OLYMPIA — Shellfish managers with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife on Friday confirmed the next round of razor clam digs can proceed as planned from Saturday through Feb. 3.
“We have had some really good digging opportunity to start the new year and are excited to be able to finish out January on some really good minus tides,” said Zach Forster, a WDFW coastal shellfish biologist.
Diggers are reminded the daily limit has reverted to the standard 15 razor clams. Under state law, a daily limit consists of the first 15 clams dug regardless of size or condition, and each digger’s clams must be kept in a separate container.
Shellfish managers confirmed the following digs during evening low tides will proceed as scheduled, after marine toxin results from the Washington Department of Health showed razor clams were safe to eat:
Saturday, 4:30 P.M.; -0.7 feet; Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks
Jan. 30, Sunday, 5:21 P.M.; -1.2 feet; Long Beach, Copalis
Jan. 31, Monday, 6:08 P.M.; -1.5 feet; Long Beach
Feb. 1, Tuesday, 6:52 P.M.; -1.5 feet; Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis
Feb. 2, Wednesday, 7:34 P.M.; -1.2 feet; Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks
Feb. 3, Thursday, 8:13 P.M.; -0.7 feet; Copalis
Not all beaches are open for every dig, so diggers are encouraged to make sure their intended destination is open before heading out. Diggers should also continue to respect coastal communities and residents by following local and state health guidelines.
The most successful digging occurs between one and two hours before the listed time of low tide. The early part of the outgoing tides on Jan. 29-30 will occur just before sunset, a rare occurrence during the winter season. No digging is allowed before noon during digs when low tide occurs in the afternoon or evening.
