Washington’s Pre-Holiday Razor Clam Dig Approved for Dec. 10
OutdoorHub 12.05.11
Olympia, WA – Clam diggers who want to dig some fresh razor clams for the holidays will get their first chance Saturday, Dec. 10 at four ocean beaches.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) approved the evening dig at Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis and Mocrocks beaches after marine toxin tests showed that the clams on those beaches are safe to eat. The low evening tide Dec. 10 will be at 6:30 p.m. No digging will be allowed at any of those beaches before noon.
“The upcoming dig will give folks a chance to take home some fresh razor clams in time for entertaining during the holidays,” said Dan Ayres, WDFW coastal shellfish manager.
Ayres suggests that diggers check out the selection of razor clam recipes on the WDFW website (http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/shellfish/razorclams/recipes.html), noting that the smoked razor clam appetizer is his personal favorite. He also recommends that diggers pack a flashlight and put on warm, waterproof clothes before they hit the beach.
WDFW has also tentatively scheduled a two-day dig Dec. 22-23 at the same four beaches, pending the results of future toxin tests. Final approval for that dig will be announced once those tests show the clams are still safe to eat.
All diggers age 15 or older must have an applicable 2011-12 fishing license to harvest razor clams on any beach. Licensing options range from a three-day razor clam license to an annual combination fishing license, which can be purchased on WDFW’s website (https://fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov) and from license vendors around the state.
Under state law, diggers 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
