Final razor clam dig of season proposed on four ocean beaches

OLYMPIA — The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has tentatively scheduled a morning razor clam dig in May at four ocean beaches.

If marine toxin tests show the clams are safe to eat, Long Beach and Twin Harbors will open for morning digs May 3-7, while Copalis and Mocrocks are scheduled to open May 4-5 only.

No digging will be allowed after noon on any beach. Kalaloch Beach will remain closed to harvest.

A review of the total harvest levels after the April opener showed there were enough clams remaining for a May opener, said Dan Ayres, WDFW coastal shellfish manager.

"With unseasonably cold and snowy weather, fewer diggers than we expected turned out, so the overall catch was less than anticipated," Ayres said. "We're pleased to offer folks another chance to get some clams in May and hopefully the weather will cooperate."

Ayres reminded diggers that this would likely be the final recreational razor clam opener before fall.

All diggers must have an applicable 2008-09 fishing license to dig razor clams on any beach. A license is required for anyone age 15 or older. Licenses can be purchased at http://fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov, by telephone (1-866-246-9453), or in person at more than 600 license vendors throughout the state. A list of vendors is available at http://wdfw.wa.gov/licensing/vendors/vendors.

Under WDFW rules, harvesters may take no more than 15 razor clams and must keep the first 15 taken, regardless of size or condition. Each digger's limit must be kept in a separate container.

Tentative dates and low tides are:

• Saturday, May 3, 5:27 a.m., -0.3 ft: Long Beach and Twin Harbors only
• Sunday, May 4, 6:16 a.m., -1.2 ft: Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis and Mocrocks
• Monday, May 5, 7:04 a.m., -1.9 ft: Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis and Mocrocks
• Tuesday, May 6, 7:51 a.m., -2.3 ft: Long Beach and Twin Harbors only
• Wednesday, May 7, 8:39 a.m., -2.4 ft: Long Beach and Twin Harbors only