Clams are edible infaunal bivalve mollusks, and the word “clam digging” refers to a traditional technique for obtaining them from the tidal mud or sand flats where they reside. It is done both commercially and recreationally (for fun or as a source of nourishment). Informally known as “clamming” in the United States and Canada, commercial digging is carried out by clammers.

Commercial clamming

Quahog clams and the bigger surf clams are generally harvested commercially by mechanical dredging offshore. Aquaculturalists frequently employ a much more compact (hand-pulled) variant of the offshore dredge to harvest planted clam beds. A flat-decked boat and a clamrake with something like a telescopic handle are used for another type of commercial clamming. These rakes’ heads are equipped with long tines that are joined to a cage that resembles a “basket” and is used to catch clams.

Amateurs clam

Using a spading shovel or a straight, long-handled spading fork, amateurs frequently dig clams.

Clamming gears

Common tools for digging razor clams include clam shovels and clam guns (on the right). A bucket will fine, but some folks like a mesh bag for their clams. Each clammer needs their own container to store their clams in, such as a bucket or bag.

Clam digging, Washington

Each year, thousands of people visit the beaches in Washington to participate in razor clam digging. You can get all the information you require about sea bass digging in Washington, including once you can go clam digging, what you need, and how to get started.

Schedule of clam digging

WDFW shellfish managers today revealed 26 potential razor clam dig dates for January and February and reaffirmed that the most recent series December digs can go ahead as scheduled starting next week.

What number of clams could you dig?

Clam hunters are permitted by state regulations that keep 15 clams. Clammers are not permitted to put back clams which are too little or that you cut through when digging because they must be among the first 15 dug. To make it simpler for police forces to verify that everyone is adhering to the 15 clam limit, each person’s clams should be placed in a separate container.

Razor clam beaches

Between a +3 foot level and a -2 foot tide level, intertidal coastal beaches are where you’ll mostly find razor clams.

Long beach

Long Beach, from the mouth of Willapa Bay in the north to the Columbia River

Twin harbors

Twin Harbors from Willapa Bay in the north to the southern jetty at Grays Harbor’s mouth

Kalaloch

As from South Beach campground, head north on Kalaloch to the ONP Beach Trail 3

Copalis beach

As from north jetty at Grays Harbor’s mouth to the Copalis River, there lies Copalis Beach.

Mocrocks

Mocrocks extending as from Copalis River to the southern edge of Quinault Indian Reservation

Seafood festival

We welcome you to a seafood fest! Pacific crab, razor clams, and oysters Live music. Clam chowder and clam fritters. Attending the festival is free.