According to a press release from Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW), razor clam digs have been approved beginning March 24 on 2 different beaches.
The upcoming digs have approved on the following beaches, dates and evening low tides:
- March 24, Friday, 5:01 p.m.; 0.5 feet; Mocrocks
- March 25, Saturday, 5:44 p.m.; 0.2 feet; Copalis
- March 26, Sunday, 6:24 p.m.; 0.0 feet; Mocrocks
WDFW would like razor clam diggers to be aware that Copalis and Mocrocks are only open on specific days during this approved dig. Please make sure your destination beach is open before heading out to dig.
According to the Press Release, a planned dig at Twin Harbors has been canceled after test results showed elevated levels of domoic acid.
The Press Release further stated that: “domoic acid has posed an ongoing problem for shellfish fisheries along Washington’s coast since 2015. The natural toxin produced by certain types of marine algae can be harmful or even fatal if consumed in sufficient quantities.”
Additional information on how testing for shellfish safety occurs, and why it is needed, can be found on the Department of Health Shellfish Program website.
Also, be sure to check out the Razor Clam Society beach map located here.
And, as per state law, diggers are required to keep the first 15 clams they dig. Each digger’s clams must be kept in a separate container.
All diggers age 15 or older must have an applicable 2016-17 fishing license to harvest razor clams on any beach. Licenses, ranging from a three-day razor clam license to an annual combination fishing license, are available from license vendors around the state and WDFW’s licensing customer service number at (360) 902-2464.
And, be aware that New Annual Shellfish Licenses Are Required After March 31.
Razor Clam Society 