If we had to pick a symbol representing our shores, we’d likely fly the flag of our shellfish. Unique, multi-faceted, and forever linked to the ocean, our clams, crabs, and oysters are icon-worthy. When razor clam digging days are announced, our beaches become magnets to thousands of dutiful diggers around the region. Searching for these subtle, slightly blade-shaped delicacies is considered one of the ultimate Pacific Northwest experiences. Add razor clam digging in Pacific County to your bucket list, and prepare to play hide-and-seek with these tasty treats.
What are Razor Clams?
The razor clam is a stealthy shellfish of the coastal underworld. Unlike its cousins, the hard-and-soft-shell clams, our coveted razor clams have an elongated shape with a soft body that extends beyond their fragile shells. Experts at digging, these clandestine sea creatures bury themselves like a secret in the wet sands close to the shore. Their amber-hued armor can grow up to six inches and harness a morsel so desired that people come for miles to try and capture them. With tender, sweet, and delightfully chewy meat, the Pacific razor clams are among the most coveted shellfish on the coast.
Where Can You Find Razor Clams?
You can find razor clams buried on sandy beaches from California to Alaska. Lucky for us, our 28 miles of shoreline are the ideal location to pull your limits. Because razor clams burrow on beaches exposed to low tide, Long Beach is a prime spot for razor clam digging in Pacific County. The massive stretch from north of Cape Disappointment to the mouth of Willapa Bay is one of the largest harvesting areas in Washington.
It’s important to note that razor clam digging happens throughout the year but can only occur during approved times. Always check the dates before heading to the beach.
How do you Spot Razor Clams on Pacific County Beaches?
On approved digging dates, grab your gear and head to the water’s edge during low tide. Experienced diggers know that razor clams tunnel on the edge of the surf. Our razor clams are shy, but they leave behind a few clues to their whereabouts if you know what you’re looking for. Start by thumping the wet sand as you walk along the beach. The clams will startle and create impressions on the shoreline. Keep your eyes peeled for these “clam shows.” When the clam has started digging into the sand, you’ll see telltale impressions on the surface, so look for dimples, doughnuts, or keyholes.
Dimples
Eagle-eyed diggers will recognize the coy, quarter-sized dimple of the razor clam. A slight, round depression in the sand suggests a happy clam below the surface.
Image Courtesy of: Robyn Unruh
Doughnuts
As the name suggests, a razor clam doughnut looks like a sandy snack. Round, raised edges surround a small hole or depression, resulting in a doughnut-like mound on the beach’s surface.
Keyholes
A keyhole appears as a more defined burrow. Unlike a dimple, the keyhole is a distinct hole that occasionally resembles an hourglass.
Whenever you see a clam show, position your digging tool slightly off center of the impression. Due to their shape and spout, razor clams are not always directly under the hole they leave on the surface. Because the clam’s shells are so fragile, you can crack them if your tool accidentally makes contact. Every clam you dig counts toward your allowance for sustainability purposes, even if you break the shell.
What Do You Need for Razor Clam Digging in Pacific County?
For a successful razor clam-digging in Pacific County, you’ll need a few key items:
Shellfish License
Federal and state laws require a license for anyone over 15 who is clam digging. There are maximum daily limits to the number of razor clams you can harvest, regardless of size. Current limits are 15 clams per person.
Razor Clam Digging Tools
Razor clams are fast burrowers, so the quicker you dig them up, the easier it is to catch them. To make the process smoother, have the proper digging tools. You’ll need a razor clam shovel or razor clam tube. A clam shovel has a narrow blade at an offset angle from the handle, giving you better leverage than your standard garden shovel. Clam tubes (also known as clam guns) are long tubes made of stainless steel or plastic. They use suction (and your leg strength!) to pull up the cylinder of sand that the clam is hiding in. Each option has a devoted following, but beginners lean toward the clam tubes. Either way, you’ll also need a mesh bag or bucket to hold your briny treasures.
Ideal Razor Clam Clothing and Accessories
Depending on the time of year you’re digging, you’ll want to dress accordingly. Razor clam digging is wet work, especially in the elements. Layered clothing that is appropriate for the season is encouraged, along with a raincoat. You’ll kneel on damp sand, so hip waders or waterproof shoes and pants will provide extra coverage. And a pair of rubber gloves to safeguard your hands will prevent wayward cuts.
During the fall and winter, digging typically occurs in the evening, so adding a headlamp or lantern will provide the lighting you’ll need to see the telltale clam shows. We highly recommend having a change of clothes and a thermos of warm coffee waiting for you in the car to toast your successful razor clam dig in Pacific County!
Staying Safe While Razor Clam Digging in Pacific County!
It’s essential to stay safe while clam-digging! Things to keep in mind while on the beach:
Never Turn Your Back on the Ocean
Because clam digging happens on the shoreline, it’s vital to exercise basic beach safety. Our shores are known for their temperamental surf. Sneaker waves are hazardous waves that can unexpectedly swell, sweeping unsuspecting beachgoers into the ocean. Keep your back toward the dunes and your eye on the horizon.
Watch Your Fingers!
Razor clams are aptly named, not simply because some resemble straight-edged shaving blades. Their shells are thin, brittle, and have a sharp edge, which can slice your fingers and feet. Some folks recommend wearing dishwashing gloves when digging to avoid cutting your fingers when handling them.
What Makes Pacific County Razor Clam Digging So Special
When you go razor clam digging in Pacific County, it is the experience of unearthing buried treasure. You become a proverbial pirate uncovering the jewels of the ocean. The astonishing beauty of our coastline trumps the primal aspect of catching what you eat. Standing on the shores of our ever-stretching beach, under the unyielding sky, and plucking the rare golden razor clam from its sandy slumber is a triumphant plunder you must experience at least once. With several potential razor clam digging dates on the horizon, there are multiple opportunities to embrace your inner mollusk buccaneer in the coming year. And be sure to join us for our annual Long Beach Razor Clam Festival, where we kick up the clam celebration during a full weekend of events, music, and clam fritters. See you at the beach!
Feature Image Courtesy of: Luke Whittaker, Chinook Observer
By: Danelle Dodds
Danelle is an international traveler, road tripper, writer, and artist. She firmly believes in testing the limits of word count, mileage, and AYCE sushi.