Spring Razor Clam Digging on the Washington Coast: A Must-Try Outdoor Adventure

Razor Clamming is a Great Spring Adventure in the Pacific Northwest!

Spring in the Pacific Northwest means morning razor clam digs along the Washington coast! After a winter of late afternoon or evening digs—often in the dark and rain—spring brings morning tides and milder weather, making it the perfect time to hit the beach for this fun, family-friendly activity.

This past Sunday, I joined my friend Mike for a dig at Long Beach. The low tide was at 6:40 AM, a whopping -1.5 tide! These big tides expose more of the beach, revealing prime clam-digging grounds that are rarely accessible. We met at 4:30 AM in Ridgefield, WA, and arrived at Long Beach by 6:15 AM. After driving a couple of miles up the sandy beach to scout a spot (though, honestly, almost anywhere works), we parked, donned our waders, grabbed our clam shovels, and headed to the surf.

Gear You’ll Need for Razor Clam Digging

To make the most of your clam-digging adventure, here’s the essential equipment:

• Chest Waders or Knee-High Rain Boots: You’ll be digging near the surf, and a sneaker wave can soak you without proper protection. Chest waders are ideal, but knee-high boots work in a pinch.

• Clam Container: Every digger must keep their limit of clams with them at all times. A clam net that attaches to your belt is convenient and affordable.

• Clam Shovel or Clam Gun: I prefer a shovel for the hands-on, sporting challenge of digging in the sand—it’s messier but rewarding! Clam guns, however, are more popular because they’re efficient and keep you cleaner. My wife and daughters opt for guns, while my sons and I stick with shovels.

• 5 Gallon bucket to transport your clams home. I love the Yeti Bucket!

Here are some recommended products that are all available at SPORTCO in Fife WA.

• Clam Bag: SMI 6 in diameter hole for easy access to your catch and 20 inches in length. Includes a soft hoop at the top and a loop to attach to a belt if desired. This clam net can also be used as a bait bag for various traps as well.

  

  
  

• Clam Shovel: SMI Clam Shovel - The SMI/Beau Mac shovels have been specifically engineered for clamming on sandy beaches. They feature forged steel blades and sockets with premium grade hardwood handles for extra strength and durability. Specially angled blades give clam diggers extra leverage for better lift of heavy wet sand. The shovels come in different blade widths and handle lengths.

• Clam Gun: Beaumac Aluminum clam guns T- Handle Clam Gun is engineered for taking Razor Clams from sandy ocean beaches. It is time tested and sucess proven!

• 5 Gallon Bucket: The unsung hero of hard work deserved a little attention. The Yeti ultra-durable LoadOut® bucket is designed for lugging, loading, hauling, and baling. Whether you’re at the ranch, on the boat or out Razor Clamming, this 5-gallon bucket is nearly indestructible and ready to work. But don't depend on it for keeping ice cold, it has other jobs to do.

  

  
  

How to Dig for Razor Clams

Mike and I hit the beach and quickly spotted our first clams. The sand was compacted making “shows” (the telltale signs of clams) harder to spot, but once we got the hang of it, we bagged our limit of 15 clams each in less than 30 minutes!

(Always check with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife for current limits and dig schedules.)

Clam “shows” are small holes, divots, or volcano-like mounds in the sand indicating a clam below. Their appearance varies depending on tide and sand conditions, but once you learn to recognize them, they’re easier to find.

Limits of clams in less than 30 minutes today!

You can check the Washington Razor Clam schedule here: https://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/shellfishing-regulations/razor-clams

Using a Shovel: Locate a show, then dig a few careful scoops with your shovel to avoid cracking the clam’s shell. Switch to your hands to feel for the clam. Some clams come up easily, while others dig frantically to escape. Add an occasional wave washing over you, and you’ll see why I find shoveling so sporting!

Using a Clam Gun: Place the gun over the show, push it deep into the sand, and cover the air hole on the handle. Pull up the sand column, release the air hole, and the sand (hopefully with a clam) spills out. If the clam is deep, you may need a second, deeper pull. Once you’ve got your clam, pop it into your bag and move on to the next show.

Why You Should Try Razor Clam Digging

Razor clam digging is a fantastic way for families, friends, or solo adventurers to enjoy a day at the beach. It’s active, exciting, and rewarding—especially when you cook up your fresh clams for a delicious meal. Whether you’re a seasoned digger or a first-timer, spring’s morning tides and better weather make it an ideal time to give it a try.

Check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website for upcoming dig dates and regulations, grab your gear, and head to the coast for a memorable outdoor experience!

Thanks for reading, and look below for some links to clam cleaning, recipes and more razor clam information.

Bill