Fall razor clam season opens Oct. 15

OLYMPIA -- The fall razor clam season will open Oct. 15 for some coastal beaches, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife announced today.

The following beaches will be open for p.m. tides only on Oct. 15, 17, 19 and 21: Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, Mocrocks and Kalaloch.

Twin Harbors will remain open through Nov. 19 on odd days and during p.m. tides only.

Long Beach, Twin Harbors and Mocrocks will reopen on Jan. 30 and 31 for p.m. tides only.

The seasons were set after public meetings were held in Long Beach, Westport, Tacoma and Ocean Shores. Additional clamming opportunities may be announced after the harvest through January is evaluated.

Department biologists said many people attending the meetings said they wanted:

• Several digging days close together during the fall

• An opportunity to dig for two days in a row during the winter months

• A spring digging season

Resident razor clam harvesters from age 15 to 69 are reminded they must purchase Shellfish/Seaweed licenses for $5. Seniors' licenses cost $3. Three consecutive day licenses cost $3. Non-resident licenses cost $20. A three-day non- resident license costs $5.

Harvesters may take 15 razor clams. The first 15 dug must be kept regardless of size or condition. Each digger's limit must be kept in a separate container.