Tips & Tricks

Finding razor clams starts with learning what a clam show looks like. Razor clams can leave several different marks on the surface of the sand, including small dimples, holes, depressions, and doughnut-shaped shows.

Some shows are obvious while others may be little more than a subtle change in the sand. Not every visible hole or depression is a razor clam show.

Slow down and scan the beach carefully as the tide recedes. Once you begin recognizing the patterns, clam shows become much easier to spot.

If clam shows are difficult to see, try firmly stomping your foot on the sand near a promising area.

The vibration can sometimes cause a razor clam to move below the surface, making its show more visible.

After stomping, pause for a moment and carefully look around your feet for a new dimple, hole, or depression.

This technique can be especially helpful when the sand surface is smooth and natural clam shows are difficult to see.

Razor clams can dig surprisingly quickly.

Once you locate a strong clam show, position your clam gun or shovel and begin digging without waiting too long.

A clam that senses vibration or disturbance may begin moving deeper into the sand, which can turn an easy dig into a much deeper one.

Being deliberate and prepared is usually more effective than rushing around the beach looking for dozens of shows before digging any of them.

A clam gun is one of the easiest tools for many razor clam diggers to learn.

Place the tube over the clam show while allowing for the possibility that the clam may not be directly beneath the center of the mark. Work the tube into the sand using steady pressure and the technique appropriate for your clam gun.

Pull the sand plug out and inspect it carefully for the clam.

If the clam is not in the first plug, check the hole and surrounding sand before immediately moving on.

A clam shovel gives the digger more control over where the sand is removed and is popular with many experienced razor clam diggers.

Rather than driving the shovel directly through the center of a suspected clam, dig carefully alongside the show and remove sand in stages.

The goal is to reach the clam without damaging its shell.

Take controlled cuts of sand and be prepared for the clam to move deeper as you dig.

Do not assume the best digging area will stay in the same place throughout the entire opening.

As the tide recedes, additional sections of beach become exposed and new clam shows may appear closer to the water.

Pay attention to where other successful diggers are finding clams, but continue looking for your own shows instead of simply crowding one area.

Always remain aware of the incoming surf and changing ocean conditions.

Lighting can make subtle clam shows easier or harder to see.

During daylight digs, lower-angle sunlight may cast small shadows across depressions and irregularities in the sand.

During evening or nighttime digs, sweep a headlamp or flashlight across the surface at an angle instead of pointing the light only straight down.

Side lighting can make the texture of the beach easier to see and help small clam shows stand out.

If a razor clam opening continues after dark, bring a dependable headlamp and a second light as a backup.

Hands-free lighting makes it much easier to carry gear, operate a clam gun or shovel, and keep track of other people in your group.

Do not rely entirely on your phone as your only light source.

Before darkness arrives, take note of your beach access point, vehicle location, and any landmarks that will help you return safely.

Check the headlamp and lighting guide plans as you prepare your night-dig kit.

Washington coast weather can change quickly, and conditions on the open beach may feel much colder and windier than they do inland.

Dress in layers and bring clothing appropriate for wind, rain, cold temperatures, and wet sand.

Waterproof boots or waders can make a dig more comfortable, but always use gear appropriate for the conditions and remain cautious around moving water.

Check the coastal weather forecast before leaving home.

A heavily traveled section of beach is not necessarily finished.

Clam shows can be subtle, and other diggers may walk directly past clams without seeing them.

Take your time, scan the sand carefully, and trust what you have learned about identifying shows.

Moving a short distance away from the largest crowds can also make it easier to concentrate and work at your own pace.

• Confirm the dig is approved before traveling.
• Check the day's tide and weather.
• Arrive early enough to park and prepare.
• Learn to recognize several types of clam shows.
• Try stomping the sand when shows are difficult to see.
• Dig promptly after finding a good show.
• Follow productive beach as the tide moves.
• Bring a headlamp and backup light for evening digs.
• Dress for cold, wet, and windy coastal conditions.
• Stay aware of the surf and the people in your group.
• Know the current razor clam limit and follow WDFW regulations.