Clam digs proposed for Long Beach in September

Clam digs could be coming to Long Beach in September.

The Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife says that a three-day razor clam dig is proposed for Pacific County beginning Sept. 27.

“We know people have been looking forward to digging razor clams at Long Beach, and we’re pleased to say we believe based on our surveys that the beach is going to enter the line-up more frequently this fall and winter,” said Dan Ayres, WDFW coastal shellfish manager.

In a release, the department says that toxin tests will confirm if the dig can proceed.

The upcoming dig is proposed for the following dates and morning low tides:

• Sept. 27, Friday, 5:52 a.m. -0.9, Long Beach only
• Sept. 28, Saturday, 6:36 a.m. -0.8, Long Beach only
• Sept. 29, Sunday, 7:19 am -0.6, Long Beach only

All diggers age 15 or older must have an applicable 2019-20 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 on WDFW’s website at https://fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov and from license vendors around the state.

“There will be some terrific razor clam digging in the months ahead,” said Ayres. He and his crew completed the final clam population survey of the summer on Friday, Aug. 30 in Ocean Park.  

WDFW is currently assessing additional digs for Twin Harbors, Copalis and Mocrocks in October, but has not yet finished those assessments, nor set dates.

Under state law, diggers at open beaches can take 15 razor clams per day and are required to keep the first 15 they dig. Each digger’s clams must be kept in a separate container.