Before You Harvest
- Check the shellfish safety map for beach closures and advisories on the day of harvest. Or you can call us at 360-236-3330 or the local county health department during weekday business hours.
- Buy a license from Department of Fish and Wildlife before harvesting on public tidelands.
- Follow Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations for seasons, size and harvest limits, and emergency rule updates when harvesting on public tidelands.
- Check NOAA's tide predictions to find the low tide times.
- Check with the National Weather Service to get the latest safety information about coastal storms, wind, waves, temperatures, and rain.
During the Harvest
- Look out for warning signs when you arrive at the beach.
- Identify your molluscan shellfish because some shellfish can have higher biotoxin levels.
- Fill in your holes after digging clams to help shellfish survive and prevent a tripping hazard for other people on the beach.
- Don't dig alone. Always have a buddy or go in groups and let others know when and where you are going.
- Always bring a light (headlamp, flashlight, or lantern) when digging at night.
- Be wise about the ocean. Always face the ocean when digging clams and be aware of your surroundings.
- Protect our waterways and shellfish beaches by using public toilets. Scoop, bag, and trash human waste if no toilets are available. Scoop, bag, and trash your pet's waste. Dispose of your trash in garbage cans or pack out your trash.