Clammers to hit beaches

Razor clam diggers can return to ocean beaches for four days of digging beginning today (Thursday).

State shellfish managers with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) approved a dig on evening low tides after marine toxin tests showed the clams are safe to eat.

The approved dig is for the following beaches, dates and low tides:

Feb. 20, Thursday, 4:54 pm 0.0 feet; Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis.

Feb. 21, Friday, 5:35 pm -0.1 feet; Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks.

Feb. 22, Saturday, 6:11 pm -0.2 feet; Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis.

Feb. 23, Sunday, 6:44 pm -0.1 feet; Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks.

No digging is allowed before noon for allowed digs, when low tide occurs in the evening.

“Diggers who brave the elements are being rewarded with quiet beaches and abundant clams,” said Dan Ayres, WDFW coastal shellfish manager. “Spring is on the horizon, but late winter can be a great time to avoid the crowds and take advantage of ongoing razor clam opportunities along the Washington coast.”

For a list of proposed razor clam digs on Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis and Mocrocks beaches through April, see the WDFW razor clam webpage.

WDFW authorizes each dig independently after getting the results of marine toxin testing.