Razor Clamming Rules and Regulations

Before harvesting, check the beach to determine if a beach is open or if there are any health restrictions. You can check if there are any marine toxin level restrictions by calling the Marine Biotoxin Hotline maintained by the Washington Department of Health at 1-800-562-5632

License Requirements

A Shellfish/Seaweed License is required for harvesting razor clams and must be in the harvester's immediate possession and available for inspection during harvest and transport. Everyone claiming a limit must actively participate in the harvesting process, unless they possess a disability permit.

Bag Limit

The first fifteen razor clams regardless of size or condition must be retained. One daily limit of fresh shellfish may be in possession. Additional shellfish may be possessed in a frozen or processed form. Razor clams may not be returned to the beach. For razor clams, holes do not have to be refilled as is required for hardshell clam digging.

Allowable Harvesting Gear

Razor clams may be taken by hand, hand-operated shovel, or tube with a minimum outside diameter of 4" or (4" x 3" if elliptical). Each digger must use a separate container, but may share digging equipment.

Beach Use

It is illegal to drive any vehicle, or lead or ride a horse on the clam beds. You must stay on the upper "hard-sand area". Pressure from the weight of the vehicles or digging action of horses' hooves cause clam mortality.

For more information:

Razor Clams - How to Dig Razor Clams - WA Dept of Fish and Wildlife

Razor Clams - Rules and Regulations - WA Dept of Fish and Wildlife

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