According to a Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW) press release found here, the first razor clam digs of the 2016-2017 fall season are tentatively planned for mid-October on four ocean beaches with additional digs tentatively scheduled through December.
As is always the case, final approval of all scheduled openings will depend on results of marine toxin tests conducted by Washington State Department of Health that show the clams are safe to eat.
WDFW shellfish managers also seek comments on the spring digs. Comments can be sent via email to razorclams@dfw.wa.gov. Also available is a summary of last season and an overview of the recently completed 2016-17 razor clam stock assessment.
WDFW estimates the total razor clam population on Washington’s ocean beaches has increased slightly over last year.
WDFW assessments indicate that Long Beach has the largest population of razor clams the department has measured in the last 25 years. And the Twin Harbors population is strong. It is also reported that Mocrocks and Copalis show population declines, suggesting fewer digging days on those beaches this year.
Video of razor clam stock assessments can be found here.
The first proposed razor clam dig, along with evening low tides and beaches, is listed below:
- Oct. 14, Friday, 5:55 p.m.; 0.2 feet; Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, Mocrocks
- Oct. 15, Saturday, 6:42 p.m.; -0.6 feet; Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, Mocrocks
- Oct. 16, Sunday, 7:28 p.m.; -1.1 feet; Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, Mocrocks
- Oct. 17, Monday, 8:16 p.m.; -1.4 feet; Long Beach, Twin Harbors
- Oct. 18, Tuesday, 9:04 p.m.; -1.4 feet; Long Beach, Twin Harbors
- Oct. 19, Wednesday, 9:55 p.m.; -1.1 feet; Long Beach, Twin Harbors
- Oct. 20, Thursday, 10:50 p.m.; -0.7 feet; Long Beach
- Oct. 21, Friday, 11:50 p.m.; -0.1 feet; Long Beach
Proposed razor clam digs through December 31, 2016 can be found here.
Razor Clam Society 