Razor clams are a highly popular shellfish that lives in the waters ranging from Alaska down to California. Those that live in the Washington area generally measure up to six inches in length and have a life expectancy of five years. They are quite meaty, making them a favorite in seafood dishes.
Clam digging in Ocean Shores is only permitted during the digging season, which runs from October to May. Within these months are only a handful of days where recreational digging is actually permitted. This period of time is allotted by the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife. They take into account numerous factors, including the clam population, incidents of clam disease and toxins and weather. They also hold meetings to determine when people prefer to go digging and try to plan dates to coincide with these wishes. Dig dates are released a few weeks in advance. Participants are asked to check the WDFW website prior to heading out, in case plans have had to change.
Anyone over the age of 15 who wishes to go clam digging is required to have a clam digging license. These are good for three days. Other acceptable licenses are a seasonal combination fishing license or a shellfish/seaweed license. Clams may be harvested by hand, with a hand-operated shovel, or by using a tube. Only 15 clams may be harvested per person each day. They may not be returned to the beach.
Horses and vehicles are prohibited from being on the beaches, so diggers must walk along the shoreline. Look for "clam shows," which are dimples on the sand surface, a hole with distinct sides known as a keyhole or a hole with raised sides known as a doughnut. Carefully put the blade of the shovel about four to six inches away from the hole, on the ocean side. Rock the shovel back and forth to loosen the sand. Carefully scoop the sand out of the hole a few times until the clam is exposed and you can grab it with your hand.
Cover the clam show with the tube at an angle. Rock or twist as you push the tube 6 to 10 inches into the sand. Cover the air vent and pull up. Repeat a few times. Check for the clam and carefully remove it with your hands.
