clams.  One day licenses available.

Rules & Regulations:

Google Razor Clams and visit WDFW site for beaches open, limits, equipment & tips.  Generally, 15 per person limit, seasons October through May—open on days and beaches posted.  Beaches open will be listed on WDFW site along with low tides forecasted for dig. Lower tides are best for digging as more beach exposed. WDFW site video includes a description on how to effectively dig.  Must keep first 15 clams dug including damaged and size. 

Equipment:

License, Clam gun or shovel, waders or tall boots, bucket or net to keep clams in, review tide, weather, open dates before going, change of clothes + blanket for getting wet, headlamp or lantern for night digs, first aid kit. 

Tablefare:

Keep clams in a little salt water until ready to clean allowing them to spit out sand, Visit You Tube for cleaning and cooking ideas.  

Tips:

Arrive at beach 1-1.5 hours before low tide.  Look to see where and how others dig. I like to bring sticks to mark 2nd razor clam spotted while digging if digging in surf area. If you feel clam gun touch clam, you might wish to move sand entry point before crushing clam. Mesh sacks attached to belt is easy way to keep clams secure in surf digging.