The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) announced 42 tentative days of coastal razor clam digs starting Oct. 3, reported earlier this week. The planned digs span from the onset of October through the end of December, offering numerous opportunities for seasonal harvesting at four different beaches including Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks, and Copalis.

WDFW coastal shellfish biologist Bryce Blumenthal said, "The 2024-25 recreational razor clam season will see similar digging opportunity to last season as long as marine toxin levels remain below closure levels," citing the health and sustainability of clam populations, particularly on southern coasts. However, the celebration of the season is contingent upon the marine toxin tests that must precede the digs, and these tests are critical because are important due to domoic acid a toxin that can be produced by marine algae can be harmful in high enough quantities, ensuring the safety of the clamming experience for all, as mentioned by WDFW official website.

Diggers will need to follow regulations closely, with a daily limit set at 15 clams per person and each individual's harvest kept separate, taken home exactly as they are found regardless of size or condition. One noteworthy closure remains in effect: Kalaloch beach continues to sit out the season due to lower than acceptable clam populations.

For successful digs, guidance points towards the twilight hours, suggesting digging between one and two hours before the low tide times listed, though "No digging is allowed before noon during digs when low tide occurs in the afternoon or evening," as stated by WDFW announcement. The department also reminds the public to stay considerate of the environment, particularly for the snowy plovers whose nesting grounds are a sensitive ecological area where the birds with their near-invisible nests require undisturbed space to thrive, especially at the designated zones along the beaches.

All visitors partaking in the dig aged 15 or above are required to possess an appropriate fishing license, available through the WDFW's licensing website or numerous state vendors.